For many paddlers, simply completing the Dusi Canoe Marathon is considered a major achievement.
For Sandton paddler Mohammed Patel, finishing the iconic race has become a long-standing personal challenge.
Patel recently completed his 17th successful finish in the 75th edition of the race, which covers about 120km over three days between Pietermaritzburg and Durban.
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The race is widely regarded as one of South Africa’s toughest endurance events, requiring paddlers to navigate rapids, dams, and multiple portage sections where they must carry their boats over hills and rough terrain.
Patel finished 11th in the K1 45 to 49 age category, and was the 12th overall K1 paddler with a total time of 12:40:00 across the three stages.
His journey in canoeing began more than two decades ago. “I started paddling at university in 2004 and entered my first Dusi in 2005.”
Although he has entered the race 19 times, he has completed 17 of them, a testament to the race’s difficulty. “What keeps bringing me back is the challenge. The Dusi tests you mentally and physically. It tests your strength, your endurance, and your ability to handle the river.”
Preparation for the event goes far beyond race day. “There are months of preparation involved, physical training, mental preparation, nutrition and making sure your equipment is properly tested and ready.”
He added that this year’s race was particularly tough during the long dam crossing. “The most difficult part for me was the dam section. It’s about 10km and I hit what we call a hidden brick wall, where the fatigue suddenly catches up with you.”
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Despite the event’s long history, Patel believes participation numbers have gradually declined. “It is a very tough sport. It takes time, commitment, and a lot of training. Not everyone who tries it continues because it’s physically demanding.”
He encourages newcomers to give canoeing a chance by joining local clubs. “At first it’s difficult and frustrating, but if you keep training and pushing through, it eventually becomes easier and more enjoyable.”
For Patel, the race remains one of the most rewarding challenges in sport.
“Every year the river conditions are different, so it never feels the same. You’re always nervous before the start, but when you finish there’s a real sense of achievement.”
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