For over 30 years the Riverland Paddling Marathon has attracted paddling enthusiasts from across the country on the June long weekend as they paddle one of the most iconic rivers in Australia in the Murray River.
Paddle SA member, and wheelchair rugby Triple Paralympian, George Hucks, a passionate para canoe paddler, took on the ultimate challenge of the Murray 200 Marathon – 208 kilometres, over three days from Berri to Morgan.
Hucks has taken part in the Murray 100 in previous years, but this year decided to take on the 200 and push the limits.
“I wasn’t sure if I could do it so I took it day by day. The first day was double the distance of anything I had done before and to get through it was amazing,” said Hucks.
Preparation for any event, especially a marathon, is key and for Hucks, there was a lot that went into preparing for event.
“Over the last 12 months I did double sessions, 2.5 hours a day, four sessions a week. We did a six hour trial four weeks before and got through about 50 kilometres.
“Being a para paddler I couldn’t get out and stretch like able bodied athletes do at the checkpoints… I had to spend nine hours in the boat a day which knocks you around. It was great to be able to do the event with my coach, Jayden Ellis,” he said.
Marathon paddling continues to attract more and more people each year, and Hucks believes there is no reason people can’t give it a go.
“I always say Marathon paddling is just like sprint paddling, it is just further. If you have the ability to stick at something and push on, why not have a crack at marathon paddling because you can be competitive.
“With paddling you can keep going regardless of age…. I am 53 and can keep going.
“After being a Paralympian for all those years it is hard to do something recreationally. So doing something that is competitive and keeps pushing you is great.
Want to try your hand at marathon paddling? Find out more >>> click here.
