King of The Dusi Prepares to Paddle His Way to Another Victory

Sbonelo Khwela is seen at the finish line on Day 3 of the Dusi Canoe Marathon, in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa on February 18, 2017 // Kelvin Trautman / Red Bull Content Pool

Sbonelo Khwela has a goal this year to win the Dusi Marathon in remembrance of his mother, and all those who have lost their lives due to COVID-19.

South Africa (21 February 2021) – Like so many South Africans, the lockdown has seen Red Bull athlete and Dusi Canoe Marathon champion, Sbonelo Khwela, pivoting his talents to cope.

With competitions drying up in 2020, he purchased a truck and has started manufacturing and selling bricks to building projects in the community of Shongweni – even making his own deliveries as he tried to bide his time until the next shot at another glorious podium finish.

And that chance is fast approaching. Khwela fully intends to be on the start line of the Dusi’s 2021 edition between the 18^th and 20^th of March 2021 – and expectations are high for the legendary canoer.

Khwela secured his position of second place at the Dusi Canoe Marathon in 2019, totalling 10 podium finishes in 11 years. He has also won the Non-Stop Dusi (his 6^th Non-Stop win) along with teammate Thulani Mbanjwa in 2018.

As if his new business ventures weren’t keeping him busy enough, Khwela is fiercely training in preparation.

“I try and train between 7 am and 8 am every day, said Khwela. “I get my energy by drinking Red Bull which I usually consume before and during training, I do daily push-ups and spend most of my time in the garden. Besides paddling, I’ve developed a passion for running and cycling, so there’s always the potential for a triathlon or two if I should ever retire from paddling.”

The famous Dusi Canoe Marathon is one of the world’s best kayaking competitions, taking between 1600-2000 annual competitors along the gruelling Msunduzi and Mgeni Rivers in KwaZulu Natal – a total distance of 120km.

“My goal this year is to win the Dusi Marathon in remembrance of my mother, and of all those who have lost their lives due to COVID-19,” adds Khwela.

The 2021 Dusi Canoe Marathon will be held between 18-20 March 2021. Visit https://www.redbull.com/za-en/athlete/sbonelo-khwela for more information about Sbonelo Khwela.