Archie finishes as top West Rand paddler in Mpumalanga
Completes race in four hours, 44 minutes.
Archie Moncho from the Florida Lake Canoe Club (FLCC) exceeded expectations after he completed an A+ rated Canoe Marathon race held on the Crocodile River as the top West Rand finisher.
His finishing time of four hours 44 minutes (20th) is a brave and amazing achievement.
The race that took place in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga is said to be one of the most difficult and technical river races in South Africa. Canoeists had to endure 20km per day, not to mention cope with fast-flowing water releases into the narrow river bed.
FLCC spokesperson, Jennie Dallas described the race as “fast furious” as boat breaks occur frequently with quick reflexes and superb river skills required from canoeists.
“This canoe race is growing in popularity as one of the most demanding and challenging races with the top finishers recognised by the Gauteng Canoe Union (GCU) as K1 river kings.
Jennie adds, “Despite canoeists eager to compete and take part in the event, another attraction is the hippos that can be seen taking a dip every now and then”.
There were also several other canoeists from FLCC to have completed the race successfully. Archie’s brother, Donald finished in 55th position, while Melusi Nxumalo from Seekers Christian High School as well as Siyabonga Twetwa, did their very first race on this river, finishing successfully in 37th and 42nd respectively.
Craig Smith, senior experienced adult in charge of the group of youths, was unable to stay with the strong young competing paddlers, finishing in 83rd position, while Bertie Baard withdrew from the race, due to the loss of his boat seat, to take photos.
