14-05-2025
Ballito paddlers dominate Engen Ballito Downwind challenge
Ballito's Hank McGregor led a dominant North Coast performance at the Engen Ballito Downwind, storming to victory in challenging open-ocean conditions on Sunday.
Last month's 18.5km race was postponed due to poor conditions, but the race went ahead on Mother's Day. North Coast paddlers dominated last year's event, and it was more of the same this year. The Tiffany's to Blythedale Beach race saw three North Coast surf skiers take top honours in the four race categories.
Ballito's Hank McGregor (1:03:57) and Brent Chiazarri (1:07:08) finished first and third respectively in a top-class men's field. Umhlanga's Michelle Burn (1.12.22) won the ladies' race, with Saskia Hockly, from Umdloti (1.14.34), in second.
Hockly also finished top in the U23 division, while Tinley Manor resident, Ty Heyns (1.16.33), took second in the Men's U23. Ballito's Keegan Vogt (1.10.17) took top spot in the Juniors division.
This was the final event of the inaugural Paddle Fest – organised by South Africa Surf Ski. Despite some rough seas, race director, Barry Lewin, said it was perfect for racing.
'The Engen Ballito Downwind was treated to sublime open ocean conditions between Tiffany's and Blythedale Beach. The surf, while challenging, wasn't too difficult,' said Lewin.
Eleven-time World Canoe Senior Marathon Champion, McGregor, enjoyed the race and the conditions. He praised timing of the race.
'It was a great launch that was timed right with the weather. The organisers waited long enough for a great downwind, but it wasn't too out of control. It was a fantastic wind that was super fast,' he said.
Burn, was 'very stoked' the race went ahead.
'I've been looking forward to racing on the North Coast and it didn't disappoint!' she said.
'There was a wonderful wave to navigate at the start and finish – it was a proper taste of surfski which we haven't had for a very long time so I'm glad that this race is on the calendar. The entire race was great; it was a good distance – not too long and you don't get too tired. Everyone had a good time.'
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