Duncan chases elusive Avon win
It has been a long time between drinks for Avon Descent veteran James Duncan who this weekend returns to Northam to tackle one of Australia’s most prestigious white water races for the ninth time.
Duncan won the 124km epic in 2006 but since then has repeatedly fallen just short in his quest to recapture the title – last year forced to retire while in second position on day two.
“I didn’t have a very good first day but I worked myself back into second spot and had 30km to go to the valley when I holed my boat and had to pull out, ” Duncan said.
“The guy in front was a fair way away but it was still very disappointing and that’s really why I’m back to give it another go.”
The Avon has experienced a surge of popularity in recent years and now attracts top class competitors from the eastern States and all over the world.
Healthy winter rainfall means water levels are near perfect for the race, resulting in more than 500 entries for the event including four-time winner Hank McGregor and 2013 Dusi Canoe Marathon champion Lance Kime.
“Because the event has gotten so big now and we’re getting people from all over the world coming across it gives us a chance to mix it with the best of them, ” Duncan said.
“Obviously it has been a while since I won but the sport is getting bigger and bigger all the time and much more competitive so it is all good.”
Duncan is one of eight members of the Bunbury Surf Life Saving Club taking part in the Avon Descent and will race alongside first time competitor Blake Smaniotto in the open long plastics class.
“I’ve been a bit more focused and committed to surf club this year and really wanted to push myself and the Avon is a good way to improve my paddling, ” Smaniotto said.
“I haven’t done any races close to the Avon’s length but I finished fifth in the Northam to Toodyay earlier this month so I’m looking forward to it.”
Reigning Avon Descent women’s champion Claire Duncan is a notable absentee from this year’s field after taking out the title in both 2013 and 2012.
Claire was unable to train for the event because of university commitments.
“We’re getting people from all over the world coming across, it gives us a chance to mix it with the best of them” - – James Duncan
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