Relay brings series to a close
Siyaphambili coordinator, Jacqui Boyd, said running this series has been an important part of the process of empowering the members of the Siyaphambili Club to administer it and host events that provide a source of income for the club.
Budding canoeist, Lungelo Shange, 16, from Umgababa, took part in the Indwe Risk Management Citadel Relay Race at the Point Waterfront on Sunday, October 17.
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Having recently competed in the Czech Republic, he finished second in the doubles relay where he had partnered with former Springbok winger Justin Swart. The other doubles in his team were former Surfski World Champion, Hayley Nixon, who paddled with Thubelihle Banda. The 5.1km course ran along the Durban Beachfront. Siyaphambili Surfski Club is a development canoe club that grooms paddlers from disadvantaged backgrounds. Many of the Siyaphambili paddlers were partnered with experienced mates, showcasing their enthusiasm, strength and their rapidly developing surfski skills in the relay race. Siyaphambili coordinator, Jacqui Boyd, said running this series has been an important part of the process of empowering the members of the Siyaphambili Club to administer it and host events that provide a source of income for the club.
“It has been tough hosting this series in October when weather conditions are often unpredictable, but the core surfski community has supported the three races and given the club a boost in so many ways,” she said.
Lungelo was happy with the results, but said things will never be the same after the recent death of Dean Chiazzari. Chiazzari, who was a member of the Toti Canoe Club, died of a suspected heart attack on Friday, October 15, while in Cradock for the Fish River Canoe Marathon. Lungelo does most of his training with the Toti Canoe Club which also helps him with the gear needed to take part in the sport.
“He was more than trainer, but a friend and his death has aff ected me. He would send me a weekly training schedule of what to do. His tips and advice helped me a lot in each and every event I participated in. Right now, I’m not sure how are things going to proceed,” said Lungelo.
He will next compete in the Pete Marlin Surfski Race in East London on October 30 and 31.
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