The annual Berg River Canoe Marathon concluded its four-day, 240km race from Paarl to Velddrif on the West Coast, amidst freezing temperatures.
Held from July 3 to 6, the race saw paddlers enduring gruelling conditions.
Founded in 1962 by 35 pioneers, the Berg River Canoe Marathon has grown into a major event.
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The inaugural race was a challenging feat with only 19 of the original participants completing the course.
This year, the marathon saw strong participation, including paddlers from the Victoria Lake Canoe Club.
Deon Vermaak, competing for the first time, finished the race in 23:26, placing sixth in the sub-master category (U50).
Vermaak described the race as tough but rewarding, highlighting the beauty of the course.
Renier Kruger, another club member, completed the marathon with times of 8:01, 7:02, and 8:43 over three days, totaling 23:48 and finishing 10th in the master age category (over 50).
Anthony Welsh finished in 24:17, securing the 11th spot in the master category.
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Robert Hamer completed the distance with daily times of 8:37, 7:16, and 9:11, finishing in 25:05 and placing seventh in the sub-master category.
Residents Graham Monteith and Colin Wilson also participated, with Monteith finishing 24th overall and first in the great grand master category, and Wilson placing 26th overall and second in the grand master category, completing the race in 16:24.
Chad Andrews from Canoe Concepts finished the marathon with daily times of 7:26, 4:52, and 7:06, totalling 19:24, and securing eighth place in the veteran age group and 50th overall.
The Berg River Canoe Marathon remains a test of endurance and skill, celebrated for its challenging nature and the scenic beauty of its route.
