AS far as partnerships go in the canoeing world, Nikki Russell and Jenna Ward, are a relatively new one.However, that did not hinder the determined duo who were crowned K2 champs at the SA Flatwater Marathon Canoeing Championships. The result also meant they qualified for the Protea team for the world champs.

Ward said they were now focusing on the upcoming world champs.

“We are a relatively new partnership on the flatwater scene, which can be risky, but we were confident in our abilities to overcome that. We were really happy winning the champs and for the opportunity to represent our country. We couldn’t have asked for a better finish. We are just looking forward to performing in front of a home crowd. We have less than three weeks to go before the start of the champs and we know we have a tough journey ahead of us to be prepared, physically and mentally,” the Mount Edgecombe resident said.

Her words were echoed by Durban North resident, Russell.

“I know that Jenna and I have strong minds and that is what we need. We are really good friends and there’s no tension in the boat which is a huge plus. We know we we have to grind and work hard for the world champs. We hope to make the country and KZN proud,” she said.

The duo has also been selected for the World Surfski Champs in Hong Kong.

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