Winkle-Toti-Winkle event - 16 December 2008

The annual Winkle Toti Winkle multi-discipline event is set to take place on December 16 at Winklespruit Beach in Southern KZN.
The event has been running for over 40 years, and just last year event organiser Mark Barber decided to branch out from its original focus on paddling and beach running, to include bodyboarding and kitesurfing.

“The idea is to celebrate the coastal lifestyle we all enjoy here on the South Coast,” said Mark.  “We all enjoy what the ocean has to offer, and so it is a wonderful opportunity to come together under the umbrella of one event.”
The event is essentially a festival celebrating the great conditions on offer along this stretch of coastline for all watersports athletes - paddlers, kiters, runners and bodyboarders. The fact that the event takes place on a public holiday - Day of Reconciliation - is an added bonus as it means that most people can make it down to the beach for some much needed time out from the hectic Christmas rush.

The event is set to be a bumper one this year, with something on offer for the whole family. There will be flea market stalls to browse, plenty of sporting action to watch, and delicious food and ice cold beer on sale all day from the Winkle Lifesaving Club.
All competitiors can enter on the day, and the entry fee is R50 for all the divisions.
The runners and paddlers will, in accordance with tradition, set off at 9am. The bodyboarders will start slightly earlier to take advantage of the waves, while the kitersurfers will wait for the wind to signal the start of their event.

Downwind shuttles and safety boats will be provided on the day for all kiting entrants. All those wishing to participate must have registered by 9am (no later), and be available for the safety briefing that will follow directly after. Bring the whole family down, to participate in the other events, or to simply soak up the sun. Good news is - the wind is looking promising!

Bodyboarding promises to deliver plenty of action on the day. “Southern Natal Bodyboarding are lending us a hand with the event so it promises to be as well run as it is exciting,” said Mark.
Spectators can look forward to be serious displays of talent by some of Southern Natals' rising star, as well as local legends, on the day.

Local paddling stars Michelle Eder and Oliver Burn are looking forward to the event, and would like to issue a challenge to other paddlers.
“Its going to be great competing here along the South Coast where we live,” says Michelle. “I'd definately like to see how any out-of-towners handle our conditions, as they have a reputation for being quite challenging.”
“Its a beautiful stretch of coast to paddle along said Oliver. ”And I also want to invite as many paddlers from other areas to come and join us for the race. Not only is it great experience, but its a great day out and very social.“
Lauren Felgate will also be making her Winkle Toti Winkle Debut this year. “Its my first time doing the race,” she says. “ But I'm really looking forward to it, and I'm sure it wont be the last.”

The run holds its own set of challenges, as the complete distance is done on sand which is a true test of fitness for the athletes. However, there are many walker entries every year, and done at this more gentle pace the distance becomes a great way to add diversity to your fitness routine and even social if you enter with some friends.

The kitesurfing event is set to add colour to the seascapes. The kiters will most likely start off with a fun downwind to Winkle Beach from Amanzimtoti, and then compete in expression sessions, as well as mens, ladies and junior events.

There are great prizes to be won,“ says Mark. ”As well as lucky draws and raffles. Those who want to be a part of the event as sponsors, donate prizes etc, will be allowed a stretch of beach in which to advertise their products with banners, and do demos or displays.
Anyone interested taking a stall at the flea market can also call Mark on 084-259-8083.