Contents:-

Message from the President

- SASCOC Press Release

All the International and National News 

- World Cup 2 in Poznan - Results from Marc Cloete

- SA Marathon moved to 27th and 28th June

        - Marathon Entry Form and Selection Document at www.canoesa.org.za on the Marathon page

- 2009 Hansa Powerade Fish - some questions from the organisers

- Aquatic Fanatic time for several weeks 

 The Weekends Past

- KZ - KZN Marathon Champs and Trials

         - McCarthy Toyota King of the Bay

- GA - K2 Marathon Trials at Parys

- WP - Paarl Skooltjie

  The Weekend Ahead

- WP - Goude Bridgetown

- GA  - Bond Choice Race 1

          - Lowveld Racing

- KZ  - Fezela Upper Umgeni Beginners Race

         - Hansa 5 Beaches

- EC - Border River Clean Up

Coming soon/Odds and Ends 

- EC - Nandos Knysna Lagoon Challenge

         - Border proficiency testing

         - Round the cans calendar at Nahoon

         - Areena Downwind in June in EL

- KZ - Safety warning from the Port Captain in Durban

         - Calendar highlights

         - History of canoeing

Smalls   

For this and much, much more visit your CSA website at www.canoesa.org.za . All Newsletters can be found on the website under the Newsletter button

This newsletter is sent once a week to all registered members of clubs affiliated to Canoeing South Africa - if you do not wish to receive it any longer please reply to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it asking to be removed from the list.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Canoeing South Africa

President: Merrill King

General Manager: Graham Bird This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   

Board:-

Dave Rawlinson

Steve Jourdan

Artwell Mhlophe

Mark Lynn - KZ

Naas Fischer - WP

Christo Horn  - GA

Rudi Witteveen - CD

Brendon Thompson - EC 

John Oliver - Ind.

Kevin Trodd - Ind.

Correspondence to:- General Manager Canoeing South Africa PBO 18/1/113/1305 P O Box 84571 Greenside 2034 Fax: +27 86 614 1921 e‐mail: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it web: www.canoesa.org.za

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Message from the President

Hello fellow paddlers

Once again good news abounds with the announcement of the OPEX (Operation Excellence)members by SASCOC at a Media briefing this morning.  Bridgette Hartley and Shaun Rubenstein have been placed in the highest level of this programme.  SASCOC selected only 18 athletes for this level and at present we haven’t any details of “what happens next” but the announcement of their names is the most amazing news. Basically all the athletes announced today have been identified as SASCOC's medal potentialists for London 2012 and they will be nurtured by SASCOC in every possible way. What a wonderful honour for these two young athletes to have their efforts so superbly rewarded – this is goosebump stuff I tell you!. ( The Full SASCOC Press release can be found on the CSA Website www.canoesa.org.za with a link from the Front page and the Sprints page)

Still with our elite athletes, Bridgette continued to add to her collection of medals this last weekend at the second World Cup, bagging 2 bronzes, whilst there was mixed fortunes for the rest of the SA team (see full story below) – but mention must be made of “Comeback Kid” Len Jenkins who finished 4^th in the 5000m race, proving that his natural talent just needs a top  up of training every now and again to ensure his world class performances.  Shot Len – great to see you back in your usual form!  

There is a saying “Out of the ashes will rise the Phoenix” (don’t know who said it but it goes something like that!)  Anyway it was the first thing that came to my mind when I arrived at the opening of the new Umzinyathi Club House on Friday.  In June last year the Umzinyathi Club house was “raised to the ground” (as they say in the classics) and even though it seemed a tragedy at the time, looking at what they have now, many people are giving thanks to however or whomever started the fire!

 In under a year, a team of members, headed by Kevin Trodd and Club Chairman Rob Savides, have built a “Phoenix”.   Not only is the club house in a beautiful setting, but it is functional, spacious and has a very warm and fuzzy feeling about it.

The opening function was attended by 300 people and guest speaker, Dr. Ian Player, entertained us in his light and thought provoking manner.  Always self depreciating, he joked about how one knows when one is getting old (when the air hostess welcomes Gary Players FATHER onto the plane!) – But he, as always, reminded us that the world is a sentient being and that even though we may want to achieve in every race we do, we need to also, for a second, REFLECT on the beauty of our world and what it gives to us.  He also reminded us that we, as paddlers, are the ears and eyes of the planet and it is our duty to keep fighting for the freedom of our rivers.  

So thank you to Rob and your committee, ably organized by Karen, for including me in your special evening and for making me feel so welcome.  I look forward to paddling a time trial on the first Wednesday I manage to prize myself away from sofa and fireplace!

With kindest regards

Merrill  

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

National and International News

Hartley Scoops Two More Bronze Medals

Poznan – The South African sprint canoeing team endured a tough weekend of high class racing this weekend at the Poland World Cup, winning two medals and gaining invaluable experience for the upcoming regattas.
 
Bridgitte Hartley’s two bronze medals in the K1 1000m and longer distance K1 5000m event were the only material gain for the team, but the exposure at the highest level will do wonders for the rest of the young squad as they work towards the London 2012 Olympic Games. The medals follow Hartley’s Gold and double Bronze at the Czech World Cup in Racice two weeks earlier.
 
Hartley won her K1 1000m heat and Semi-Final, securing her lane five for Sunday morning’s A-Final. Although racing to her fastest time of the weekend, she was narrowly beaten by Great Britain’s Rachel Cawthorn and Denmark’s Henriette Engel-Hansen. The Bronze medal confirms Hartley’s position as one of the world’s top 1000m women paddlers, and must make Poland a favourite venue for her, following a K1 1000m gold at last year’s Poland World Cup.
 
In the Olympic distance K1 500m Semi-Final, Hartley took second place to again make it through to the A-Final, where she crossed the line in seventh place. German Olympic K1 500m bronze medallist and K4 500m gold medallist Katrin Wagner-Augustin won the race.
 
