All systems go for Freedom Day surfski classic

THIS Freedom Day (April 27), the cream of South Africa’s ocean paddlers will converge in Cape Town for the Prescient Freedom Paddle – a 27km race around the iconic Robben Island.

Since its inception in 2018, the circumnavigation of the island that housed former president Nelson Mandela and many other political prisoners has become an event in celebration of our nation’s freedom.

The organisers have moved boldly to make the event accessible to a wide variety of ocean paddle crafts, while promoting shorter alternatives for the less skilled and fit paddlers.

To make the event as inclusive and accessible as possible, the organisers have retained the two shorter course distances and opened the event to a wide variety of different ocean paddle-powered craft for the 2022 edition. The traditional surfskis will be joined by stand-up paddle boarders, prone paddlers, ocean sculls and ocean kayaks.

“Any paddle powered craft that is seaworthy enough to complete the racecourse in a reasonable amount of time is eligible,” said event organisers Robin Tindall.

To get more paddlers involved in the milestone day the event will once again offer a 15km and a novice-friendly 8km option to the days programme.

To enter, visit www.freedompaddle.co.za.

Source: northglennews.co.za