Entries for the Clean Water Challenge have officially opened to all paddlers, with a breath of fresh air, bringing new sponsors to the sport along with some ideas to the take the event, which was formally known as the Liebenbergsvlei Canoe Marathon, forward. Now officially titled, Clean Water Challenge – Liebenbergsvlei, the two-day race, to be held on September 17 and 18 is a must on the canoeing calendar.
The route will be paddled over the same section of the river as in 2019, with the organising committee tripping the rivers for updates and new sections from 2023. A added bonus for the event is that it will also play host to the SA Schools K1 River Championships for 2022 so a large school pupil participation is expected.
“The 2022 event will cover similar distances as in the past; 32km on Day 1 and 30km on Day 2,” said new Race Director, Brad Glasspoole, “however we are embarking on this journey with the vision of creating a brand which encompasses the community, along with the privilege of clean water, something which is key to the event’s and sport’s sustainability.”
Sponsors are key to success of any event and the Clean Water Challenge are fortunate to confirm Standard Bank as the events title sponsor, along with long-time paddling supporter, Euro Steel and aQuelle as the event’s new hydration partner. This bodes well for a paddler friendly race ensuring all the services and amenities required are available.
Glasspoole added, “We have been in discussion with many of the local role players and they have survived a very difficult period. The race will add some fresh energy back into local communities which we will support through their various organisations. In addition, local accommodation and businesses will be supported which will bring much needed funds into the area.”
The host club, Dabulamazi remain committed and steadfast in their vision of making this the premier event in the region and elevating it to the status of one of the most desirable races to do in the country. This is echoed by the support given to them through the governing union, GCU, who have wholeheartedly supported the venture.
All role players are in place to ensure a smoothly run event and the call goes out to all the paddlers to now support the race and enter through the national CSA entry portal. More event information can be found at www.cleanwaterchallenge.co.za