Veteran Andy Birkett, right, and teammate Matt Fenn take it easy at the finish line after securing back-to-back Dusi K2 titles at Blue Lagoon in Durban on Saturday morning. Photo: Leon Lestrade Independent Media Andy Birkettinsists he is enjoying himself too much to walk away from the Dusi Canoe Marathon afterextending his record to 16 titles at Blue Lagoonon Saturday. The 35-year-old Euro Steel star became the first paddler to win the race 16 times when he and Matt Fenn secured back-to-back K2 victories, finishing more than 10 minutes clear of Sbonelo Khwela andMsawenkosi Mtolo.
In doing so, Birkett surpassed the late Graeme Pope-Ellis to become the most decorated paddler in Dusi history, claiming a 16th win in 17 years – a run of dominance and longevity seldom seen in any sport. Remarkably, it was only the second time he has won the race twice with the same K2 partner. With little left to prove, some may have wondered whether this was the perfect moment to bow out.
But for Birkett, the Dusi has never been about chasing numbers. “If you get caught up in what you are trying to achieve, you forget to enjoy yourself,” he said. “That is ultimately why we are here, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the last three days with Matty.
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It’s reignited the love for the race in me. “I’ve always said I’ll come back as long as I’m enjoying it, and I thoroughly enjoyed this year’s race. I’d love to come back next year, but I’ll have to see what’s in store in my life – hopefully I’m back.” Birkett added that the Dusi’s unique blend of endurance, strategy and unpredictability continues to draw him back.
“I love this event. It’s almost an adventure race – you never know what you’re going to get. The strategy and preparation are so important, which is probably why I enjoy it.” Runner-up Khwela, meanwhile, was less certain about his future. The veteran joked that he may be “too old” to keep up with the youngsters after feeling the pressure early in the race.
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