Young canoeist making a name for himself
Alex Masina (21), a former La Rochelle resident, is an u-23 paddler and he is making a name for himself in canoeing.
THIS young and passionate canoeist is ready to take South Africa by storm.
Alex Masina (21), a former La Rochelle resident, is an u-23 paddler and he is making a name for himself in canoeing.
Just recently he participated in the South African Trial Sprint of 500m where he took second place and qualified for the Hungarian Senior Sprint World Championships.
The sensational paddler, who is a member of Natal Canoe Club, is preparing to take part in the China Marathon Championships in October.
He is currently living in Pietermaritzburg and is studying corporate communications.
He told the COURIER he fell in love with the sport at the age of nine while he was in Grade Four.
“My best achievement was in 2017 when I got a bronze medal at the junior championships in Pietermaritzburg. I have also won a few medals here and there.
“Currently, I’m preparing for two important races. The one in Hungary in August for the 500m and then the China Marathon,” said Masina.
Masina used to soccer in the streets. His mother, Elsie Chauke, reprimanded him to stop playing in the streets because she felt it was dangerous and he may get hit by cars.
She said after reprimanding him about playing in the streets, he decided to go and play soccer at Wemmerpan Park in La Rochelle.
“One day he came home saying there are these people who are paddling on the water and he wants to join them. I told him that he can do it and he just loves the sport,’’ she said.
According to Chauke, as a family, they tried making ends meet, especially while Masina was still in school. Masina is the last born child at home but his mother said he always tried to contribute so his family could eat.
“I raised Alex and his siblings alone. It wasn’t easy. We struggled and moved from one place to the next. But we survived and look at my boy now, he is one of the best paddlers around,” said a proud Chauke.
Masina gives his gratitude to Meyersdal resident Pete Rossouw from Sports4life and Ian Walker for assisting him to grow in the sports.
Rossouw, who played a big role in introducing Masina to canoeing, said Masina is an amazing athlete and he admires him for his dedication and passion for the sport.
Personal Information
Name: Alex Masina
Date of Birth: 2 February 1999
Place of Birth: Daveyton
Team: Natal Canoe Club
Friends: Peter Chissano and Mark Nicholas
Interesting facts about Alex
• The only male child at home.
• He was one of the A students in school.
• Loves socialising.
• He is a Christian.
