THE Lettie Paddle 50 Miler was held this weekend with a richly talented men’s and women’s field that took to the water to use the opportunity to get some much needed time on the uMsundusi and uMngeni Rivers ahead of next year’s Dusi Canoe Marathon.

For Durban North resident Danica Bartho who competed in this weekend’s event the 50 Miler carries significantly added incentive.

Bartho first founded the Lettie Paddle foundation in 2013 in honour of Nikki ‘Lettie’ Haynes’ brave fight against cancer.

In an effort to assist in Bartho’s cancer fund and awareness raising campaign, organisers of the 50 Miler, Umzimyathi Canoe Club, generously awarded Bartho the naming rights to this year’s race while all funds raised from the race’s successful charity batch bidders will also go to the Lettie Paddle programme.

“We can all make a difference in the fight against cancer and give people hope. The strength you get from knowing that others are behind you and believe in you, is something money can’t buy,” she said.

“Cancer doesn’t discriminate and everyone I’ve met either knows someone who’s battling cancer or has lost someone to cancer. Besides trying to raise money for the campaign, I also want to motivate and inspire people,” she said.

Anyone interested in making a donation can visit (www.lettiepaddle.co.za) or email Bartho on (danica@biweda.co.za).