For most of the squad, the racing was a big step up from the more familiar national regattas, with each event packed with Olympic medallists, World Champions and multiple World Cup winners, and Hartley and Shaun Rubenstein, as the most experienced members, were the best performers. Still, Rubenstein admitted to being disappointed with his results. “I had a disaster 1000m K1 Semi-Final and only made it through to the C-final. I won the C-final fairly easily but I was very disappointed that I never performed better and never made the A-final.” The K1 500m was kinder to the Gauteng star, as he qualified for the A-Final and finished in seventh place. France’s Sebastian Jouve won the tight race ahead of Canada’s world record holder Adam van Koeverden.
 
Carol Joyce’s sixth place in the K1 1000m saw her through to the B-Final, while Cam Schoeman and Stu Waterworth’s fledgling K2 partnership will take heart from a fifth place in the K2 500m Semi-Finals, and the experience of a C-Final where they placed third.
 
The 5000m races on Sunday afternoon were a welcome addition to the regatta, and are not usually included in the weekend racing. Hartley was able to stay within striking distance of the front women paddlers, but she was unable to draw on her usually strong reserves for the final sprint and ended in third to win bronze. In the men’s race, Len Jenkins will be very pleased with his fourth place overall – one place ahead of national champion Rubenstein, who spent too much energy playing catch-up after been squeezed off the front bunch early on.
 
Sponsorship from the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund now allows the squad to stay in Europe and race in the third and final World Cup of the year in the Hungarian city of Szeged starting on the 5th of June. The paddlers will stay and train in Budapest for the next two weeks.
 

Selected A-Final Results:

Men K1 500m

1.     Sebastian Jouce (FRA) 1:40.299

2.     Adam van Koeverden (CAN) 1:40.963

3.     Max Hoff (GER) 1:41.335

7. Shaun Rubenstein (RSA)  1:43.343
 
Women K1 500m

1.     Katrin Wagner-Augustin (GER) 1:54.444

2.     Rachel Cawthorn (GBR) 1:55.652

3.     Ana Roxana Lehaci (AUT) 1:55.732

7. Bridgitte Hartley (RSA) 1:57.260
 
Women K1 1000m

1.     Rachel Cawthorn (GBR) 3:55.570

2.     Henriette Engel-Hansen (DEN) 3:56.222

3.     Bridgitte Hartley (RSA) 3:38.526

Men K1 5000m

1.     Erik Veras Larsen (NOR) 18:00.04

2.     Max Hoff ( GER) 18:02.07

3.     Cyril Carre (FRA) 18:33.31

4.     Len Jenkins (RSA) 18:35.31

5.     Shaun Rubenstein (RSA) 18:42.16

Women K1 5000m

1.     Lani Belcher (GBR) 20:38.16

2.     Louisa Sawers (GBR) 20:39.45

3.     Bridgitte Hartley (RSA) 20:46.65

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The SA MARATHON has been moved to 27th and 28th June at Plet9 one week later) to avoid a clash with the sprint tour to Bochum

The Selection Document and the Entry form can be found on the Marathon page at www.canoesa.org.za

Once again we have had to move the SA Marathon Champs to a different date. This was done to fall in line with the Bochum sprint regatta who changed there dates.

We obviously want our best athletes at all the events, hence the change. Most of our top marathoners are from a sprint back ground, and we want all our top competitors to take part in the marathon trials.

SA Marathons will now be held on the weekend of 27^th and 28^th June 2009 on the Keurbooms River in Plettenberg Bay. This date is now final and will not be changed again. All paddlers can now book air tickets and accommodation for that weekend.

NEW CLASS AT WORLD MARATHON CHAMPS (U23)

ICF has announced that this year, there will be a new U23 class for K1 men, K1 ladies and C1 men. There is also a new class for C2 junior men.

U/23 Marathon class –  The U/23 class races one lap less than the seniors at World Marathon championships. U/23 class to race in the senior race at South African Marathon Championships, with a timed finish at the end of the necessary lap for the U/23 class. Should the U/23 wish to be consider for the Senior Marathon team, they will need to complete the senior race. Should they not qualify for the senior team, will then be considered for the U/23 team.

The laps at SA Champs and World Champs are 4.3kms long. Paddlers will portage on every lap, between 100m and 150m. The different classes will race as follows:

Junior Ladies K1 and K2, and Junior men C1 and C2  -  4 laps and 4 portages

U23 Women K1, U23 Men C1, Junior Men K1 and K2 and Masters K1 and K2  -  5 laps and 5 portages

U23 Men K1, Senior Ladies K1 and K2, Senior Men C1 and C2  -  6 laps and six portages

Senior Men K1 and K2  -  7 laps and 7 portages.

Regards

Malcolm Stothard

Kayak Racing & Set Paddles

Tel:011 452-1724

Fax:011 609-7671

Cell:0824467984

www.kayakracing.co.za

www.setpaddles.co.za

0000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

Hansa Powerade FISH Questions

The organising committee of the Hansa Powerade Fish has started finalizing plans for the 2009 marathon. We would like feedback from paddlers on two aspects of the marathon.

Firstly the construction of a double chute over Collett Weir, the first weir after a long portage on Day 1 directly after the start on the dam. The first proposed chute is to have a drop of 3m onto a rock shelf protected by a wall on either side and this leading to a second smooth-floored chute into the river. The reason for the second chute being smooth is to accommodate swimmers from the first chute to be swept downstream over the second chute safely. This obstacle will be well-planned and constructed by a recognised contractor, however it should be practised prior to the event.

Secondly, we have been made painfully aware of horrific injuries sustained by paddlers not “ducking” low enough under Toastrack Bridge and we have decided to strongly recommend that paddlers wear helmets on Day 1. At this stage helmets are not compulsory, however, this being a marathon organised by paddlers for paddlers we would like to receive your input before further decisions are made. We must be aware that the safety of all paddlers is paramount to all concerned and it is along these lines that we as an organising committee have to base our decision making.

Replies to  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Aquatic Fanatic Times for a while

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Weekend Past

KZ

KZN Marathon Championships and Trials

The Province's flat-water marathon paddlers were back at Nagle Dam again this Saturday for the K2 section of the KZN Marathon Championships. The event also served as the K2 trial for the KZN team to attend the SA Championships on the Keurbooms river near Pletenberg Bay at the end of June.

