By Thathe Msimango
Andy Birkett lived up to favourite tag when dispatching his competitors to claim the Dusi Canoe Marathon title on Saturday morning at the Blue Lagoon in Durban.
The approximately 120 km three day Canoe annual event runs from Pietermaritzburg through Msunduzi River then joins Umgeni River down to the finish line.
Birkett clocked 7 hours 15 minutes 38 seconds combined in those three days to claim his 10 consecutive Dusi title and 13 titles overall from the past 14 races.
The 33-year-old Euro Steel paddler needs two titles to match a race record owned by late Greame Pope-Ellis of 15 titles.
In second place was Msawenkosi Mtolo, who carried hopes of black paddlers to win the race and in third position was youngster David Evans.
Speaking to Scrolla.africa at the finish line Birkett, who resides in KwaZulu-Natal midlands in Howick said he has never experienced such a gruelling Dusi race in his career.
“I’m happy I have managed to win the title this year. It was tough on the route this year. I think it’s the first time I have seen such a big water level like this. Twice I fell out of my boat especially in Day 2,” he highlighted
“This victory is special in its own way as I have faced obstacles on the route. I’m sure any paddler would tell you that conditions were not favourable for anyone. I’m glad though I have conquered the race.”
In the women’s race, Christine McKenzie was in a class of her own winning his third Dusi title.
Olympian bronze medalist Bridgette Hartley took a second spot while Jordan Peek rounded up a top three podium.
“I’m pleased to win another Dusi title. The race is one of the biggest in the South African canoeing calendar and to do well in it is joyful. I’m not done as I aim for more titles in the future.”
Picture above: Andy Birkett enters the finish line.
Image source: Thathe Msimango
