Durban - It's all systems go for the 2017 FNB Dusi Canoe Marathon which is just a few weeks away.
Speaking at a media launch for the race on Thursday, Brett Smith, the general manager of the Natal Canoe Club which owns the rights to the Dusi, said the organisers were attending to the finer details.
“All the planning has been done. Everything from safety and security, medical logistics and water quality has been dealt with. We start organising the (next) Dusi Marathon immediately after the event, thereby making it a 364-day operation,” said Smith.
The organisers had learnt from logistical issues in previous years and had adapted their plans accordingly.
“This year we are looking at making traffic flow better for the spectators and other matters of safety. This is an
iconic event with an unbelievable appeal. It is the biggest in the canoeing world,” Smith said.
The more than five decades old marathon covers roughly 120km between Pietermaritzburg and Durban and takes place this year from February 16-18.
Tough test
It is expected to attract between 1600 and 2000 paddlers.
Female paddler Abby Solms, who along with her Czech partner Anna Koviskova blew the field away last year, said: “I am now keen to get started and put all the training to the test by starting the adventure down the valley,” she said.
Legendary Dusi paddler Andre Hawarden recently assisted the Duzi Umgeni Conservation Trust in removing some of the water hyacinth at the Gauging Weir on the uMngeni River ahead of the 2017 FNB Dusi Canoe Marathon.
Canoe marathon world champion Hank McGregor said he was getting excited as the event approached. “It is tough and if you have not done the training it is going to be even tougher on the body. I have been training really hard. I look forward to do the best I can,” he said.
Former champion Thulani Mbanjwa said he was aiming for a top-five finish.
“Andy Birkett and Sbonelo Zondi might be the best performers. My age will make it difficult for me to be at the front. I will be very happy to be in the top five,” he said.
Olympian Bridgitte Hartley is returning for her second Dusi since 2004.
“I want to learn to stay hydrated and not be dehydrated over three days. It is quite a tough race over these three days. Not staying hydrated will be problematic,” she said.
Multiple winner Andy Birkett said it was difficult to stick to a set strategy for the Dusi. “One can make mistakes or be stronger and weaker at some points of the race. One has to be flexible with a strategy and plan. I will start the race, see how I am feeling and push when I am feeling strong and conserve when I am not.”
All the paddlers said they hoped to get joy out of the race and continue to raise their profile and be able to take what they learn to the development structures.