THE 22km Klip River Race on Sunday, August 23, from Meyerton Sportsgrounds to the Vaal River Junction in Three Rivers, was a clear indication that serious training for the river race season is in full swing.
The race, hosted by the Johannesburg Canoe Club based at Wemmer Pan, also featured Gavin Steyl from Alberton. Gavin, who frequently slips off to the river for his regular weekly adrenaline fix, partnered with Greg Smith also from the area to finish the race in fifth place overall, beaten by young Sowetan u.23 teams, as well as 16-year-old Alex Masina from their home club, Johannesburg Canoe Club.
The adventurous spirit of female paddlers, newer and learner paddlers and even first time river racers was evident as the paddlers rounded corners, avoided obstacles and bounced through wave trains and rapids.
Johannesburg Canoe Club members were out in full force as even the dormant paddlers were back in training before the 80km Fish River Canoe Marathon in October. There were a number of first time river racers hoping to earn enough points to qualify for the A-grade river race.
The clubs are proud of their integration and transformation programs which have seen the youth taking the top podium positions and making club members work hard to earn top finishes.
