2009 Champ, Plettenberg Bay’s Michéle Eray, will be back to defend her title against stiff competition at the MTN Nelson Mandela Bay Splash Festival in Port Elizabeth on Friday, organisers confirmed on Tuesday morning.
“Hopefully the conditions will be nice. Last year there was a south-easterly and a bit of surf. I haven’t looked at the predictions for this week, but it’s always exciting to race there.”
Eray’s biggest opposition is likely to come from New Zealand’s Katie Pocock, the reigning world champion who has flown in especially for the race. “It sounds like PE has really put on a high-vibe Easter. I’m a bit nervous about how the body will cope with all the racing, but I’m stoked to be part of the festival.”
Pocock said she was quietly confident, without taking anything for granted. “Ocean paddling is all about adapting to the conditions, so I guess I always expect the unexpected.” The world champion believed it would be tough to beat the titleholder. “Michéle has been in outstanding form over the last few months and will be tough to beat at home.
“I know that she is doing some coaching over here and I’m sure she will be bringing along some of her protégés, who will undoubtedly be fierce competitors as well.”
Eray, on her part, was confident of getting the better of Pocock. “I raced her twice last year and beat her both times.” She however pointed out that there were a number of “quick” girls in the field. “Everyone you race is a threat. You can’t underestimate anyone.”
A prize pool of R45,000 is up for grabs. For more information, contact the festival office on 041 393 4844 or visit the Splash Festival website.
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