Drak legend eager for 2022 challenge
The N3TC Drak Challenge canoe marathon takes place in Underberg on the weekend of January 29 and 30.
DEFENDING champion and seven-time winner of the N3TC Drak Challenge Canoe Marathon in partnership with FNB, Andy Birkett, said he is itching to get back onto the uMzimkhulu River to renew his relationship with the Southern Drakensberg paddling mecca.
Birkett, speaking on his way to Underberg for a week of training on the river, said every paddler was feeling the absence of paddling this popular race, last held 23 months ago after the 2021 edition was cancelled during the lockdown.
“I can’t wait to get back onto the river,” he gushed. “Everyone is super excited for the Drak. Coming two and a half weeks before the MyLife Dusi it is perfect for a hard race as part of the Dusi planning as well,” he said.
Birkett said that the key to success on a technical river like the uMzimkhulu lay in learning and absorbing a unique rhythm needed to be consistently quick and smooth on a river made up of many pool-drop rapids.
“That rhythm is so important, and I think not having paddled the river for so long is something everyone will notice,” he said.
“It is not just about finding the fastest line through a rapid. Sometimes you can choose a slower line that links better and allows you to keep up your boat speed by staying in the flowing water.
“It is hard to explain but it is definitely something you pick up and learn with time on the river. You can waste a lot of energy by not paying attention to the river and always looking and planning fifty metres ahead,” added the Team Euro Steel star.
Birkett, who now holds the record for the most victories in the race’s history, and said he was looking forward to being challenged by a full river.
The N3TC Drak Challenge canoe marathon takes place in Underberg on January 29 and 30. For more information, visit www.drakadventure.co.za.
