Hansa Powerade Drak Challenge Media Release

 No: drak0806

21 Feb 2008

Len Jenkins ads his name to Hansa Powerade Drakensberg Challenge mix.

Underberg – Len Jenkins has added his name to the contenders for the Hansa Powerade Drakensberg Challenge canoe marathon on the weekend, and has hinted that his month away from paddling may well aid his chances of bagging a third win in the two-day race on the Umzimkulu river in Underberg.

Jenkins has been conspicuous by his absence this summer, failing to secure a partner in time to seriously challenge for the Hansa powerade Dusi K2 title, and missing the Stihl Non-Stop Dusi.

He did however show his natural talent and form when he and Deon Bruss won the Umkomaas marathon in tough, hot, demanding conditions at the beginning of the month.

The Pietermaritzburg engineering student has a habit of downplaying his form, and often trains away from the limelight. In the past his lay-offs from competitive canoeing have resulted in top class performances, which will count in his favour this weekend.

“The Drak is short and sharp, which will suit me,” said Jenkins. “Hopefully the river will be full and demanding, and I can give it good go.”

“I am a social paddler now,” he added, the comment dripping with understatement. “The field is really strong once again, so it is going to be very competitive at the front.”

Jenkins has won his last two outings, and has completed ten Drak Challenges, making him one of the race’s seventeen “Drak Trouts”, who have completed ten or more of these marathons.

In 2006 Jenkins was locked in a ferocious battle with Hank McGregor on a full river that ended when McGregor capsized in the nasty Glenhaven rapid, allowing Jenkins to race away to win in a record breaking time.

He also holds all the senior men’s race records, having set new fastest times for the overall race and the second stage in 2006, and the best first day time in 2004.

“I will give it a good go, and if I am there or thereabouts I would love to win it again,” he added. “Having done the race ten times helps with the knowledge of the river in different conditions. It does your confidence goods to know what to expect.”

Jenkins will line up on the startline at Castleburn bridge alongside other class contenders like Sven Bruss, Hank McGregor, Ant Stott and junior Grant van der Walt. With more rainfall expected in the Southern Berg catchment areas, the race promised to held on a full river.

The Hansa Powerade Drakensberg Challenge takes place in Underberg on 23 and 24 February. Late entries close on Wednesday 20 February at midnight. More information is available on the race website at www.drak.co.za

ENDS

MyPicture.com

MyPicture.com

MyPicture.com