In line with the international trends in this discipline of canoeing the course for Saturday consisted of multiple laps of 4 km each with a 100m portage at the end of each lap. The final portage was followed by a 1500m dash for the finish line. The various age-groups competed over a different numbers of laps from the 3 laps of the U14's through to the 7 laps of the Senior Men. Racing began at 09h00 from the main picnic site at Nagle Dam with the Junior and Master Classes. Once their races were complete the Men and Women, Senior and U23 raced from 11h30 onwards.

This weekend saw a disapointing turnout for the K2's, to the extent that the Senior Men's and Women's races did not have the minimum of three boats required for a viable class and will have to be re-run later in the year.

Martin Van den Bergh and Stuart MacLaren had no real competition in the Boys race winning by over 10 minutes from U16's Siboniso Shozi and Mmeli Cele with the next U18 boat in third place, Mzamo Zondi and Kwanda Mhlophe. Three boats contested the Girls race with Kerry Segal and Lauren Felgate winning from Jenna Starr and Lindsay Davis with Courtney MacKenzie and Emma Emanuel in third place.

As in the K1 event, the Master Classes were well contested with 11 boats taking part. Veterans, Wayne Wilson and Travis Wilkinson - Kingfisher's new Chairman by the way - were tops ahead of Sub-Vets, Marc Germiquet and Warren Valentine with the leading Masters, Peter Duncan and Linton Hope in third place.

K2 Results

Boys U16/18 - 5 laps

1. Martin van den Bergh and Stuart MacLaren DAB-MIC 1:37:10, 2. Siboniso Shozi and Mmeli Cele(U16) LEM 1:48:30, 3. Kawnda Mhlophe and Mzamo Zondi LEM 1:48:47

Girls U16/18 - 4 laps

1. Kerry Segal and Lauren Felgate(U16) AMA 1:30:14, 2. Lindsay Davis and Jenna Starr TWC-NAT 1:31:05, 3. Courtney MacKenzie and Emma Emanuel(U16) TWC 1:44:27

1st U14 - 3 laps, Mthobisi Cele and Ndomiso Ngcobo LEM1:18:31

Master Classes - 5 laps

1st SV - Warren Valentine and Marc Germiquet NAT-UMZ 1:40:53

1st V - Wayne Wilson and Travis Wilkinson KIN 1:37:30

1st SM - Glen Hilliar and Brian Cordes KIN-UMZ 1:47:20

1st M - Peter Duncan and Linton Hope STE-MSL 1:42:57

1st SGM - Nigel Briggs and Tim Cornish NAT 1:44:02

1st GM - Roy Swingewood and Willem Deysel KIN 2:03:00

The KZN Team is as follows

Guppys - James Horner NAT

Boys U14 - Tyron Pontes AMA

Girls U14 - Courtney MacKenzie

Boys U16 - Donovan Wewege MAR, Paulus Shozi LEM, Mmeli Cele LEM

Girls U16 - Emma Horner NAT, Jenna Ward AMA, Lauren Felgate AMA, Kerry Segal AMA

Boys U18 - Stuart MacLaren MIC

Girls U18 - Lindsay Davis TWC, Jenna Starr EPW

Men U23 - Tiaan de Klerk NAT, Ryan Aikins GEO

Women - Abie Adie

Men - Lucas Mthalane

SV - Warren Valentine NAT, Marc Germiquet UMZ

V Men - Travis Wilkinson KIN, Kevin Murray NAT, Wayne Wilson KIN

V Women - Mandy Austen Smith NAT

SM - Eric Hildebrandt KIN

M - Linton Hope MSL, Matt Carlisle KIN, Peter Duncan STE

SGM - Tim Cornish NAT, Nigel Briggs NAT(Capt)

GM - Len Jenkins

Manager - Gary Clarke

John Oliver

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hat tricks for Bouman and Eray in the McCarthy Toyota King of the Bay race
Durban - Matt Bouman secured a hat-trick of wins in of the Discovery Men's Health Surf Ski Series with a dramatic win in the McCarthy Toyota King of the Bay surf ski race, after he took an early break out of the harbour on a boat wave and never looked back.

Bouman, together with Eastern cape star Richard von Wildemann and Barry Lewin broke away from the pack once out of the harbour, and once Bouman took the gap on the boat wave it was up to Lewin and von Wildemann to fight it out for second and third place. However, even though Bouman raced alone he said that knowing Lewin and von Wildemann were racing behind kept him focused. "They kept me honest," Bouman said good humouredly.

Bouman had been hoping to race against Hank McGregor on this leg, but said that he understood McGregor taking a breather after winning the Molokai race in Hawaii.
The woman's single race followed a very similar pattern to that of the men's with Michèle Eray of Plettenberg Bay well ahead and Michelle Eder and Donna Winter fighting in out for second and third places.

"I just missed the back of big group so I ended up pulling most of the way," says a smiley Michèle Eray. After about three or four kilometres I did a surge and lost the others. "I took a shallow line and that worked well for me and after the turn I knew it was only seven kilometres so I just put my head down and went for it."

"My housemate Warren was paddling just ahead of me and I was determined to catch him," she laughs and nods with a satisfied affirmative when asked if she succeeded in her mission of catching him. "I really enjoy the longer distance," says Eray. "I think 20 kilometres is my ideal race...and I thought I was a sprinter?"

Amanzimtoti star Michelle Eder had a tougher time and gutsed it out to a nail biting second place despite a cramp in her neck. "The race was very tough," she smiled bravely still in obvious pain. "I took the long way round the red can, so Donna (Winter) managed to catch up to me."

The 22km McCarthy Toyota King of the Bay surf ski race is a favourite with locals and national paddlers alike, as it is the one time in the year that paddlers are allowed to paddle out of the Durban harbour mouth. Backmarkers during the race had to jostle with massive container ship that exited the harbour at the same time as they6 were.
Richard von Wildemann who hails from Port Eilzabeth was one of a number of national paddlers who flew into Durban for this particular race. "Durban is definitely the capital of surf skiing," says von Wildemann, "the conditions are awesome and the people are great. This is just a fantastic race!"

