Boost for World Cup surf skiers
21 June 2006
Three Chesterville canoeists can now begin gearing up for the Surf Ski World Cup in Durban in earnest after receiving a sponsorship that will enable them to be on the starting line with optimum equipment and preparation.
The trio is part of the Chairman's team that was a selected at the national trials for the World Cup, which takes place on 2 July.
However, Wanda Mbutho, Xolani Mkhize and Mthunzi Ngcobo, who are all semi-professional lifeguards and also work at the Surf Ski School at Ushaka Beach, were using outdated skis and equipment.
A R40 000 sponsorship from National Auto Glass has ensured that their needs are well looked after, and they can set their sights on doing their country proud at the event at Durban's Bay of Plenty.
'Much lighter and faster'
The squad members took delivery of their new skis recently and are now training on their race-craft. "This is great," said Mthunzi Ngcobo, one of
the paddlers. "These skis are much lighter and faster than our training craft and now we have time to adjust to the new equipment."
"It is not just about this one event," explains their coach, Barry Lewin. "The sponsorship will cover the Surf Ski School development squad’s expenses for the rest of the year, and includes their skis, kit, traveling expenses and coaching costs."
Steven Swart, owner on National Auto Glass, said he sees the sponsorship as putting something back into the sport that has given him such pleasure. As a keen paddler, he has raced in the regular surfski series, participated in events in Ireland and Spain, and has also completed a number of river races.
'Quite an achievement'
"I am glad we could help these young sportsmen," said Swart. "Being selected for the World Cup squad is quite an achievement."
Ngcobo and fellow squad members, Xolani Mkhize and Wanda Mbutho, will spend as much time on the water over
the next weeks in preparation for the 30-kilometre World Cup event.
SouthAfrica.info reporter
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