Masterful from paddler Willie Kunz again
There was fierce but friendly rivalry among the local paddlers.
WILLIE Kunz won the grand masters at the Lettie 50 Miler in Durban last weekend.
He was one of a number of South Coast paddlers that trekked up to Durban to take part in the big race, which was ultimately won by Hank McGregor in a sprint finish over Andy Birkett.
Initially, the big talking point was whether or not the promised water release of about 10 to 12 cumecs would be realised.
“We were pleasantly surprised to see a reasonable amount of water above Mission Rapid, where the race started on Saturday morning,” said Willie.
Tops in the South Coast batching were Shadrack Mkhize in F, followed by Dylan Bense and Willie in G.
Simon Heaver and Patrick McNeill were in H and Rudi Bense in J. Patrick’s son Rory was also batched in F.
There was heavy competition between Willie, the K2 of Simon and Patrick, and Rory the spring chicken.
The first rapid through Mission was mayhem and, while Willie miraculously negotiated the bunching and pushing through the first and second drop, Dylan was not so lucky.
Overall, the race was certainly a challenge, in particular the dreaded Ngumeni, where paddlers had to snake their way up, followed by the boat-dragging sprint down the other side.
“Gumtree, Tombi and Hippo rapids were a real challenge, particularly Hippo,” said Willie, who was glad to have emerged unscathed.
* South Coast Canoeing has moved from the old Inkwazi river resort/restaurant to the premises of the Port Shepstone Country Club.
The club has made a small building available adjoining the bowling green and the plan is to re-erect the racking in the new year.
Visiting paddlers are welcome to enjoy the excellent facilities.
However, before launching, make sure to contact Willie at 082 4112965 or Rudi Bense at 083 7569634 with regards to a few launching rules and procedures.
