The East Rand Kayak paddlers Jonathan Nel and Chris Rowe were among the myriad of competitors at the 12th High Altitude Surfski race at Emmarentia Dam on March 11.
Nel completed the 10km race in 55:48 while Rowe, a familiar face at the event, finished the single surfski in 01:12:48, finishing 36th overall.
The competition was won by local paddlers Michael Boulle and John Robb, from the Dabulamanzi Canoe Club, in the doubles surfski category. They finished their race in 42:33.
Andy Birkett and Matt Fenn, from KZN, were second while Wayne Jacobs and Ricci Talevi claimed third place.
Hank and Pippa McGregor were fourth, completing their race in 46:59, with Pippa the first lady across the finish line.
According to Gauteng Canoe Union PRO Jennie Dallas, the race is the only high altitude surfski competition in the world.
“It was a superb day of fun paddling for competitors of all ages and genders.
“Surfski is a popular sport at the coast, in the ocean waves. However 12 years ago, members decided they couldn’t always travel to the coast and it was imperative to find a way to enjoy its excitement on the highveld.
“They organised motorised boats and jet skis to provide the waves and choppy water and the numerous paddlers from around Gauteng thoroughly enjoy the exciting event,” said Dallas.
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