Canoe-crazy kids battle it out at Emmarentia Dam

EMMARENTIA – Nothing but fun is had in the water at schools canoe race at Emmarentia Dam.

October 17, 2017

Nicholas Zaal 1 minute read

The U8 canoeists begin their race. Photo: Nicholas Zaal.

Waves were made when 80 young canoeists turned up to compete in the Gauteng Canoe Union Schools League race at Emmarentia Dam.

Dabulamanzi Canoe Club hosted the event, which was the 10th race out of 11 in the league this year, on a sunny, albeit windy, 14 October.

ALSO READ: There is always another adventure on the water for Dabulamanzi canoeist

Races ranged from a 500m beginners race and a 2.2km U8 event all the way to a 5.5km U18 race.

The canoeists are well supported by families and friends at Dabulamanzi Canoe Club. Photo: Nicholas Zaal.

Soweto Canoe and Recreation Club, Parktown High School for Girls and St David’s Marist Inanda fielded large teams and were very successful on the day, but other canoeists did their part for schools that do not have canoeing as an extra-mural activity, and some raced as individuals not affiliated with a school or club.

“It is always inspiring to see so many youngsters compete,” said Jason Brown, general manager of Dabulamanzi, and the coach for Parktown Girls.

“It bodes well for the sport, and they had fun, which is the most important thing for them at this age.”

ALSO READ: #ACTIVE – Dabulamanzi Canoe Club – JoburgToday

Matthew Eckhart finishes third in the U18 race for Northcliff High. Photo: Nicholas Zaal.

Sphiwe Mauhubu races for glory at the Gauteng Canoe Union School League race at Emmarentia Dam. Photo: Nicholas Zaal.

Nkhensani Makwakwa (11) was so excited to win at her first competitive race, the beginners’ race.

“The start was a little scary but I had confidence that I would win. I just focused on what I was doing and not on the waves,” said the Florida Lake Canoe Club youngster who has only been canoeing for four months.

U18 winner, Sibusiso Chwayi of Musi High School in Soweto, is fast climbing the South African rankings.

He came second in the U16 SA Canoe Marathon Championships last year, and while this race was just one among many on his calendar, it provided an opportunity to employ his racing tactics to overcome close rival Sinenhlanhla Ludidi who finished second.

“I knew I had to heat up after the third lap [out of five],” he said. “My aim to is to qualify for the World Canoe Marathon Championships in Portugal next year.”