New era for Mbanjwa
VALLEY of a Thousand Hills hero and South African canoeing icon, Thulani Mbanjwa, is readying himself for another strong showing at the 2017 FNB Dusi Canoe Marathon, despite having some telling obstacles standing in his way to the February 16-18 event.
While still filled with belief that he can compete at the sharp end of the Dusi – a race that floods his heart with love and his head with good memories – the reality of life is a growing challenge an advancing Mbanjwa must overcome if he is to add a second Dusi scalp to his repertoire in 2017.
“I know I’m still good enough to compete and my experience is a big advantage,” a usually calm and reserved Mbanjwa says with unusual vigour and purpose. “I still love racing and I know I still have lots left in the tank as far as my paddling goes.”
“It’s just now difficult to find the time to train properly as I’m very busy with my job and I’ve also got a young family I have to think about and care for,” he adds.
The renowned Build it/Williams Hunt competitor famously etched his name into South Africa’s sporting history books when he and “Dusi Duke” Martin Dreyer claimed a historic victory at the iconic Pietermaritzburg to Durban paddling event in 2008 in K2 race record time.
Despite the top echelons of the sport having become increasingly competitive since his career-defining victory and some in the country’s paddling circles are of the belief that he is yet to truly fulfil his remarkable talent, the 33-year-old has notched up a list of Dusi results that remains the envy of most.
Two second places (2009 and 2010), a pair of thirds (2011 and 2012), a brace of fourths (2014 and 2015) and a fifth place (2013), together with his win in 2008, are only offset by his and K2 partner, Shaun Rubenstein’s eighth place effort in 2016 as Mbanjwa’s only Dusi finish outside the top five in the past nine years.
As the build-up to February’s challenge continues, the experienced warhorse remains wholeheartedly committed to his Dusi cause, eager to put in another strong showing and challenge for a podium – or better – once more.
Mbanjwa has also had to take cognisance of new key life considerations. Serving as KwaZulu-Natal Canoe Union’s Development officer, Mbanjwa spends much of the week mentoring the next generation of paddling stars. – Gameplan Media