Von Wildemann left the harbour mouth in a four boat pack that included Clinton Bollard, who rather dramatically raced the ski race in a K1 canoe, and despite his decision to take on the short course, he ran a considerable risk paddling the open kayak out through the harbour mouth and around to the finish at Ushaka Beach.
As the morning progressed so too did the swell and the wind making things tougher for the stragglers fighting the elements.

DISCOVERY MEN'S HEALTH SURF SKI SERIES RACE THREE
McCarthy Toyota King of the Bay Race
1.Matthew Bouman 1:37:59
2.Barry Lewin 1:38:53
3.Richard von Wildemann 1:39:24
4.Grant van der Walt 1:41:56
5.Herman Chalupsky 1:42:50
6.Andre Pohl 1:42:55
7.Oscar Chalupsky 1:45:17
8.Jeffery Smith 1:45:32
9.Oliver Burn 1:46:06
10.Mark Mulder 1:46:38

Women
1.Michèle Eray 1:51:43
2.Michelle Eder 1:55:57
3.Donna Winter 1:56:51
4.Danica Vorster 2:05:42
5.Angelique Mulder 2:13:59

Double ski
1.Warren Jacobs/Zoog Haynes 1:36:23
2.Waine Wilson/Warren Valentine 1:36:45
3.Marc Germiquet/Jaysen Golding 1:38:42
4.Mark Lewin/Lynton Hope 1:41:59 (First Masters)
5.Nigel Stevens/Michael Stevens 1:42:12
6.Gavin Searle/Quinton Rutherford 1:42:47
7.Anton Fouche/Greg Frizelle 1:44:26
8.Gary Clarke/Richard Philps 1:44:42
9. Mike Nichol/Ted Waldburger 1:45:15
10. Guy McCormack/Kelvin McCormack 1:45:36

Mixed Double ski
1.Stretch Struwig/Colleen Struwig 1:48:18
2.Kelly Howe/Konrad Karcz 1:54:57
3.Dave Herridge/Debra Barker 1:56:20

Female Double ski
1.Natalie Veckranges/Nicola Irvine 1:54:15
2.Cara Bush/Penny Bush 2:08:53

CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
31 May Hansa Five Beach, Umkomaas to Toti
7 June Discovery Winklespruit race, Winklespruit
14 June HiQ Marine race, Durban
202/1 June Scottburgh Winter's Solstice Festival
SAT - Trail Run - 5, 10 or 24km
SAT - MTB Race - 10, 24 or 40km
SUN - SURFSKI - Cyclelab Scottburgh Classis 7or15km
28 June CMH Toyota Pirates Umhlanga Pirates, Durban
5 July KZN Awnings Downwind, Amanzimtoti
11 July Durban Surf Ski World Cup, Durban
18 July Men’s Health Scottburgh to Brighton

GA

GA K2 Marathon Trials

A superb day of excellent racing, great music, excellent hospitality and most delicious food – the supporters and racers alike were spoiled this weekend at the first major event hosted by the newly re-formed Likkewaan Club on Sunday 24 May,  on the banks of the Vaal River in Parys as they did a tremendous job of hosting the K2 Marathon Trials.  The team selected from the results of this trial will be invited to participate in the SA Marathon event which will take place in Plettenberg Bay 27 and 28 June on the Keurbooms River.

The event consisted of 4 races :  The 26km event was for Seniors, under 18’s and Sub vets and this event was won by Under 18 canoeists Brandon van der Walt and Murray Burgess of Dabs,  who also won the Under 18 race in a time of 1:50:50 despite boat admin problems with the rudder at the start.  Second place winners were Alex Roberts and Gavin Payne (DAB/ERK) in 1:50:55 and the third place position was taken by Jacques Theron with Jen Hodson from Soweto Canoe Club in time of 1:51.   The Sub Vet winners were Nicholas Warren and Andrew Cooper from Dabs in time of 1:54.

The 20 km race was for Senior ladies and Under 18 Girls as well as Vets, masters and Sub Masters and the overall race was won by Malcolm Stothard and Servaas Fick from Dabs in time of 1:33:59 winning the Vet category,  with split seconds between them and Theo Smit and Ronald Pronk from Centurion Canoe Club, both SM.  Bruce Banfield from Florida lake canoe club brought up third postiion with partner Mark Shuter from Dabulamanzi club in time of 1:41.  The Sub Grand Master category was won by John Evans from FLCC with partner Peter Rossouw from JCC in time of 1:47,  while the top masters were George Meiring and Gavin Myburgh from FLCC – time 1:50.

Jenna Ward from Natal, with partner Kerry Malan from Dabs won the ladies race in 1:47:49 securing their place in the team selection for Marathon champs.

The Under 14’s race was 14 kms and was won by Wilner de Swardt from Dabs with partner Dugan Afonso of FLCC in 1:21 followed by the ladies junior Under 14 girls team of Morgan Ziervogel from JCC with kerry Shuter from Dabs in 1:29.

A guppy challenge was also held and was well supported and much enjoyed by the participants.

Teams selected for SA Marathon champs will be posted on GP Kayak later this week and we wish all competitors in all age categories successful achievements.

Jennie Dallas

Tel  011 463 1173

Fax 086 503 1126

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WC

Paarl Skooltjie

The Du Toit Caterers/Rietvallei Wines sponsored W.C.C.U. canoe race on Saturday 23rd May, 2009, was the 23 kilometre section of the Berg River from Paarl (Paarl Canoe Club, Market Street bridge) to the low level bridge at Skooltjie, just beyond Wellington. 

