In a performance that will be remembered for years to come, Cape Town’s Shane Jansen van Vuuren set new a new South African free-diving record at the inaugural Durban Undersea Club Cup (DUC) competition in Kings Park.
Van Vuuren’s record, achieved in the discipline of Dynamic No Fins (DNF), spanned an impressive 155 metres on a single breath, earning him a place in the rankings.
The four day competition brought free-divers from the Western Cape, Gauteng and from neighbouring country Mozambique.
President of International Association for the Development of Apnea Alessandro Sacerdote commended all athletes who participated in the event, but singled out Van Vuuren his incredible feat.
“We are so proud of Shane’s achievement, and that of all athletes who took part in this inaugural event.
“For the vast majority, this event served as their introduction to competing in an official event registered under AIDA South Africa, the national division of AIDA International, a globally recognised rule- and record-keeping freediving certification agency,” said Sacerdote,
During the competition a total 34 free-divers achieve new personal bests (BP). DUC committee member Angie van der Hoogen thanked everyone involved with competition.
"We want to express our deep gratitude to the DUC for their incredible support in hosting this competition, along with all our volunteers and safety team who worked together to make it possible.
“We look forward to establishing the DUC Cup as an annual event and a key fixture for the local freediving community, furthering the sport's growing development and recognition in South Africa.” DUC Committee Member, Angie van der Hoogen.
The winners
2024 winner: Shane Jansen van Vuuren
Women: Wendy Paarman (1st), Arenea Becker (2nd), Ashton Deyzel (3rd).
Men: Shane Jansen van Vuuren (1st), Ryan Becker (2nd), Leigh Riley (3rd).
IOL Sport