Dusi star Michael Mbanjwa sets his sights on GT Drak Challenge

Underberg - Dusi legend Michael Mbanjwa has confirmed his entry for the Global Trader Drakensberg Challenge canoe marathon on 27 and 28 February, marking a sharp departure in the popular paddler's usual routine.

Mbanjwa, who was runner-up in this years Hansa Powerade Dusi with Ant Stott after a dramatic final stage swim at Pumphouse Rapids, normally prioritises the Non-Stop Dusi, after which he is forced to take time off to fully recover and is unable to take part in the popular Drak Challenge.

Mbanjwa has eagerly submitted his entry for the two day classic in the Southern Drakensberg mountains, as he has been forced off the Non-Stop Dusi by the hamstring injury that has worried him since he badly injured on the 2009 Stihl Non-Stop Dusi which he won with Martin Dreyer.

"I am definitely on for the GT Drak, and I am very excited about it," said Mbanjwa from his East Rand training base. "I haven't been able to really race it for a while, and I want to give it a full go."

Mbanjwa is also eager to make his mark on the race as it will also be hosting the SA K1 River Championships. "The field will be very strong," said Mbanjwa. "It will be difficult to beat guys like my Dusi partner Ant Stott, because he is a legend on that river. But I will be trying my best."

Mbanjwa is hoping that the good rainfalls that have kept the Umzimkulu river flowing full and fast will continue. "A medium to full level will suit me the best," he said. "But not too full!"

Mbanjwa, who was raised in the Valley Of a Thousand Hills where he was taught to paddle by the late Robert Lembethe at Nagle Dam, has become an iconic figure in the region and has single handed inspired a new generation of young black paddlers to take up the sport.

"The key to doing well on the Umzimkulu is to have time to trip the river properly before the race," said Mbanjwa. "I am hoping to get down to Underberg in the week before the race to have plenty of time to check out the river."

Mbanjwa is looking forward to lining up against his Dusi partner Ant Stott for the national title decider. Stott as six time winner and the current defending champion will start as the favourite for the 2010 title, and has a high regard for Mbanjwa's paddling strength and determination.

The Global Trader Drakensberg Challenge takes place in Underberg on 27 and 28 February. More information can be found at www.drak.co.za

ENDS