THE 2019 FNB Dusi Canoe Marathon was an unprecedented success for Martin Dreyer’s Change a Life Academy stars as his charges made up half of the top 30 finishers.
“I was blown away by the results of my team,” said academy founder, Martin Dreyer. “Each year they continue to raise the bar, and to have 15 paddlers in the top 30 is testament to the hard work they put in during the build up to the race.
“One of our top performers, Mthobisi Cele, had one of those off-day races and unfortunately finished in 28th position, while CAL race favourite, Banetse Nkhoesa, was ill before the race and did well to finish in 12th.
ALSO READ: Shongweni Dam: Open for business
“I did mention before the Dusi that Khumbulani Nzimande was the dark horse and great things could be expected of him. But he still surprised us all, with his phenomenal effort, finishing fourth overall. Truly an amazing achievement,” said Meyer.
Khumbulani raced in the 2018 K2 Dusi with Stewart Little, however the pair didn’t live up to their potential as Stewart fell ill during the race. Dreyer was excited to see how the youngster would fare against the best in the business in a K1.
“He was a rocket, ready to launch!” Dreyer said. “Crossing the finish line, Khumbulani was on cloud nine and now he puts himself in the front of the queue when it comes to K2 partners for next year!”
The Change a Life Academy’s Mpilo Zondi also claimed a spot in the top 10.
Mpilo had a nerve-wracking final day as multiple world marathon champion, Hank McGregor, was breathing down his neck. He still claimed tenth position overall.
Change A Life Academy results:
2. Sbonelo Khwela 8:11:55
4. Khumbulani Nzimande 8:32:21
10. Mpilo Zondi 8:43:35 (U23)2
12. Banetse Nkhoesa 8:52:22
13. Msawenkosi Mtolo 8:52:32 (U23)3
17. Richard Cele 9:07:46
18. Thabani Msiya 9:09:06 (U23)5
19. Lucas Mthalane 9:09:07
20. Sipho Canham 9:09:07
21. Nqobile Makhanya 9:12:07
22. Nhlanhla Cele 9:15:10
24. Mvelo Ngidi 9:16:09 (U23)6
27. Mthobisi Cele 9:21:02 (U23)7
28. Siboniso Shozi 9:21:03.06
29. Siyanda Gwamanda 9:21:03.46 (U23)8
30. Mzamo Zondi 9:21:04
Do you want to receive alerts regarding this and other Highway community news via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname (ONLY) to 060 532 5409.
You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have signed up for our news alerts you need to save the Highway Mail WhatsApp number as a contact to your phone, otherwise you will not receive our alerts