With the river at a very low level, the conditions were always going to favour the 'lightweight' paddlers and so it was that Lance King (Milnerton Canoe Club), blasted away from the start, was first over the compulsory portage of the Market Street weir, and was never headed for the entire 23 km. section of the river covered in the race. Early on, i.e. immediately before and after the weir, P-W Basson (Paarl Canoe Club) gave chase and at one stage was on King's slip, but approximately 400m after the weir, he fell off the pace (at the first bridge after the weir), leaving King to race alone until the end, where he came in a full 2 minutes before Solomon and White in 2nd and 3rd places respectively. Giving chase. but knowing that catching the lightweight King would be an impossible task unless something went seriously wrong with his canoe, were Graham Solomon and Gavin King (both Peninsula CC), Helmut Schloms (Paarl CC) and Pieter-Willem Basson (Paarl CC), who were to finish in that order, 2nd to 4th overall.

In the Women's section, there was no stopping Stellenbosch CC's Robyn Kime, who paddled away from her opposition (Bianca Beavitt - Milnerton and Jemma Hofmeyer - Pens) to come home in 16th place overall and nearly 10 minutes ahead of the Beavitt in 2nd, with Hofmeyer a further 8 minutes back.

Both King and Kime also won the new age category - the U23 division.

Other excellent showings were those of the juniors, Ivan Kruger (Milnerton - U18) and Diviano Pietersen (Paarl - U16), who finished in 19th and 20th positions overall (respectively)

With the low water levels, paddlers had to put up with very with hard paddling (shallow water creates greater friction and therefore harder paddling), minimal rapids, plenty of obstacles in the likes of trees lying across the river, and without any flow to either help, or put at risk, paddlers who inadvertently capsized. As such, it was an excellent opening President's trophy river race which has started 'The Berg' season, as it also gave the opportunity for a good number of new paddlers the chance to experience a relatively benign piece of water which will build confidence for the season ahead.

With next weeks race being 28 km in length, from Gouda Bridge to Bridgetown, where the river is wider, deeper and with more opportunities to really race and overtake plus there being predictions of rain before then, paddlers are hoping for higher levels to 'even out the playing fields'.

Results of the Du Toit Caterers/Rietvallei Wines 23 km Paarl to Skooltjie, W.C.C.U. canoe race, Saturday 23rd May, 2009.

Top 10.

1. Lance King - Milnerton - 1 hour 34 minutes 13 seconds.

2. Graeme Solomon - Peninsula - 1:36:16. 

3. Gavin White  - Pens - 1:36:17

4. Heinrich Schloms - Paarl - 1:37:35

5. P-W Basson - Paarl -  1:41:50

6. Eugene van der Westhuizen - Milnerton - 1:44:22

7. Ernest van Riet - Stel - 1:44:24

8. Dane Sanvido - Stel - 1:46:21

9. Cornelius Human -Mil - 1:46:22

10. Chris de Waal - Mil - 1:47:03

Senior Men

1. Lance King - Mil - 1:34:13

2. Graeme Solomon - Pens - 1:36:16

3. Gavin White - Pens - 1:36:17

Senior Women

1. Robyn Kime - Stel - 1:50:02

2. Bianca Beavitt - Mil - 1:59:10

3. Jemma Hofmeyer - Pens - 2:07:45

Juniors (U18 yrs)

1. Ivan Kruger - Mil - 1:52:03

2. Diviano Pietersen - Paarl - 1:53:30

3. Joseph Williams - Paarl - 1:53:56

Novices

1. Michael-Lee Farringer - Bridgehouse - 1:58:52

2. Burger Coetzee - KSK -  2:04:02

3. Daniel Buys - Bridgehouse - 2:04:05 

Sub Veterans (35 - 39 yrs)

1. Graeme Solomon - Pens -  1:36:16

2. Greg van Heerden Mil - 1:47:03

3. Frohaan Visser -- SSW - 1:48:37

Veterans (40 - 44 yrs)

1. Rob Hart - Pens - 1:50:00

2. Rob Meintjies - LAN - 1:59:05

3. Ommund Sivertsen - Pens - 2:03:59

Sub Masters (45 - 49 yrs)

1. Eugene van der Westhuizen - Mil - 1:44:22

2. Chris de Waal - Mil - 1:46:22

3. Anton Truter - Mil - 1:53:54

Masters (50 - 54 yrs)

1. Paul Lange - Pens - 1:53:38

2. Shaun Butler - Pens -  1:53:44

3. Ian Glass - Pens - 1:58:51

Sub Grandmasters (55 - 59 yrs)  

1. Rob MacLean -Pens - 1:54:55

2. Andre' Rabie - Paarl - 2:02:43

3. Anthony Penderis - Temp - 2:08:37

Grandmasters (60 yrs plus)

1. Tienie van Schoor - Stel - 2:15:13

2. Giel van Deventer - Paarl 

3. Johan van Rooyen - Stel

Regards,

Rob MacLean

Media Liaison - W.C.C.U.

082 496 8957 

                000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

THE WEEKEND AHEAD

WP

GOUDA BRIDGETOWN

This Saturday’s W.C.C.U. canoe race is arguably that which is upon the best section of the Berg River that is raced by paddlers of the Union and this is because of several factors. Not being close to any urban development, the river here is far less polluted than it is in the Paarl/Wellington region; it offers not only a good distance over which to race (28km), but on water which tends to be deep, often wide (for slip riding) and has certain challenges that paddlers need to be aware of and approach with caution. This is also an ideal race to do for those paddlers who will be participating in the Peninsula Canoe Club Swartland Canoe Marathon in 2 weeks time as well as in The Berg in July, as it is a section that is covered (in both races) on the 2^nd day of each.

