Cradock - Fish River Tripping

Its the 2007 Hansa Fish River Canoe Marathon this weekend in Cradock, and although not racing, I spending the week on and around the river with Ruth and her family. Steven, Ruth’s younger brother, will be racing, as well as Zaren, my training partner of late. Its one of the most fun rivers in South Africa, and doing time on the water couldnt be easier.

(Zaren on the right, and myself on the wave on the left)

 There is a water release all week, as competitors ‘trip’ each of the precarious sections before the race unfolds on tomorrow and Saturday. Most of the head’s of State in South African river paddling will be present, as well as 7 internationals on the men’s side, and I think 4 in the ladies field. Should be riveting racing. But the Fish is also known as a jol for many, who dust off an old patched bout, enjoy the big water, and have an excuse to get intoxicated in celebrations thereafter. Havent seen the entry list this year, but should be around 2000 paddlers.

We are camping for the week, which I think makes it a training camp of sorts. Herewith some evidence:

(Long day at the office for me)

(Zaren fixing some grub)

(I dont know - Ruth took the photo - but note its in the very arid Karoo)

The time on the water has been of the most fun I’ve had for ages. There are big rapids, variation in weirs, over hanging willow trees, portages, everything to make a fun day out.

(Forcing on some booties, still half asleep)

(Courtney and I heading out on a section of Day2, both in Vadja’s)

(A snack break on the river side)

(Steve shooting the notorious Keith’s Rapid)

(Me shooting a weir on 2nd Day Section)

This entry was posted on Thursday, September 27th, 2007 at 6:39 pm and is filed under Fish River Canoe Marathon, Paddling. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.