Paarl Canoe Club

The Berg River

The banks of the Berg River are home to the Paarl Canoe Club, which is situated just north of Cape Town in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. This river, also known as the Great Berg River or “Bergrivier” in Afrikaans, stretches approximately 294km (183m) in length and boasts a catchment area of 7,715 square kilometres. Eventually, it flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Agriculture covers about 65% of the Berg River area, and the region is marked by several major towns, including Velddrif and Laaiplek near the coast, Piketberg, Hopefield, Moorreesburg, and Darling further inland, and Wellington and Paarl in the upper catchment. The primary source of the Berg River is located south of Franschhoek in the Drakenstein Mountains.

The river’s earliest European record dates back to 1657 when bailiff Abraham Gabbema made note of it. Dutch Governor Jan van Riebeeck had sent him to engage in trade with the Khoekhoe people for meat to supply the settlement at the Cape. Gabbema named the river the ‘Groot Berg Rivier.’

Paarl Canoe Club serves as the starting point for the Berg Marathon, an event founded in 1962 by a group of 35 pioneers. These intrepid individuals embarked on a journey down the flooded Berg River from Paarl, marking the inception of this challenging four-day race.

The Berg River Canoe Marathon is a multi-day competition that traditionally spans four days, covering a distance of approximately 240km (149m). Renowned as one of the world’s most demanding canoe races, t pits participants against formidable river conditions, including swift currents, rapids, and cold weather, yet the race draws paddlers and spectators from both the country and around the world.

Over the years, the Berg Marathon has grown into a prominent event within South African canoeing, boasting a rich history and cherished traditions in the sport. Competitors vie for victory in various categories, and the race is celebrated for its scenic splendour as it winds its way through the captivating landscapes of the Western Cape.

Click here to view the Berg River Marathon website

Source: Wikipedia

Development

The Paarl Canoe Club’s Development Program is dedicated to empowering children from historically disadvantaged communities in and around Paarl by introducing them to the sport of canoeing. This initiative provides a comprehensive support system that includes a dedicated coach, Mzamo Madubedube, who himself began his journey in the Development Program. The program offers access to canoes, transportation to and from the Berg River, and a nutritious meal at the conclusion of their training sessions.

In the neighbourhoods surrounding Paarl, many of these young participants face the challenge of parents often working long hours, striving to provide for their families. For these children, canoeing serves as a beacon of hope, offering them the chance to transform their lives and nurture aspirations for brighter futures. They all share a collective dream of one day becoming Olympic paddlers, and there is every reason to believe in the realisation of their ambitions.

On most days, you can spot the development teams out on the water, enjoying themselves while diligently pursuing their dreams. They work tirelessly, fueled by the belief that through canoeing, they can shape their destinies and create a better future for themselves and their communities.

In the words of Mzamo Madubedube: “In the last 20 years that I have been paddling my world has grown from only knowing Paarl & Cape Town, to attending regattas in Germany, Australia, Spain, Singapore, Kenya and Ivory Coast. I have grown a lot since I started doing the sport. I have grown as a person, my self-confidence and my mind set have become very positive.”

 

Coaching

Wayne August Coaching will be able to assist you with all your canoeing needs. Mzamo and Divieano Pietersen have over 20 years experience in paddling and coaching. From one on one sessions, to beginner coaching and more advanced style coaching. Click here to view his Facebook page or contact Wayne directly: wayneaugustcoaching@gmail.com