Paddlers at Dabulamanzi Canoe Club (Dabs) got a taste of Dusi intensity on January 18 when the club hosted Dam Busters, a training event for Dusi 2026 that brought together athletes of all levels for a demanding build-up to South Africa’s most iconic canoe race.

Read more: Dabulamanzi Canoe Club members take on the Dusi

While the legendary Dusi is raced on the Msunduzi and uMngeni rivers, this session deliberately took place away from flowing water. According to Jennie Dallas of the Gauteng Canoe Union, the approach is both practical and essential. “The Dusi River Race is extremely demanding, with huge rapids, rocky sections and fast flow. It requires extensive preparation, but for paddlers based in Gauteng, access to suitable rivers is limited,” she explained. “With work, family commitments and even race cancellations due to flooding, it’s vital that paddlers have alternative training options.”

The day replicated key elements of the Dusi experience. Paddlers lined up for an 08:00 start, mirroring the traditional Pietermaritzburg atmosphere, before launching into sessions focused on fast paddling, efficient boat take-outs, running with canoes, and smooth re-entries onto the water. These portage skills are critical on the Dusi, where certain river sections are too dangerous to paddle.

A large and diverse group took part, including committed entrants, future hopefuls and paddlers simply looking to test themselves and improve fitness. Categories allowed some to complete the full paddle-and-run format, while others raced without portages as a stepping stone toward future participation.

Also read: Dabulamanzi Canoe Club training camp looks to develop canoe polo players

Technical coaching and conditioning form part of Dabs’ regular programme, with weekly time trials, technique sessions and fitness workouts leading up to the race. Dallas said off-water training is crucial. “Running fitness, learning how to carry the boat efficiently, and building confidence in a racing bunch all complement river training. Confident paddlers adapt quickly when they do get onto moving water.”

Educational talks for novices, often supported by videos and insights from experienced Dusi paddlers, further help athletes understand the demands of the race first conceived by Ian Player during World War II and completed in 1951.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many saying these training days are invaluable. “They help paddlers understand whether they’re ready, identify their strengths, and enjoy the journey together,” added Dallas.

With the January event just one of many sessions planned, Dabs continues to strengthen its role as a key development hub for Dusi 2026 hopefuls, combining preparation, community and passion for one of canoeing’s greatest challenges.

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