Thunder and lightning coupled with hail threatened to spoil last week’s annual Centurion canoe club 9-miler event around Rietvlei’s dam.

But the skies cleared and within the first few laps after the start of the race paddlers were removing beanies, scarves and gloves as they warmed up.

With no wind, the dam’s water was mirror smooth and the sun greeted the paddlers as they finished their tough competition, which annually kickstarts the serious season training as paddlers prepare for their major A-grade events.

These events take place after winter, when the rains arrive and the rivers fill up excitingly. The winners of this 9-miler event, which is traditionally a K2 (doubles) event was Luke Symons with James Godden from Emmarentia dam’s canoe club in a time of 1 hour 21 minutes.

These two were also the winners in the veteran age category. The first locals from the Rietvlei-based club were the third place winners, Gustav Radloff and Wally Fisher. They finished only seconds behind the first and second place participants.

Despite the dreary weather and predictions, the race attracted a good field of paddlers. They were probably unwilling to miss out on their annual kickstart event which is always popular, well supported, and with excellent hospitality from the local club at Rietvlei.