With the weather forecasters telling us that there will be good rains this Thursday and Friday, it is hoped that this will raise the current river level, even if only to ensure that the current tree block about 200 m after the start at Gouda bridge, is navigable by more than 1 canoe at a time (as it is at present). If it isn’t, the race organisers would be well advised to move the start to below this massive obstruction.  Thereafter and for about the first 30 minutes of paddling, things are relatively clear until Black Rock is reached – here the question is always …’shoot it or portage it?’....at present, either way will work, although it must be remembered that when shooting  Black Rock, one goes down into a Palmiet gangetjie that is just more than 1 canoe width wide and so, if there is a canoe up ahead that has become stuck, there is no way that one can back off. If the river rises, then one can even shoot it alongside the river bank where one would portage. You make the call! The gangetjies before and the train bridge are clear, although there is a massive amount of debris around the base of one of the pillars, so it is advisable to paddle this channel in line – one behind the other. Of course, if the river rises, it may well be open and clear on river left, so giving paddlers the chance to give the gangetjie a miss. Below the train bridge and under the Heuningberg, there are many channels in the river, but, unlike last year, these seem to be clear at the moment. Be careful on the approaches to Ysterpen Rapid as there are a number of channels that look to be the one to take  but in fact end up as dead ends. The old saying of …’go right, go right and go right again’, may be the way to get through this section. Drie Gewels Weir is a tame drop, but the channels that follow it are not as straight forward as paddlers would like to find them – be aware on this section and follow the flowing water – make your own calls on which way to go as, just because there is a paddler ahead of you, it doesn’t necessarily mean that he/she knows the correct way to go!  

The finish is at Bridgetown – where there is neither a bridge nor a town! – but it is an exceptionally pleasant spot where local farmer’s wives have warm and cold fare for sale.

For novices or those paddlers who are still not sure of this section, the sweep for Saturday’s race, Mike Monson, of Peninsula Canoe Club, has offered to ‘shepherd’ you down. You can contact him at the start (Gouda Bridge) and make plans – remember, as a sweep, he will be going slowly, ‘sweeping’ up and assisting any ‘ducklings’ who are struggling, so it will of necessity be a slow paddle. Thanks to Mike in advance for this kind offer.

Lance King (Milnerton Canoe Club), who has been dominating the canoe races in the Western Cape so far this season – flat water and last week, on the Berg River from Paarl to Skooltjie, must start out as the favourite – but having said that, all river paddlers know that nothing is certain until the finish line has been crossed. Dogging him will be his training partners from Peninsula Canoe Club, Graeme Solomon (for so long the premier paddler in the Cape) and Gavin White, followed by P-W Basson and Heinrich Schloms (Paarl CC), Pierre-Andre Rabie and Ernest van Riet (Stel). However, still ‘charging’ is Veteran paddler, Eugene van der Westhuizen (Milnerton) and club mates, Greg van Heerden and Chris de Waal, whilst Dane Sanvido (Stel) and Cornelius Human (Mil), are also serious Top Ten paddlers, who, if the river gods give favour to, can also challenge the Big 5!

In the Women’s division, Robyn Kime (Stel) is out on her own at the moment and has to find racing partners amongst the men racing in positions 10 to 20, such is her prowess and river knowledge. Milnerton’s U23 flat water marathoner, Bianca Beavitt, has posted some good times recently, but along with Jackie Barnes  - also U23 (UCT), they probably wont be challenging Kime – rather the competition will between the two of them for 2^nd and 3^rd places. Jemma Hofmeyer (Pen) has also been putting in good training time (on the river too), so don’t discount her – her river knowledge may just pay off.

The race begins at the Gouda Bridge at 10h00 – registration is from 08h30. If paddlers are not sure of how to get to the start (and their seconds to the finish at Bridgetown), look up the previous W.C.C.U. newsletter (that you should have received), or got to the website (www.wpcanoe.org.za) where you can find directions.

VERY. VERY IMPORTANT – any paddlers arriving at the start who are not currently registered with the W.C.C.U. WILL NOT be allowed to race.

VERY, VERY, VERY IMPORTANT – PFD’s (i.e. life jackets) ARE COMPULSORY. (This is a Canoe South Africa ruling).

Thanks and regards

Rob MacLean

Media Liaison – WC.C.U.

P - 021 887 0017

F - 021 883 8461

M - 082 496 8957

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

GA

This is the 1st race in Bond Choice Series - Competition rules will be the same as previous years
5 Race Series - paddlers need to do the 2 compulsory races + 1 of the other races in the series to qualify for the lucky draw at the last race.
For further details and entry forms please check www.freewebs.com/flcc;

Tee & Coffee available at the start compliments of Bond Choice

Venue - Sports Ground
Start - 09H00
Enrties from 07H30
Pre-entries - www.gcu.co.za close Friday 29th May 12H00
Entry Fee - Seniors R45-00 Juniors R35-00 (Includes R10-00 Klip Levy)
Finish - Vaal Waterfont
Distance - 20km

K1 race K2's welcome

Batch Start on the water- 5 Minute splits
A - Seniors
B - Sub Vets - Ladies - Juniors
C - Vets to Grand Masters
D - K2'

Spot Prizes - Canoe Concepts, Capestorm & Thule

Refreshments will be available at the finish

We look forward to a great season and enjoyable racing

Bertie Baard
FLCC
011 353 6700
072 359 6767

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LOWVELD RACING

There will be a 20km K2 race next week Saturday at Longmere.  The race
will comprise of 4 Time Trial laps (5km) with 3 portages, on lap 1-3.
Race starts at 6:30.

15km Race will be run concurrently for novices.

Entry R55

K2 Race but K1's and K3's welcome
PFD at race organizers digression on the day.

Cheers

Mark
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

EC

River Clean Up / Sunday 31 May @ 2pm

By now you will have seen the communications regarding our first NAHOON RIVER CLEAN-UP.

Thanks must go to Cheryl Minkley and the BCC committee for this initiative.

BCC members will paddle to various points on the river to clean up litter. We will allocate

groups of people to the various areas of the river so that we cover most areas.

We have asked a number of the river side residents with barges and boats to be on the river on

Sunday to assist us with taking the black bags with litter to a central "drop off point".

Please bring some black bags .... We/BCM will also be supplying some gloves and additional bags.

We look forward to seeing as many BCC members as possible AND others that have an interest

in our Nahoon river. Bring the kids with too !!

We hope and trust that this will be the first of many more such initiatives and in so doing keeping

our river clean.

There will be a bring and braai afterwards.

Cheers for now.

Charl van Wyk.

