Change A Life paddlers aim for Dusi greatness

MARTIN Dreyer’s FNB Change a Life Academy achieved stellar paddling results at the recent 50 Miler and Mfula to Inanda races and now look to claim top spots in the Dusi Canoe Marathon at the end of February.

The academy’s leading paddler, Khumbulani Nzimande, will team up with nine-time Dusi Canoe Marathon champion, Andy Birkett, for this year’s race. With two good wins already under their belt, the pair showed that they will be the K2 to beat.

“Andy and Khumbulani sit very nicely in the boat together,” said Martin Dreyer. “It’s fantastic to see someone of Andy’s amazing ability and pedigree taking on a raw super athlete in Khumbulani. He will likely make a huge impression on him. No matter what the Dusi result, the three months training together will be a life-changing experience for this youngster from the Valley of a Thousand Hills. Khumbulani is a work horse of note and will not take this opportunity lightly.”

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Fellow Change a Life stars, Banetse Nkhoesa and Msawenkosi Mtolo, finished in third place at the 50 Miler and this is a combination that Martin has high hopes as the duo prepares for the Dusi.

“I believe that Banetse and Msawenkosi are going to be very competitive and are the dark horse combination at this year’s Dusi,” said Martin. “They are such a well-balanced team, with an abundance of talent with regards to running and paddling. Their personalities suit each other, which is crucial when you spend so much time training together. Their result from 50 Miler, against a very strong field, will give them a lot of confidence going forward as they eye a top five at the Dusi.”

The top 15 of the 50 Miler was packed with FNB Change a Life paddlers.

“What is encouraging to see is that paddlers from the academy are sought after Dusi partners and it’s exciting that some have been invited by good paddlers outside of the academy.

“Kwandokhule Mzolo is paddling with Jack Edmonds and they will be going for a podium in the U18 category, while Zonele Nzuza will paddle with Trenton Lamble and they will be looking for a top 10 finish,” said Martin.

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Of all his Change a Life crews he has also singled out the young duo of Mvelo Ngidi and Thabani Msiya as strong contenders for a top 10, despite a tough weekend of racing recently.

“I don’t think Mvelo and Thabani’s result from 50 Miler reflects their true ability. They are hoping to do well in the U23 category but, being one of the most competitive age groups at the Dusi, they will have to have a flawless race,” added Martin.

The 2020 Dusi Canoe Marathon takes place from 27 to 29 February. Enter online at www.dusi.co.za.

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