Epic surfski challenge returns

NSRI Station 6, as well as several others in the region, are gearing up for the PE2EL Surfski Challenge, one of South Africa’s most scenic open ocean races, spanning 250 kilometres from Gqeberha to East London.

If you’re in search of adventure in a breathtaking coastal setting, mark your calendar for the 2023 PE2EL Surfski Challenge. This extraordinary four-day, open ocean race spans 250 kilometers from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) to East London. It has been a cherished tradition for surf ski enthusiasts and local NSRI stations for over 50 years.

“It attracts the most hardcore paddlers, both local and international,” says Ian Gray, Regional Representative for the Eastern Cape and former station commander of Station 6 (Gqeberha).

“The first one I was involved with was in 1982, but Station 6 had been involved for a couple of years before I joined the NSRI. Initially, it was a support role, but for the past 20 years or so, we have run all safety for the event, both land and sea-based, to the extent that organisers have stated that the event cannot proceed without us. We’re victims of our own success!” he laughs.

What began as a modest competition has evolved into a monumental event, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Border Canoe Club in East London and the invaluable support of the NSRI.

The event kicks off on Wednesday 6 December at 6am from Blue Water Bay Beach, from which paddlers will pass on the Western (inside) side of St Croix Island, and head across the bay towards Woody Cape. Day two ends at Port Alfred, day three at Hamburg Beach, and on day four, East London’s Nahoon Beach.

(Of course, the route may be altered at the race committee's discretion depending on prevailing weather conditions.)

“As it has grown and developed, we have been able to include more stations in the event’s safety, to the extent that five out of the seven regional stations are directly involved in providing crew and assets,” says Ian. “Hopefully by the 2026 event, all seven will be represented.”

Apart from Station 6, Station 7 (East London), Station 11 (Port Alfred), Station 36 (Oyster Bay) and Station 37 (Jeffries Bay) will also provide safety support.

While the NSRI’s prime objective is to ensure the safety of participants, the crew are indirectly able to obtain vital experience from the event, says Ian. Volunteers benefit from operational sea time in a controlled environment, exposure to the challenges of unfamiliar areas, as well as team work and collaboration – probably the most valuable benefit. “The crew have to work seamlessly across the stations, often with guys they haven’t met before,” says Ian.

PE2EL 2023, like its predecessors, promises to be a test of endurance and skill for the approximately 60 contestants who will be navigating the route. The 2023 fleet is expected to comprise of around 50 surf skis (a mix of singles and doubles), accompanied by a fleet of seconds and organisers, including NSRI crew, ensuring that every aspect of the race is meticulously planned and safely executed.

To find out more, visit the Border Canoe Club’s website or the event’s Facebook page. If you’d like to enter, visit the Canoeing South Africa portal here.

If you would like to assist the work of the NSRI volunteers overseeing the event’s safety (who require sustenance, sun block, eye drops, hydration, and so on), please contact Ian Gray at gray@searescue.co.za