BCC

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

KZ

Fezela Canoe Club

Presents:

Upper Umgeni

Beginners Race 2009

Date:                            Saturday, 30 May 2009

Time:                           10h00               Please note start time

Start venue:                  Alberts Falls Weir

Portage:                       +- 600 metres portage around the tree blocks

End venue:                   Old Mill

Entry fee:                     Entry fee includes entry to start venue at Alberts Falls Weir.

Seniors:                        R 65 

                                                Juniors:                        R 35   

Prizes:

All finishers are winners and numerous lucky draw prizes will be on offer.

                                    Water Release - KNCU have requested a special release for the race which is not

                                    on the origional schedule for the year and are awaiting news from Umgeni Water

KNCU & CSA regulations apply

Refreshments:              A cold assortment of drinks will be on sale.

                                    No food will be on sale.

Enquiries:                    Address enquiries to:    Bruce Acutt on  082 809 2573:

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

DMHWS Race 4: HANSA 5 Beaches, 20km - Sunday 31 May

Late Sam Wyer's 5 Beaches.

• Legendary T-SHirt to All competitors. 50 Ladies T-Shirts
• 10am Race Start
• Finish @ Toti Canoe Club
• SW Wind or NW (offshore)
• Start @Umkomaas, Portage at Karridene, Winkle & Warners, Finish at Toti Canoe Club, Portage over sand Bar and finish on the lagoon.
• NE Wind
• Start @ Ansteys, Beach at Toti Canoe Club beach, Portage over sandbank and finish on the Toti River.
• Legendary Race T, Beers after the Race(Hello Hansa), Cool Prizes, Music on the banks of the Amanzimtoti River, Borrie Rolls & Burgers Ala Mark Pontes & Crew

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

COMING SOON and ODDS and ENDS

EC

Nando’s Knysna Lagoon Challenge

For more information, contact: www.knysnayachtclub.com

This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

On-line entries go to www.entrytickets.net/KLC

Date: Sunday, 12th July Time: 9:00am

Venue: Knysna Oyster Festival

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

River Proficiency testing Border CC

 If you are wanting to compete in the Breede or Fish River Marathons this year,you need to complete your River Proficiency now, to give you time to complete the required qualifying races.

Please contact Gary Atkinson(0828593898 or This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ) for details of the next River Proficiency Course/Test

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

AREENA DOWNWIND ADVENTURE

Areena Race – 20 June

Areena is offering GREAT SPECIALS on accommodation for entrants!

So make it a weekend for the whole family!

www.areena.co.za to check it out and show your support!

ENTRIES OPEN 1 MAY!

We have CASH PRIZES for the Downwind Surfski Adventure

as well as FAB prizes  for the Flatwater and Guppy race from all our awesome sponsors.

There is something for EVERYONE!

FREE Amstels at the finish for all Adult paddlers!

Areena Quays Restaurant will have great food on offer

Don’t be in a rush to get home, we have loads in store to keep you and the family entertained.

For more Race info contact Angie 072 397 9710

To book Accommodation contact Delray 043 734 3055

20 JUNE THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!!

INTERNATIONAL SURFSKI CHAMPION DAWID MOCKE ON BOARD!

Soon to be dad, Dawid Mocke will be flying in to give the locals a run for the money!

This will be Dawid’s first time testing the waters of the East Coast. It will be interesting to see if the Champion can topple the podium from local experience and never–say-die East London paddlers such as Hennie Roos, Andrew Carter and Brendan Thompson, who know these waters better than the taste of a cold “Frothy Coke”,

But they better keep an eye out for Evan “Speed” Ridge who is becoming as fast as the tyres he sells!

Evan has been cleaning up the latest surf ski races and if he manages to steer clear of the 3 Sister’s breaking wave, (Which took him victim 2 years ago), he will be the one to watch! Will PE paddler Richard Wildermann arrive to prove his mettle, after an incredible race at the Kenton-on-Sea Downwind? In the ladies event, news is that PE paddler

Kirsten Wessels will be ready to give it horns and show the boys how it is done! Overheard last night.. New Cape Town local might be a surprise entry! The Areena Downwind falls 2 weeks before the annual World Cup Surf ski event, so paddlers will be able to get some last minute training in and see how their competition fairs.

FLATWATER GETS WILD!

Local boy Jamie Thompson will be stepping up the competition with his training preparations for SA Marathons the week after the Areena Race. He will be closely watched by Jordan Tebbutt,

Vaughn Warren and Kyle Friedenstein, who took top honours in last weekend’s BCC Closed Champs.

GUPPY POWER!!

The young guns race is hotting up with the Prodigy Kid, Josh Fenn, versus Tayne “The Man” Thompson, while Justin van Wyk is proving he can do it just like dad, but faster!

It’s going to be a day of fast racing with all out action to the finish line and entertainment for the whole family as the annual Areena Downwind Adventure hits the East Coast on Saturday 20^th June.

Thanks to all our Sponsors for making this race possible!

For more racing info contact Angie 072 397 9710

00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

KZ

A WARNINGFROM THE PORT SAFETY OFFICER

The paddle skis are not adhering tothe regulations and this has now become a high risk issue. Asfar

as I can remember, paddle skis arenot allowed to enter and exit the harbour entrance andmay

operate 1NM from the Durban PaddleSki Club.

Many paddle skis are launching fromWilson's Wharfand most probably are not registered withthe

port as well as they are not aware ofthe regulations and extreme danger when venturing intothe

prohibited water area underconstruction as well as operating close to thedredgers.

Steps will also be taken to policeWilson's Wharfin order to check on the legality of paddleskis

entering the port in that area.Please could you once again advise all the clubs to notify theirmembers

to refrain from operating in therestricted area.

As a result of the above, thefollowing was issued by the Durban Pleasure Craft Committee(DPCC)

Important Notice to all pleasure craft usingDurbanPort

1. Please note the yellow buoysdemarcate the construction area and no craft are allowed insidethese

buoys.

2. No craft are allowed to approachthe dredgers in the entrance channel andbasin.

3. The dredge operators have blindspots when dredging and are unable to see smallcraft

approaching. The Port has alreadyexperienced an incident with a ski boat capsizing as a resultof

coming too close to thedredger.

