The Cape Point Challenge, widely considered the most gruelling one-day surfski race of the year, took place on Sunday 16 December.
It was the 26th edition of this challenge.
The race, which covers the distance from Scarborough to Fish Hoek, was dominated by familiar names such as Hank McGregor, Kenny Rice and four-time World Surfski champion Dawid Mocke, who scooped up a silver medal (following Hank McGregor, who took first place).
The race lived up to its reputation, being cut short due to precarious weather conditions, with dangerously high wind speeds of around 25 to 30 knots.
“The conditions were tough and it was a challenge, as it tested every single bit of skill and ability that I had.
“Securing a second place finish in this prestigious race was an awesome feeling,” said Dawid Mocke.
Mocke has won the event twice before and considers the race to be close to his heart.
“I was thrilled to have raced against Hank and Kenny; they are excellent paddlers who made the race equally challenging and exciting for me.”
The Scarborough to Fish Hoek event is usually 52km long and generally brings about a sense of camaraderie among competitors, united in the challenge against not only each other, but also nature’s elements.
“It’s not over for me yet but I am slowly moving into the latter stages of my career, where I’m focusing more on the Mocke brand, which includes a summer surfski school and a range of premium apparel (sold online and via retailers) as well,” Mocke concluded.