Avid sportsman and Ballito local, Mark Perrow (55), tragically died on Sunday in an airplane crash while monitoring a canoe race on the Umkomaas River.

Canoeists sent out a call for help during the the Nyala Pans to St Elmos race after witnessing the light aircraft crash in the Umkomazi Valley, near Richmond.

SAPS and other search and rescue teams joined forces in the hope of locating and possibly rescuing the sole occupant of the four-seater Sling aircraft.

According to provincial Saps spokesperson, Captain Nqobile Gwala, members of the rescue teams paddled two kilometres down river where a joint operation centre was established while more rescue teams were flown in.

“Members had to gain access to the crash site along the cliff ledges and dense bush,” said Captain Gwala.

Around 8pm, rescue teams recovered the body of Perrow, who was the only occupant of the airplane.

His father-in-law, Brian Kurz of Zimbali, described him as an “absolutely unique character and genuine person”.

“Mark lived life to the fullest and was highly caring from a young age,” said Kurz.

Perrow, a well-known Olympic sprint canoeist and veteran record holder, is survived by his wife Belinda, a local psychologist, and two daughters, Kate and Alice.

Canoeing South Africa have also expressed their devastation at the loss of Perrow.

“Mark was one of the greatest paddlers the country has produced.

“He was part of the South African team at the Barcelona Olympics and dominated at every major SA river marathon race.

“Competitive but always hugely likeable, Mark was a family man and a paddling icon,” the organisation said.

His funeral will be held this Friday at Collisheen Esate.

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