Watersport fun on the South Coast
28 October 2009
Scottburgh on South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal south coast hosts the 2009 South Coast Surf Carnival from 7 to 8 November. It's all about watersports, and includes kiteboarding, longboard surfing, paddleboarding and, for the first time, kayak fishing.
"To add to this year's already exciting line-up, we will be introducing the sport of kayak fishing, which has been a long time coming and certainly fits into the carnival perfectly," event organiser Paul Godwin said in a statement on Monday.
Kayak fishing
Paddle-ski fishing, which has evolved into kayak fishing, had its humble beginnings in the mid-1940. It has, over the years, become one of South Africa's most popular angling sports.
Paddle-skiers have not only become accomplished anglers but craftsmen as well, with many designing and constructing their own fishing kayaks.
The kayak fishing competition format will be decided on the biggest game fish caught. All competitors may weigh in only one fish, with the minimum weight being two kilograms.
Competitors can launch anywhere, but must beach at Scottburgh's main beach.
Aim
"My aim this year has been to attract new sponsors to our sport and grow awareness for kayak fishing by staging an event where prizes can be won by everyone," said avid fisherman and organiser Shaun Reid.
Competitors will be battling it out for prizes valued at over R15 000. Entries must be in by 1 November, and the entrance fee is R200.
Competitors need to ensure that they have a valid fishing licence. If they do not have one, they will be disqualified. Online entries may be made at Fishing Corner.
Poi
Another new and exciting feature to the carnival will be the Poi demonstrations, which the entire family can participate in.
Poi originates from the traditional performing arts of the Maori people of New Zealand, and has evolved into a modern art form, with poi players in almost every country in the world. It is closely associated with fire dancing and entertainment.
Some other forms of poi are glow poi or glowstringing, in which UV-sensitive materials, including LED lights and chemical glow sticks, are used in the dark.
Surfing clinics
Ushaka Surf and Adventures will also contribute to the fun by providing free surfing clinics on both days of the carnival.
They are open to all who would like to learn to surf and who would like go on a stand-up paddleboard in the lagoon. The clinics are run by qualified instructors and provide a great introduction to the world of surfing.
SAinfo reporter
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