Dabs paddlers take on Crocodile River
Dabulamanzi Canoe Club paddlers came were top finishers at the TRAC Lowveld Croc Canoe Marathon.
Dabulamanzi Canoe Club (Dabs) paddlers were top finishers at the annual TRAC Lowveld Croc Canoe Marathon hosted by the Lowveld Canoe Club.
The top finishing paddler was Dabs’ Clinton Cook in a time of 01:59:00. Following him, 30 seconds later was the previous winner, Siseko Ntondini from Soweto Canoe and Recreation Club.
Robert Crighton finished third and first in the sub-veteran age category (02:05:00), followed by Jack de Swardt, who was first U23 paddler in 02:05:00. Alex Roberts came first in veteran age category (02:13:00) with Mark Garden clocking in at 02:24:00. Michael John Robb (second sub-veteran) followed with a time of 02:39:00.
Other Dabs paddlers included Rory Attridge and Chad Andrews who finished within three hours while Frank Geiger, Clive Evans, Regan Turnbull and Robert Levick who finished outside the three-hour mark.
This marathon is famous (or infamous) throughout the country as it has a reputation for being the most challenging river to paddle in the country. Although the rapids are not the biggest raced on, they are said to be by far the most technical.
Also read: Dabulamanzi Canoe Club hosts the Standard Bank Clean Water Challenge
The overhanging trees and wildlife add to this experience. Racing through the rough water and tight turns, one never knows what might be lying just ahead.
Although the organisers and local club members go to great lengths to clear the channels, the river is constantly changing levels. This year, there were 45 entrants and only 35 finishers, with quite a few paddlers damaging their equipment, resulting in leaking canoes and being unable to continue.
The race is a 30km route from Kwena Dam outflow to Terblanche Langoed and marshals are placed at strategic points along the river to assist any paddlers in trouble. The support of the Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency was appreciated as they ensured a river level that was perfect for the race – not too high to be dangerous, yet enough to be able to negotiate the rapids.
TRAC’s support over the years helps keep alive a race that is described as being unique, and its sporting history dates back to 1962. The organisation also supports a development initiative, sponsoring members of the Soweto Canoe and Recreation Club.
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Related article: Dabulamanzi Canoe Club hosts the Standard Bank Clean Water Challenge
