Pietermaritzburg – The organisers of the Dusi Canoe Marathon have welcomed a major boost ahead of the 2026 edition, with KwaZulu-Natal’s Department of Sports, Arts and Culture committing R200 000 in prize money to this year’s race.
The contribution reinforces the province’s support for one of South Africa’s most iconic sporting events and provides a meaningful incentive for elite paddlers competing in both the men’s and women’s categories.
Having local government behind the race is an important support structure for the Dusi and it also shows the event holds a significant spot in the local and national sporting calendar.
“Government backing plays a vital role in sustaining the growth and legacy of the Dusi Canoe Marathon,” head of the race organising committee Doug Gow said. “Ensuring that the event continues to attract top-level competition while expanding opportunities for emerging athletes is crucial.
“The additional prize purse not only raises the competitive stakes but also recognises the dedication, preparation and resilience required to tackle the demanding three-day journey between Pietermaritzburg and Durban.”
Beyond the elite racing, the Dusi remains a powerful platform for development within the sport. In recent years, paddlers from development programmes have consistently demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level, highlighting the success of grassroots initiatives across KwaZulu-Natal.
Athletes such as Thulani Mbanjwa, Sbonelo Khwela, Khumbulani Nzimande and Msawenkosi Mtolo have delivered standout performances that reflect both personal achievement and the continued strength of development structures in the province. These structures have helped elevate these paddlers from development structures to bona fide elite athletes over the years.
Notably, a significant portion of the top ten finishers now emerge from development clubs, underlining the evolving landscape of canoeing in the province. Their success showcases how access, mentorship and sustained support can transform talent into elite performance.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 race, the combined impact of government investment, strong development pathways and heightened competition promises another compelling chapter in the rich history of the Dusi Canoe Marathon.