PIETERMARITZBURG, 21 JUNE 2017 – Characterised by large open ocean swells, the FNB Durban Downwind Surfski race has an incredibly competitive field. Now in its fourth year, the race will host international paddlers as well as the best South African surfski paddlers over the weekend of the 24th and 25th of June 2017.
Defending FNB Durban Downwind Champion, Hank McGregor (Jeep Team) will be gunning for a spot on the podium against the likes of Kenny Rice, Jasper and Dawid Mocké, Matthew Bouman, and Australian paddlers, Mark Anderson and Shaun Rice, all paddling at the top of their game.
Since its inception in 2014, the FNB Durban Downwind, a World Surfski Series title race, has been a sought-after title. In 2017, this coveted race has the added incentive of being the South African Singles Surfski Championships.
“It’s a massive race as it is both the national championships and our world championship trials. I go out there to win every race that I paddle, and to win a national title is always special. If I win, I am guaranteed a spot in the national team for the World Champs, which is a huge bonus,” says McGregor.
This year, the race will cover 26km between La Mercy and Marine Surf Lifesaving Club, with the course direction dependent on the wind direction on the day. The race is held during a two-day window to allow for the best possible conditions.
The singles and doubles races will take place simultaneously with the singles clash being the primary focus.