The best Darlings in the whole Dam world

Let’s get to know the Dabs Darlings shall we?

Based at Dabulamanzi Canoe Club, the Darlings are a women’s paddling group whose main aim is to get as many women in the water.

Committee member and member of the canoe club Tarryn Willis said although the club had always had a women’s paddling group, it was only in the past year that a few more women had joined and the name was jokingly used.

“Elandrie Zietsman started using the name just before an event we hosted at the dam called the high-altitude Surfski race. This is the only inland Surfski race that simulates Surfski conditions by bringing in power boats and other watercrafts making waves,” explained Willis. She added it was on this day while on stand-up paddle boards that the Dabs Darlings came into being.

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For her, the Dabs Darlings is a group of women who come together in support of one another, either on or off the water. “We run, cycle, gym, have coffee and have dinner together. We are all about uplifting and supporting women in the community to be the best version of themselves.”

In Willis’ opinion, such collectives of women are important within canoe clubs and the community because, as she put it, climbing into a boat can be intimidating especially for women. “We are [women] of all ages, from all walks of life who have chosen to support each other. Women need other women in their lives who will support each other unconditionally,” she said.

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The Darlings have also competed in prestigious races and competitions, receiving medals in competitions such as the Dusi, Pete Marlin Surfski Race, Vaal Marathon, Liebensbergvlei Canoe Marathon and the Lions River Race in Midmar.

In October, Willis took part in her first Fish River Canoe Marathon and also in the South African Championships where she received a bronze medal with doubles partner Zietsman.

Outside of competitions and the strong camaraderie, the Darlings also aim to be change makers within the community through volunteering, donations and mentorship, all while being inspirations to each other. Dabs Darlings helps aid the Soweto Canoe and Recreation Club which is a youth development initiative that was founded in 2003, teaching them skills that will assist them with their studies and personal growth. There is also a feeding scheme in place.

“We hold a women’s day event at the dam once a year where we uplift the girls through paddling, motivations talks, and gift packs that include simple things such as sanitary pads,” said Willis

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As she sees it, the health benefits of canoeing are far-reaching as it aids with one’s cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength.
“Ultimately, self-love and care help both your physical and psychological well-being which improves your self-esteem.”

Should you want to be part of Dabs Darlings all you’d need to do is just arrive at the Emmarentia-based canoe club. You do not need paddling or boat experience as they will assist you. You can find the ladies at the club on Thursdays when they do time trials from about 17:45.

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