Paddling for a good cause

Cape Town photographer John Hishin normally spends his time behind the lens, taking action shots of a variety of sports. But faced with a lack of events to cover because of the Covid-19 lockdown, he has decided to take the opportunity to participate in a canoe marathon and raise funds for charity. Hishin, who runs Cape Town Sports Photography, has photographed the Berg River Canoe Marathon for the past 12 years. This year’s event was cancelled, but organisers created a virtual event that allows paddlers from around the globe to complete the equivalent 240km distance of the Berg River Canoe Marathon on any water body anywhere in the world. Hishin and his partner, Taz Pollock, have decided to make their kilometres paddled on Zeekoevlei do “double duty” by raising funds for local charity The Little Optimist Trust. The Trust, which uses sailing therapy days to inspire disadvantaged youngsters, is based at the Zeekoevlei Yacht Club. “We would like to use every kilometre we complete to help raise funds for The Little Optimist Trust to help those in need in these trying times we all find ourselves in, especially as there are some who find themselves falling on much harder times than others.” Hishin and Pollock will complete the 240km paddle by tomorrow, Friday July 31, and are aiming to raise a minimum of R6 700. For more information on how to donate, email amy@brookebuckland.com or call Amy Mac Iver on 082 884 6233.