Two top notch paddling events will be hosted at the St Francis canals, with the first event, the Provincial Eastern Cape Marathon, kicking off in May, while the South African Marathon Championships take place in June.
Marie Louw, secretary of the Eastern Cape Canoe Union, said the Provincial Eastern Cape Marathon will be held from May 27 with The Quays as the start and finish point. However, she said that the action can be followed all over the canals, especially at The Cove, which is the portage section.
The action-packed event will start at 11:00 each day. Louw said that the participating age groups include u/8 to over 70.
“Almost 100 paddlers will participate, completing several laps according to their age groups, some up to seven laps,” said Louw. “We expect more than 250 entries for the national event.”
She said the public is advised to keep a lookout for the u/8s, u/10s, u/12s, and those who will be participating on bodyboards who can do with support from the banks.
In addition to the Provincial Eastern Cape Marathon, the South African Marathon Championships – which will include the Stand Up Paddlers (SUP) – will take place from June 15 to 17 at The Quays.
“Some big names will be participating, and again we would like the community to support this event,” said Louw.
She said that the main sponsor for both provincial and national events this year is PW Harvey & Co.
For more info, visit www.eccu.co.za, or contact Marie Louw on 076 751 4718.
– ISSUED BY ESTI STEWART ON BEHALF OF THE EASTERN CAPE CANOE UNION
