WITH three K1 titles in the Dusi Canoe Marathon to her name, uMdloti resident Christie Mackenzie is one of the favourites to claim this year’s title.

The 25-year-old, who claimed her second back-to-back N3TC Drak Challenge title more than a week ago, is hoping to join an elite group of women should she win this year’s race.

Mackenzie, who won the 2019, 2021 and 2023 K1 titles, could potentially become only the third woman to win four Dusi K1 titles in a row, joining Marlene Lowenstein and Abby Ulansky who won four K1 titles.

Also read: Debut Dusi looms for Durban North resident

The Our Lady of Fatima old girl took some time away from paddling last year after suffering with chronic fatigue.

Speaking to Northglen News, she said she feels ‘undercooked’ going into this year’s race.

“I was forced to take a long break last year after competing at the World Marathon Champs in Croatia because of chronic fatigue. I feel like I’m undercooked in terms of training fitness. I started training hard again towards the end of December with my coach Matt Bouman and that seems to have paid off, winning the Drak Challenge. I’m feeling a bit more confident because of that result,” she said.

Mackenzie added that the allure of the Dusi is that the race is multi-faceted.

Also read: Andy Birkett not seeking Dusi records

“I’ve done every Dusi since 2016, except last year’s race. What keeps me coming back to compete is the race is a multi-faceted race. It encompasses everything, running, flatwater and big rapids, it has a bit of everything. It is really exciting for spectators and seconders, like your friends and family can get involved to support you in the race. My goal for this year’s Dusi is ideally to have a flawless race, not making mistakes or having any swims. Just maintaining my body to the best of my ability, focusing on myself and hoping to pick up my fourth title,” she said.

Mackenzie will be seconded on the route by her friend and training partner, Saskia Hockly.

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