Historic Dusi victory for Birkett

Andy Birkett (24) became the first person in the 64-year-old history of the Dusi Canoe Marathon to drop under the eight-hour mark, as he crossed the line in 7:55.35, five minutes and eleven seconds ahead of Euro Steel teammate, Lance Kime.

Sbonelo Khwela, a product of Martin Dreyer’s Computershare Change a Life Academy, maintained his third place position in a time of 8:03.47.

This was Birkett’s fifth race title, which saw him join race legends Peter Peacock, Harry Fisher and Gordy Rowe on five victories and sees him closing in fast on Martin Dreyer’s seven-time record. ‘Dusi King’ Graham Pope-Ellis still holds the record with 15 titles to his name.

“Today feels like the first time that I have won the Dusi; I am really stoked to be honest,” said Birkett. “My build-up wasn’t ideal coming into Dusi, but no build-up is, so I am just really happy that I was able to pull it off today.

“I’m not chasing records, I am not trying to overtake anyone for total number of wins. I just want to take each year as it comes as I really enjoy paddling and the Dusi is such a special race. There is a great build-up – the community really gets together for it and it’s great to be here with a victory.” he added.

Men’s Results:

1. Andy Birkett 7:55.35

2. Lance Kime 8:00.46

3. Sbonelo Khwela 8:03.47

4. Thulani Mbanjwa 8:15.02

5. Andrew Houston (U23) 8:31.27

More results can be found at www.dusi.co.za.