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McGregor, Birkett set early pace at Duzi marathon

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The powerhouse team of Hank McGregor and Andy Birkett took control of the 2018 Dusi (Duzi) Canoe Marathon from the starting line.

Stage two of the Dusi kicks off bright and early on Friday morning when the lead teams hit the water first. There’s expected to be s some shifting in the men’s race with the Holston brothers and the Carl Folscher and Adrian Boros combination looking strong as well.

The world marathon number one and two champions set the pace at the front ahead of several other strong teams. In the women’s race, pre-race favourites, the Peek sisters recovered from an early tumble to take the lead and cross stage one first.

Extremely hot and humid conditions welcomed paddlers as they hit the water on day one of the Dusi (Duzi) Canoe Marathon.

The popular canoeing marathon is back for its 66 edition.  Both McGregor and Birkett say day one brought hard work and some good laughs.

The Peek sisters (Jordan and Cana)  overcame an early capsize at the Ernie Pearce Weir to cross the finish line first in stage one of the women’s race. The pair have been touted as strong contenders from the start. Despite the shaky start, they took on Bridgitte Hartley and Christie McKenzie to finish the stage, first.

The excitement along the Dusi route was palpable from as early as half past five in the morning. Learners in school uniform and families came out to get a first glimpse of the paddlers.

The support system of family, friends and the “seconds” or people who provide nutritional supplies and support along the way is a critical component of the race.

The race is run along the Msunduzi and Mngeni rivers over a total distance of 120 km.

Watch previous Duzi Canoe Marathon:

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