I have no idea whether the ANC Youth League leader Mr Julius Malema like rivers or swimming . . . he may be fond of a dip or a paddle, he may detest H2O, who knows. But what I do know is if he doesn’t change his mind and accept Oscar Chalupsky’s offer of a free ride down the Dusi in February next year, he’ll have missed out on a great opportunity to boost his popularity and win over new fans.
Perhaps a number of sceptics would have been impressed with his efforts and his chutzpah in taking up the aquatic offer.
Chalupsky made the bold offer on Wednesday, saying he would head up the K3 canoe, with Malema in the middle and Oscar’s brother Herman (also a champion paddler) at the back. In this scenario, Malema would have been guided, expertly and safely, down the river – with next to no effort on his part.
What about the portages you ask? Well, indeed, that could have posed a problem. However, while Malema doesn’t appear to be the fittest person on the planet . . . where there’s a will, there’s a way.
The Unlimited Dusi launch: Pictures
But now, with Malema’s ever-present spokesman Mr Floyd Shivambu having brushed aside the offer, it looks like the ANCYL President is going to miss the opportunity to meet the KZN populace “on the ground” and see for himself how the Dusi has transformed. It’s well documented that the trail blazed by the brilliant Michael Mbanjwa ( a former Dusi winner) has been followed by a number of Martin Dreyer’s academy protégés . . . A large percentage of the top 20 finishers in the men’s race are now black, local men with a passion for canoe racing.
With all the excitement of the event this could have been a great opportunity to meet new people, shake hands and win over new fans in KZN.
Change of heart
It seems though, that the door is still open to a change of heart. The Daily Dispatch reports that while Malema may be too busy to engage in non political events like the Dusi, the door is still open should he change his mind.
No time for non-political Dusi
The Daily Dispatch Online reported: “Disappointed at Shivambu’s response, spokesperson for the organisers Ray de Vries said the invite was not issued to the youth league, but to Malema in his personal capacity.”
It quoted De Vries as saying, “I think it’s a wonderful gesture, I think it would have made an incredible statement.”
The article continued saying: “De Vries said Chalupsky would personally contact Malema regarding the invite and that they would take it from there.”
Love him or hate him, we all know Julius Malema likes a challenge. I say, reconsider Mr Malema . . . come and see what the Dusi and KZN is all about. – Garth Johnstone