Andy Birkett chases record 16th Dusi Canoe Marathon title in historic edition

At the end of last year’s Dusi Canoe Marathon, Andy Birkett reflected on a defining moment at Tops Needle: whether to take a conservative portage that might erode his five-minute lead, or to shoot the rapid.

Birkett chose the bolder option. He returned that evening for a practice run, worked out a clean line and executed it the following day.

That blend of calculation and courage has long defined the man who now stands on the brink of history once again on the Msunduzi and uMngeni rivers.

As the Dusi Canoe Marathon celebrates its 75th edition, Birkett arrives at Bishopstowe Hall chasing a record-extending 16th title – and an 11th in succession – a feat that would further cement his status as the greatest paddler in the race’s storied history.

For more than a decade, the Euro Steel star has shaped an era of the Dusi. His clinical river reading, ruthless efficiency on the portages and tactical intelligence across the three-day grind have made him the benchmark by which others are measured. In this landmark year, he has the chance to etch his name even deeper into the race’s folklore.

A formidable partnership

Birkett will not pursue history alone. He teams up with Matthew Fenn in one of the strongest K2 combinations in the field.

The pair are defending champions after claiming the K2 crown in 2024, and their understanding of each other’s strengths reinforces their status as pre-race favourites. Notably, Fenn is only the second paddler with whom Birkett has contested multiple Dusis – unusual in a race where partnerships often shift in search of marginal gains. 

Their path to Blue Lagoon, however, is unlikely to be straightforward.

The challengers lining up

Every Dusi carries unpredictability – fluctuating river levels, technical rapids and punishing portages – and this anniversary edition is no exception. A deep and determined field will aim to deny Birkett his moment.

Sbonelo Khwela and Msawenkosi Mtolo rank among the most serious threats, capable of applying sustained pressure across all three stages. Sandile Mtolo and Bongani Ntinga also possess the pedigree and form to challenge for overall honours.

Experience could prove decisive. Veterans Thulani Mbanjwa and Shaun Rubenstein have the savvy to capitalise on any slip, while Johannesburg-based Siseko Ntondini and Benjamin Mntonintshi add further depth to a stacked field.

Brothers Andrew and Alan Houston could push for a top-five finish, while Thabani Msia and Siyanda Gwamanda remain a consistent pairing across three demanding days.

The weight of legacy

The Dusi has always been more than a race. Since its inception, it has stood as a test of resilience and teamwork, blending world-class paddling with brutal portages and the ever-changing character of KwaZulu-Natal’s waterways.

To win once is significant. To win 15 times, as Birkett already has, is extraordinary. To claim a 16th in the 75th edition would be symbolic – a meeting point of past and present, dominance and durability.

Yet reputation counts for nothing once the starter’s gun fires. The route from Bishopstowe Hall to Blue Lagoon has humbled champions before, and the toll of three consecutive days on the river leaves little margin for error. 

Women’s race adds intrigue

While Birkett’s quest dominates the narrative, the women’s contest offers a compelling subplot

Christie Mackenzie and Saskia Hockly start as favourites, with Mackenzie chasing her first Dusi K2 title after four successive K1 crowns. Multiple winner Abby Solms, partnering Robyn Groenink, looms as a major challenger after their recent Bishopstowe to Dusi Bridge victory.

Former champion Jess Behn and Jenna Goddard add further depth, while Under-18 leaders Hana Newlands and Tayla Norton are ready to make their mark for the next generation. 

But make no mistake: the defining storyline of this 75th Dusi is Birkett’s pursuit of history. If he and Fenn master the rapids and portages once more, Blue Lagoon could witness a moment that resonates far beyond this weekend.