Despite four consecutive K1 titles at the Dusi Canoe Marathon, Christie Mackenzie is still chasing that elusive first K2 crown and 2026 is the year she plans on completing the goal.
Mackenzie is teaming up with long-time friend and marathon partner Saskia Hockly for this year’s race from 19-21 February and the pair will be eager to fight it out for the overall title in the women’s race.
It was a strong start to their partnership as they won the 50 Miler recently, edging out the impressive Abby Solms and Robyn Groenink by just over ten seconds.
They then backed up that performance with a dominant win at the Inanda Dam to Durban race on the following day. These two results have put them directly into the pound seats ahead of the Dusi in under a month’s time.
The pair did team up to win the 2023 Fish River Canoe Marathon title as well and they have also won ICF Canoe Marathon World Championship medals individually and as a pair which proves their pedigree both in a K1 and K2.
Hockly doesn’t possess an extensive Dusi record, however she has won many titles and earned podium finishes in marathon and ocean racing events around the world. This tenacity is something that Mackenzie will be calling during the three days of racing.
“Quite simply, she is incredibly reliable and never gives up,” Mackenzie said about partner Hockly. “I really identify with the way she races, gritty, composed, and determined – and it mirrors how I approach racing myself. That shared mindset is our biggest strength as a combination.”
The goal is for the Team Euro Steel pair is to win the race and they are excited by the prospect of going up against the best K2 combinations in South African women’s paddling.
Winning a first K2 title would be special for Mackenzie but doing it with Hockly will be more memorable.
“If Saskia and I were to win, it would be my first K2 Dusi title. I’ve had a number of silver medals in the K2 over the years, but securing a title alongside a close friend would be extremely special and something I’ve been working toward for a long time.”
With three weeks to go until the start of the Dusi, paddlers won’t have the luxury of the N3TC Drak Challenge this year to get some racing preparation under their belts. Mackenzie has mapped out the preparation for her and Hockly.
“Our main focus will be spending as much time in the boat together as possible. While I do a lot of K1 training, K2 time is very accessible for us, and we plan to fully capitalise on that to refine our rhythm, communication, and efficiency.
“We’ll aim to do as many pre-races as possible to build familiarity with the river. Tripping will also be a big part of our preparation, as understanding the river in different conditions is critical and gives us valuable confidence come race day,” Mackenzie added.
The multiple Dusi champion has always paddled with a smile on her face and shown a positive attitude throughout which has been a cornerstone of her success. Going into 2026, that attitude will not change and it helps in making the K2 experience more memorable.
“The K2 Dusi is special because of the full experience – the tripping, getting home in between the two days, and sharing the journey. Doing a Dusi with great company, plenty of laughs, and memorable adventures along the way is what makes it so enjoyable for me.”