2008 saw the introduction of International Teams to the legendary 244km PE to EL Solo Challenge race held in the Eastern Cape of South Africa over the past 30yrs. It was an instant success and was won convincingly by an Australian team lead by Dean Gardiner. For 2009 the Southern Shamaal will offer a ‘Teams only, Downwind only’ edition of the event.

The PE2EL Challenge has been run every 2 years and it was agreed to leave the solo traditions of the original race untouched with future team events running on alternative years. So 2010 will see the Southern Shamaal run as a traditional ‘Challenge’ event with singles & doubles only.

 

Teams from all the major paddling nations will be invited to compete in the teams only 2009 event and competitors are welcome to form their own teams and identities. Teams consisting of 3 paddlers (one single & one double ski leg each day) can enter the race. Paddling will be downwind only on any given day.

 

The Race Director for 2009, Anton Erasmus, said: "The 2008 team event was a huge success and now we offer the very best downwind conditions on one of the most challenging coastlines in the World. Guys can come here, have fantastic downwind & really enjoy the event. Paddling will start at lunchtime each day (no more 4am wakeup’s, so have an extra Zulu Blonde). It is also perfect for those who want a small taste of what the PE to EL Challenge is all about before trying it solo.  However, saying that the Challenge is run in one direction and into the headwind if required, so is a very different animal, but you will get an idea and have a great time with your mates."