Race to the finish line

Paddlers flocked together at the Heidelberg Bridge for the long 40km trek to Dick Fourie Stadium in Three Rivers on 30 August. The successful event which was hosted by East Rand Kayak club saw paddlers finishing just before the Klip runs into the Vaal River.

Robindale resident, Simon Spooner was a force to be reckoned with when he helped Mark Jaspan to qualify for the Hansa Fish A grade marathon race which takes place in October. Spooner is no stranger to the A grade races – he has been paddling for years successfully, achieving a number of major A grade races.

Spooner took up a challenge to help qualify Jaspan for the upcoming race.

During the race, the pair had a few surprising elements which included the snapped rudder cable that might have resulted in them not being able to finish the race.

The sweep support team were, however, able to use connectors and repair the cable – despite the delays and a leaky boat after a shallow swim where rocks snagged slices in the boat, patched with duct tape – the pair managed to finish their challenging race in a time of 00:05:09:00. And Jaspan was able to confirm his first qualifying point for A grade river status .

“At least I know the other qualifying races can’t possibly be as difficult as this long one and from here on the races will be easier and more manageable,” said the joyful Jaspan.

However, Spooner was thrilled he could advance Jaspan to the finish line. “That’s what friends are for,” he said.