Andy Brikette (front) and Matt Fenn (back) will be out to defend their 2024 K2 Dusi Canoe Marathon title in the 75th edition of the iconic river race at the weekend. At the end of last year’s Dusi Canoe Marathon,Andy Birkettreflected on a defining moment at Tops Needle: whether to take a conservative portage that might erode his five-minute lead, or to shoot the rapid. Birkett chose the bolder option.
He returned that evening for a practice run, worked out a clean line and executed it the following day. That blend of calculation and courage has long defined the man who now stands on the brink of history once again on the Msunduzi and uMngeni rivers. As theDusi Canoe Marathoncelebrates its 75th edition, Birkett arrives at Bishopstowe Hall chasing a record-extending 16th title – and an 11th in succession – a feat that would further cement his status as the greatest paddler in the race’s storied history.
For more than a decade, the Euro Steel star has shaped an era of the Dusi. His clinical river reading, ruthless efficiency on the portages and tactical intelligence across the three-day grind have made him the benchmark by which others are measured. In this landmark year, he has the chance to etch his name even deeper into the race’s folklore.
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Birkett will not pursue history alone.He teams up with Matthew Fennin one of the strongest K2 combinations in the field. The pair are defending champions after claiming the K2 crown in 2024, and their understanding of each other’s strengths reinforces their status as pre-race favourites. Notably, Fenn is only the second paddler with whom Birkett has contested multiple Dusis – unusual in a race where partnerships often shift in search of marginal gains.
Their path to Blue Lagoon, however, is unlikely to be straightforward. Every Dusi carries unpredictability – fluctuating river levels, technical rapids and punishing portages – and this anniversary edition is no exception. A deep and determined field will aim to deny Birkett his moment.
Sbonelo Khwela and Msawenkosi Mtolorank among the most serious threats, capable of applying sustained pressure across all three stages.Sandile Mtolo and Bongani Ntingaalso possess the pedigree and form to challenge for overall honours. Experience could prove decisive.Veterans Thulani Mbanjwa and Shaun Rubensteinhave the savvy to capitalise on any slip, while Johannesburg-basedSiseko Ntondini and Benjamin Mntonintshiadd further depth to a stacked field.
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