Dabulamanzi Canoe Club based in Emmarentia hosted the Dusi taining event on 11 January.
More than 60 paddlers gathered for the challenging 20km training race and had an intense training weekend, aimed to prepare them for the popular Dusi event in February.
“The boys are excited and geared up – ready for the challenge,” said spokesperson of Gauteng Canoe Union Jennie Dallas
Greenside resident Loveday Zondi was the man of the moment when he finished in 01:40:00.
“It was exciting to win the race, I really enjoyed myself a lot,” said Zondi.
Having also won the previous Dusi training which took place on the East Rand, Zondi is arguably becoming Gauteng’s favourite.
“I love competing and the Dusi race is one of the biggest events. Preparing for it is amazing, however, I can’t say I am confident enough that I will win. But I am hoping to do well and be in the top 10,” he said.
Siseko Ntondini is one of the local talents who made their mark during training. He finished second, as first U23.
Paddlers will have an opportunity to train every weekend for the impending Dusi challenge.