4. Failure to comply with theseinstructions will result in all canoeists being banned from usingthe

harbour.

5. Note the restrictedareas:

• The entrancechannel

• Construction site demarcated byyellow buoys

DaveCox

Chairman

DurbanPleasure CraftCommittee

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

KZN Current CalendarHighlights

FEZELA Upper Umgeni Race 10h00Saturday 30th May

SA Marathon 27th and 28th June -Keurbooms river at Plet - moved from 20 and 21st to avoid clash with BochumSprint tour

more atwww.kncu.co.zaandwww.canoesa.org.za

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

History of Canoeing in KZN.

With the writing of thebook on The History of KZN Canoeing coming on nicely, I am looking forcontributions from the KZN clubs themselves regarding their histories,achievements an anecdotes. The book will be of coffee table format, factual, yetinteresting and revealing something about the characters, personalities andevents that have occurred in KZN Canoeing History. This is a call to yourcommittees and local scribes and historians to send me information about yourclub and any other peripheral information you have. It is exciting writing thisbook, like uncovering an ancient tomb and I know the truth often takes manydifferent paths. All information pertaining to your clubs will be verified bythe individuals mentioned and a final draft will have to be approved by yourcommittee to avoid the curse of the pharaohs.

So I now need what you havegot, by email or on disc, as detailed as you like and with referencing if it'sneeded.

What follows is aguideline, but please feel free to adlib and flesh out.

I would like it by the endof May but before the end of June as I need to assimilate it into what I'vealready got and start some serious editing.

If your club has a place inthe history of KZN canoeing it would be in your interests to get the info backto me.

ClubName:

ClubAddress:

Website:

ContactPeople:

ClubSize:

ClubFacilities:

History:

Anecdotes;

Photographs; with captionsplease either scanned or hard copy

I really don't want hardcopy but if you must please send it to KNCU Book, POBox 13280, Cascades, 3202 ordrop it off with Laurenat the Natal Canoe Club at Camps Drift , Morningsbefore 12h00 marked ATT: George Forder

Yours in canoeing

GeorgeForder
www.spindrift.co.za
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
0827747530

000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000

SMALLS

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WANTING AN AMAZING PADDLING EXPERIENCE ? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE NEXT SEA KAYAK PADDLE AROUND THE ISLAND OF MAURITIUS IN DECEMBER 2009 WITH WILLOWS ADVENTURE SPORTS.

IF YOU WISH TO KNOW MORE,  CONTACT LES WILLOWS  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

OR,  ATTEND HIS NEXT PROMOTIONAL TALK AT UMZINYATHI CANOE CLUB AT SHONGWENI DAM ON WEDNESDAY 3^RD JUNE AT 7PM.IF THERE ARE ANY CANOE CLUBS/SURF-SKI CLUBS WHO WOULD LIKE LES TO GIVE  A TALK AND SHOW A PROMOTIONAL DVD OF THE SEA KAYAK TRIP AROU8ND MAURITIUS IN DEC 2009. YOU CAN CONTACT HIM AT This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hi all
 
Some weeks ago I lost the right hand 1/2 of an Aerodyne Technologies carbon paddle (which I paddled 5 or 6 "Berg's" with). While paddling on the sea, I got wiped out on the reef off Strand Beach & the split shaft came undone & one half sunk in the murky depths!! .
 
Having been to the original manufacturer to establish that they no longer have any bits lying around in the factory, I'm trying the "chat line" as a possible source. So if anyone has a replacement for me to buy - I'll be very grateful. The paddles were of the 1st 'all-in-one' wings & were a small Rasmussen-shape.
 
Hope to hear from somebody soon!!
 
Jurie Wessels
Strand, W/Cape
083 675 0702
------------

WANTED

2^nd hand V10 SURFSKI

Contact Richard 083 299 65 69

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Nelo K2 (Vanquish I ML model) for sale.

Used by Ant Stott and Cam Schoeman in winning the World Marathon Champs in Czech Republic last year, and by Jen Hodgson and Carol Joyce at SA Champs 2009. Very good condition and extremely fast , with recent slight damage that has been professionally repaired by authorised Nelo agent. No effect on stability, weight or performance but slightly visible on top of boat. Marathon weight conformance but ideal as a cross boat for sprints too. Asking R20,000-00. Please phone Bruce on 083-327-0233. Will be on view at SA Marathon Champs in Plett if anyone interested in seeing it first. Currently located in Pmb at the Drift. Can be transported up to Jhb if required. Comes with a bag. “  

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

For Sale:  Mark 1 Surfski made by Custom Kayaks

                   Size 5, R3000

                  Bruce 0832331591 Durban

----------------------------------------------------------

Paddlers

The following boats are for sale:

1 x Sella (K1) very thin, very light, can only be used on the dam (seen the dam maybe 6/8 times) R3500

1 x brand new Assegai (K1) boat - bought from Robbie Herreveld's shop. Seen the dam once, no rivers R4000

All the boats at my house (Mooikloof/ Pretoria East area)

Contact

Elize Maree
083 368 1132
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 x K1 (Tomcat)

Excellent condition -  as good as new – never been down a river.

R3500

Contact details:

Greg in Durban

0825220109

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am living in the UK and I am planning on doing the Sella in Spain this year (8^th of August). http://www.descensodelsella.com I have been training hard for the last 6 months and I raced a competitive Dusi and non-stop (4^th overall). I am still training hard and am hoping to race the Sella. I have a carbon-kevlar Eagle K2 to use for the race however I am lacking a partner! I am looking for a strong paddler who is keen to make use of the favourable exchange rate and come over to Spain to race.

Please contact me on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it if you are interested!

Cheers

Trenton Lamble

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For Sale: Pietermaritzburg

PMB River Craft Hi Line Dusky in excellent condition. Selling Price R2000-00

Suitable for beginner.

Contact: Michellle on 0823237676 or Des on 0828965100 or 033-3962429 after 6pm