Berg River marathon returns to its traditional date

The organisers of the iconic Berg River Canoe Marathon have confirmed that the event will return to its traditional date of the first week of July and have announced  the 61st running of the four-day race from Paarl to Velddrif will take place on  July 6-9.

The much-anticipated 60th anniversary edition of the race was staged a month later than usual in 2021 as the race organisers, in conjunction with Canoeing SA,  sought to ensure the race took place against the backdrop of Covid-19 lockdown regulations.

With the success of the 2021 event to build on, the Western Cape Canoe Union was eager to get the 240km race back to its familiar midwinter place on the national calendar.

Event manager Brandon Macleod said  the race will continue to build on its legacy and traditions, while working hard to make sure it remains accessible and a target for the upcoming generations of paddlers.

“Every year paddlers from around the country and around the world are inspired by the achievements of every single person who finishes the Berg, and for many it becomes a bucket-list event,” said Macleod.

“We have a responsibility to make sure that in another 60 years’ time the Berg remains a race right at the top of paddlers’ priority lists all over the world.” 

The event aims to capitalise on winter rainfall to ensure a full and fast-flowing Berg River for the race. The shifting weather patterns of the La Niña years have made the optimal race dates difficult to pinpoint, but the event organisers are confident the wet phase that ensured a lot of heavy rainfall over the northern parts of the country during the summer will lead to a wet Cape winter as well.

“Every Berg paddler understands they have to deal with the Cape winter weather and water levels as they find them on each day of the race,” said Macleod.

“Last year, after three idyllic days of paddling the onshore gale for the final 60km stage into Velddrif made it very tough for every participant.

“Every paddler who has a 2021 Berg medal in their trophy cabinet will cherish it.” he said.

Entries for the race will open shortly at discounted early bird pricing.