Team Titanic takes tube race title
This 'ship' made short work of rocks and rapids - and there wasn't an iceberg in sight.
‘TEAM Titanic’ made up of Shane Somerville and Tyler Whateley was crowned overall winner of the 36th annual Port Shepstone Bullslingers’ tube race last Saturday, with a time of 1hr35. “It was a really difficult race, because the wind was in our face the entire time,” said the tired, but elated duo.
Second place went to ‘Team Fearless Four’ in a time of 1:46, with third place going to ‘Team River Rats’ in a time of 1:51.
The best dressed team and winner of the women’s race was ‘Team Boobs on Tubes’ with a record time of 1:55.
Other top finishers were ‘Team Spuitpoep’ (winners in the men’s five to six team member category in a time of 1:37); ‘Team ITS’ (second place in the men’s five to six team member category in a time of 1:47); ‘Team Trevor’s Tyres’ (third place in the men’s five to six team member category in a time of 1:48); ‘Team Raging Rhinos’ (winners in the men’s seven to nine team member category in a time of 1:35); ‘, ‘Team Fast & Furious’ (second place in the men’s seven to nine team member category in a time of 1:46); ‘Team Riversmead 1′ (third place in the men’s seven to nine team member category in a time of 1:50).
The Mzimkhulu River was in fine form, with no shortage of water and a few hazardous areas for tubesters to negotiate.
Bullslingers’ assistant public relations officer, Shenice Chatzianestis said that this year the start went very smoothly, with officials on hand to ensure that those taking part were not too inebriated and were aware of all the rules.
“The day went off without incident or serious injury. Only a few minor bumps and bruises were reported, thanks largely to the able assistance of National Sea Rescue Institute team members, police and ambulance crews who were on hand to assist where necessary. Two people who became separated from their raft were airlifted back onto dry land,” she said.
Exiting the river was a final test of strength, with paddlers having to haul themselves out of deep mud and over large rocks, using a rope that was secured further up. A festive atmosphere prevailed at the finish and many rafters stayed until late into the night.
All in all, it was a well organised event which went off without a major hitch and kudos must go to the Bullslingers for its excellent efforts.
All the money raised by the tube race will be used by the Bullslingers to better the lives of children in need. For more photos visit click here
