COASTAL EPIC: 50 years, 244km and countless stories — gruelling surf ski race gets its own book
Stories of human endurance, lasting camaraderie and the beauty of the Eastern Cape coastline are captured between the covers of the newly published book on the PE2EL Surf Ski Challenge.
The PE2EL Surf Ski Challenge, a grueling 244km paddling race along South Africa's Eastern Cape coastline, has been chronicled in a new coffee table book. The event began in 1972 when two Johns, John Woods and John Ball, challenged each other to a race between Port Elizabeth and East London, now known as Gqeberha and KuGompo. Over the years, the race grew into a life-changing experience for participants and spectators alike, with stories of camaraderie, endurance, and personal transformation.
In 2021, a team of dedicated enthusiasts decided to document the history and experiences of the PE2EL Surf Ski Challenge. Over two years, they gathered newspaper articles, race records, photographs, and personal stories, which were carefully curated, written, edited, and compiled into a premium hard-cover coffee table book. The book's publisher, Gavin Harvey, describes it as an encyclopedia of the event, showcasing not only the scenic coastline but also the remarkable individuals who contributed to its success.
The race takes place every two years in December, with paddlers navigating the offshore route from Bluewater Bay in Gqeberha to Nahoon Beach in KuGompo, with stop-overs at Woody Cape, Port Alfred, and Hamburg. The race's history dates back to 1972, when the offshore route became a regular challenge between paddlers from near and far. The first event, however, had no prize other than bragging rights, which were claimed by Ball in 1972.
For many participants, the PE2EL Surf Ski Challenge represents a crowning achievement, as they put their lives on hold to train for the event. Some have even claimed to have met God during the race, as described by Thomas Murray in the book. The book also highlights the NSRI's partnership with the event, as its support is crucial for the safety of participants in unpredictable sea conditions.
The PE2EL Surf Ski Challenge has captured the interest of paddlers, travelers, tourists, and people from all walks of life, with book launches held across the country. The book's release aims to build a lasting legacy and promote the event locally and globally.
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