Whitewater Kayaking Course with the Canoe Polo Team

Earlier this month, twelve of Dabulamanzi Canoe Club’s canoe polo players took part in a full day whitewater kayaking course for beginners.  During the training, the group, consisting of kids and adults between the ages of 13 and 27 years, were instructed on the do’s and don’ts of whitewater kayaking.

Once the group mastered the basic principles of whitewater kayaking, they practiced their new found skills like a paddle roll and a wet exit in calm waters before they went down the river.  Although the water level was low, the participants were able to get a good idea of what it feels like to negotiate the rapids on a fast-flowing river.  Feedback from the group was that they definitely want to do it again!  

Whitewater Training (Parys) hosted the training. They can be contacted at 083 253 5225 or 056 811 2597.  www.whitewatertraining.co.za

The next day, thirty canoe polo players from across Gauteng took part in a regional tournament at Likkewaan Canoe Club in Parys.  Eighteen players from Dabulamanzi Canoe Club, 5 players from ERK Canoe Club (Benoni) and 7 players from Likkewaan Canoe Club (Parys) participated in the event.  Three under 18 teams, consisting of boys and girls aged 13 to 18 years, competed against each other. There were also two senior teams who competed in the tournament.  The adrenaline was pumping as the players fought to get possession of the ball in order to score a goal. Despite the scorching heat, the spectators were entertained by the fast paced and often unpredictable games.  Fun was had by all.

The next big canoe polo event is South African Champs, where players from across Gauteng will battle it out to be crowned winners in their divisions. It will take place from 3 to 5 May at Baynesfield Private Lodge in Richmond, Kwazulu-Natal.