Evered-Halls to make Dusi history again

‘THE rose among the thorns’. It’s a phrase thrown out in jest of course, but it has become familiar to Evered-Hall family as they paddle down the uMngeni river in preparation for this year’s Dusi Canoe Marathon. Two years ago the Durban North family etched their name into Dusi history becoming the first ever crew spanning three generations to compete in the three day race, consisting of grandfather Tony, ‘Ant’ (71), father Mark (46) and his son Josh (15).

The race now in it’s 64th year, will see the family make Dusi history yet again, this time with the first grandfather, father and granddaughter combination. Ant and Mark will be joined by Sarah (15) who is set to compete in her first ever Dusi Canoe Marathon.

The Grade 9 pupil at Durban North College also carves out another slice of history becoming the first pupil from the school to complete the Dusi.

Sarah also recently made the qualification for the Dusi as she turns 15 a week before the big race. The minimum age requirement for the marathon is 15 years old.

“I’m really excited and nervous at the same time. Canoeing has always been part of our family and being a second for so many years I’m looking forward to getting out on the river. My dad and grandfather’s experiences has helped guide me on the river especially negotiating rapids and portages.

“I’m getting to know the different sections of the Dusi now and it’s just a special moment to be part of this awesome family experience. When my brother Josh completed the race in the K3 in 2013, they finished in 14 hours and my aim is to beat that. And then I’m going to get him to clean my room for a week,” said a smiling Sarah.

Her father Mark, who will complete his 22nd Dusi echoed his daughters thoughts.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling. It’s rare that you get two kids in a family that want the same thing. It’s wonderful to be realising this dream of doing a three generation paddle with Sarah and my dad. Sarah’s proven she can hold her own, I’m so proud of how well she’s done so far,” Mark said.

Grandfather Ant who started his Dusi safari in 1971 said the trio’s preparation has been hampered by injuries in the lead up to the race.

“I have problems with my back and Sarah had the flu, so the preparations haven’t gone as expected. Having said that it’s not every day you get to row the Dusi with your son and granddaughter. It’s tremendous motivation and an ,” Ant said.

The 71-year-old is also in a privileged position having completed a Dusi with his sons, as well as his grandson, and now granddaughter. He also highlighted the importance of the seconds during the race.

“My family and my wife, Helen, keeps me going. She’s been the best second anyone could ask for. She just never gives up on me and motivates and rejuvenates me when I’m battling through a rough patch,” he said.

The trio will paddling in the colours of Crusaders Canoe Club, and hope their journey can inspire other families to take up the Dusi challenge.