The second edition of the Green Kalahari Canoe Marathon kicked-off in perfect conditions in Upington in the Northern Cape yesterday morning. The first stage of the 3-day marathon will sawthe field of close to seventy boats tackle the mighty Orange River for 99 kilometres which features fast, flat open water, fast rapids and incredibly scenery.

The men’s K1 field promises to be a fierce battle with some of the country’s top paddlers in action. Last year’s K2 winner Lance King showed his intentions early by passing the Upington bridge in the lead and winning the R5000 hot spot prize for day one. A last minute entry by Andy Birkett added some extra excitement to the field, despite the withdrawal of Sbonelo Zondi due to a wrist injury.

In the ladies’ race, tough competition is expected between former world surfski champions Michele Eray and Nikki Mocke.
The first stage will finish at approximately 11h30 at Oranje Rust. Day 2 starts at 07h00 from Oranje Rust and will finish at Die Mas in Kakamas.

For more information, join Green Kalahari Canoe Marathon on Facebook or @kalaharigawie on Twitter.