Paddlers outdo runners in surfski event
For those running the race on the land, Ncedisani Phungula was the first runner to reach the finish line, just a minute ahead of fellow competitor Nkosiyethu Mhlongo.
The ever popular Scottburgh to Brighton race took place this weekend giving competitors from all around and out of the province an opportunity to compete in this iconic event to end off the annual Winter Surfski Series.
Starting at Scottburgh main beach, the race is run as a Sea-and-Sand Marathon as beach runners take on the paddlers for the ultimate bragging rights to reach Brighton beach in Bluff, Durban first.
Competitors were relieved to have relatively good weather and manageable surf conditions on race day although there was a bit of drama in the water at the Scottburgh starting line seeing several paddlers pushing their way through the surf and cutting through some troublesome waves.
What made the race even more memorable was the sardine run allowing paddlers an opportunity to spot shoals while out in the water and swim in close proximity to game fish and larger predators.
Several locals participated in this event such as mid-South Coast father and daughter team Elliot (Egg) and Angie Hall. This was the their first time competing together in a ski and they were elated to be part of such a renowned event.
East London paddlers Josh Fenn and Nikki Birkett scooped the first place titles in the men and ladies singles categories, and paddlers Brett Hadiaris and Hamish Lovemore took home the overall line honours at the end of the tough 46km race in the double paddlers category.
For those running the race on the land, Ncedisani Phungula was the first runner to reach the finish line, just a minute ahead of fellow competitor Nkosiyethu Mhlongo.
Unfortunately, the runners weren’t fast enough to claim the overall race title as they were defeated by the paddlers who brought their A-games this year.
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