THE RhoTech Downwind race took place this weekend in what was true downwind paddling conditions.
The 20-knot North Easterly wind with moderate surf conditions challenged everyone’s surf abilities from the beginning to the end.
The 21km race stated at Ansteys on the Bluff and finished at Toti Canoe Club but had its fair share of swimmers at the start. Nevertheless the safety team headed up by Neville Hazell played a superb role in ensuring everyone’s safety. Only two boats never made it past backline due to boat damage – we won’t mention any names.
The field of 37 athletes all came home to the usual Toti Canoe Club hospitality of good food, children’s jumping castle and great company. This would not be possible without Team Taylors, Team Joostes and Team Pontes putting in another top class day and Mike Chiazzari making sure everyone stayed as hydrated as possible.
It was great to see a good turnout of Toti paddlers and again the generous sponsorship from Rho Tech. A big thanks to both Stan and Mike and Lionel for all the help on the day.
Toti Canoe Club made a very easy decision in that all funds raised from the day’s activities would be donated to the Levi Lionheart Foundation as the Palframan family are close to everyone’s hearts. There was additional support from the paddlers who won prize money – they opted to donate it back to help Levi with his fight and the safety teams whose services were ‘on the house’. Well done to all, and the day delivered R6,900.
It’s not long until the 2015 Fish River Canoe Marathon. For those still looking to qualify, there is a sum total of five races left on the calendar. Either use these to get in some training or to get yourself a better seeding on day one.
August:
- 23rd Table Mountain Descent
- 29th Shaka Challenge
- September
- 6th Jock Claasens
- 13th Ngwenya
- 27th Nobby Nel
