Attention paddlers, entries are now open for the 2023 STIHL Umko Adventure Weekend which takes place on March 25 and 26.
Traditionally, the weekend hosted the STIHL Umko Canoe Marathon where paddlers seeking clean, fast flowing water, in a relatively untouched part of the country would travel to partake in the annual race. Event organiser, Kingfisher Canoe Club has added some new elements to this year’s event. The weekend now boasts trail running, kayak cross, rafting and live music.
“We realised that we needed to include events that appeal to the whole family as we would like the whole family to come into the valley for the weekend,” said race organiser, Scott Rogers.
“Offering only a paddling race attracts a small number of paddlers to the Umkomaas valley, so to increase participation we have had to adapt.”
“We are fortunate to be hosting the race at Nyala Pans River Camp where all events will start and finish. Having a central Race Village which also provides camping facilities, dorm accommodation and catered meals is unique to the weekend and we hope to attract people of all ages who love the outdoors.”
The boom in trail running has been recognised by the club and they will be offering three distances of 4km, 10km and 21km. The trail run is open to all members of the public with a sense of adventure. The early start of 07:00 on Saturday morning, allows for seconds of the paddlers to participate and still meet their paddlers at the finish of Day 1.
In addition to the trail running, there will be rafting and kayak cross on the river.
Rich Domleo, who runs Trailblazer Adventures, will be offering a one hour guided rafting trip which caters for young children and adults.
To top off the weekend, there will be live entertainment on the Saturday night made possible by Super Bock. All participants of the paddle, trail run and kayak cross will receive a complimentary Super Bock beer upon completion of the event.
More information can be found at https://umko.co.za
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
