Birkett looking to defend Berg River title

After pipping Hank McGregor to win his first ever SA K1 flatwater marathon title last weekend, Birkett has his eyes set on winning next week's marathon, which starts in Paarl next Wednesday.

Birkett won the race last year in his first ever appearance. 

Looking ahead to the K1 and K2 2015 Marathon World Champs later this year, Birkett told Gameplan Media he was excited to compete next week to further his preparations.

"I am keen to get down to do the Berg again this year. It is an awesome race and it is a very important part of my build-up (to the world champs)."

The Pietermaritzburg resident will only travel to the Western Cape a day before the race - preferring to follow local paddlers who know the river well.

"If I went down for a month before then I could lead the way and show the guys where to go," said Birkett. "Luckily there are some nice guys down there with good manners on the river, who don't really want to shaft me too much, so I'll have to hope that they show me where to go again."

"It’s a long way and for me it's a bit of a logistical nightmare. I think I will just sleep in the barn each night and keep it as simple as possible," Birkett added.

Despite winning the title last year, Birkett said the 220km race was gruelling.

"It was cold, putting on beanies and two or three hallies and long pants when you are busy paddling. But that is all part of it. There is a cool 'gees' down there and I really enjoy it," Birkett said.

(File Photo: Gameplan Media)

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