IN 2012, the Evered-Hall family became the first-ever crew, spanning three generations to complete the Dusi Canoe Marathon, consisting of grandfather, Tony, ‘Ant’ (72), father, Mark (47) and his son, Josh (15). Now, they are about to make history again, this time by becoming the first three generations to compete in the Dusi marathon with the first grandfather, father and granddaughter combination. Ant and Mark will be joined by Sarah (16) who is set to compete in her first-ever Dusi Canoe Marathon.

The trio had planned to do the race last year, but the rules state that you have to be 15 by 1 January in order to compete, however last year, Sarah turned 15 on 9 February which meant she could not compete in the race.

The Grade 10 pupil at Durban North College said she is raring to go and said the year long wait will make the moment even more special.

“I was so looking forward to doing it last year and I was so disappointed, but in a way I’m glad that I’ve had a year to gain experience out on the water. We’ve done six qualifying races and the first two were tough, but I think we are ready for this year’s challenge. It’s means so much being able to do this with my grandfather and my dad. It’s part of a treasured memory chapter and it’s something I want to share with my children one day,” she said.

Tony, who is completing his fifteenth race, said this may be his final Dusi.  “I couldn’t find a better way to call time on my Dusi career with such special company. Who knows; I may get to paddle with my great-grandchildren,” he joked. It’s just a privilege to see the Dusi tradition going in my family, from my first in 1971 to now.

“I’ve paddled with both my sons, my grandson and now my granddaughter. What more could I ask for? My wife, Helen, has been the best seconder anyone could have asked for and I think her love and support is what motivates me when I’m out on the river.”

His son, Mark, echoed the family’s sentiments, and said he is looking forward to the start of the three day race.

“It’s just brilliant seeing my father share this special moment with his granddaughter. It’s an unbelievable feeling. I remember getting a picture of Sarah and Josh in my arms at the Dusi finish line in 2000 and it will be awesome having them by my side posing for a picture at the end of this race. It’s rare that you get two kids in a family who want the same thing,” Mark said.

The trio will paddling in the colours of Crusaders Canoe Club, and hope their journey can inspire other families to take up the Dusi challenge.