Resounding vote of confidence for Dusi race organisers
The findings also showed that 88% of respondents rated both the organisation of the event and communication as good to excellent
The organisers of the Dusi Canoe Marathon have received a major vote of confidence from competitors after the 2026 participant survey revealed high levels of satisfaction with South Africa’s iconic paddling event.
According to the survey, 91% of participants rated their overall Dusi experience positively, while an equal percentage said they would recommend the three-day race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban to others.
The findings also showed that 88% of respondents rated both the organisation of the event and communication as good to excellent.
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In another encouraging sign for organisers, 76% of paddlers indicated they are certain to return for a future edition of the world’s most famous canoe marathon.
Participants singled out the dedication of volunteers as one of the event’s greatest strengths, praising their enthusiasm and support throughout the race.
Competitors also commended the organising committee, the scenic route through the Valley of a Thousand Hills, improved WhatsApp communication and enhanced media coverage.
Despite the overwhelmingly positive response, paddlers highlighted several areas where the event could be further improved.
River safety, the positioning of hydration stations, increasing participation numbers, enhancing the experience for first-time competitors and developing the race village were among the key recommendations.
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The organising committee said the survey results will play a vital role in shaping plans for future editions of the marathon. Among the immediate priorities are reviewing river safety protocols, improving hazard marking and assessing the placement of hydration points.
Longer-term objectives include expanding national marketing campaigns, attracting additional sponsorship, strengthening digital storytelling and further positioning the Dusi Canoe Marathon as Africa’s leading river endurance event.
The survey also highlighted the event’s commercial value, with organisers noting the strong loyalty among participants and the deep emotional connection paddlers have with the race.
They believe this presents significant opportunities for sponsors through experiential marketing, community engagement and digital activation.
Dusi Canoe Marathon chairperson Doug Gow welcomed the findings, saying they confirmed the event’s enduring appeal.
The survey confirms what many of us already know, that the Dusi Canoe Marathon remains a bucket-list event that creates lifelong memories for those who take part.
“While we are incredibly encouraged by the levels of satisfaction recorded, the feedback also gives us a clear roadmap for improvement,” said Gow.
“We are committed to listening to our paddlers and using these insights to make the Dusi even stronger, safer and more enjoyable for future generations.”
Organisers will use the survey findings as part of their planning for the 2027 edition while continuing to build on the race’s rich heritage, community spirit and reputation as one of South Africa’s premier endurance events.
