The organizers of the Fish River Canoe Marathon have confirmed the deaths of two participants on the first stage of the race near Cradock on Friday.
Chairperson, Roy Copeman says 53-year-old Pretoria paddler, Axel Marggraf died after falling out of his K3 canoe in the Soutpansdrift rapid, while 31-year-old Amanzimtoti resident, Dean Chiazzari died after suffering a suspected heart attack after withdrawing from the race.
He says Chiazzari withdrew from the race and was transported back to Cradock when he suffered a suspected heart attack.
Copeman send his condolences to the families and friends of the two paddlers and said that the entire paddling community has been shaken by the double tragedy.
"No words can describe the pain we are all feeling at this time," said Copeman.
He praised the race rescue and safety personnel who responded quickly to both instances.
"Our safety teams and divers, together with a group of volunteers assisting and seconders at the scene went to great lengths, risking their own lives, to assist in locating and reaching the missing paddler," said Copeman.
"The response was fast and effective but sadly we were not able to save the paddler", he said.
Copeman says a full investigation into both tragedies has been launched.
