Grant van der Walt interview

Sunday, 30 May 2010 11:53

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Grant van der Walt

Varsity College student, double world champion (2008 and 2009), reformed Gautenger and all-round nice guy Grant van der Walt is enjoying life on the wave of paddling in his city of choice, Durban.

Explain how the tie-up between you and Varsity College came about?

I heard quite a lot about the Varsity College brand in High School. Every year participation in the sport has just grown and I was lucky enough to get an offer to study at Varsity College after High School and race in their colours.

Why study in Durban?

Why not? Durban has so much to offer. I spent my school career in Johannesburg and I was lured by the beach life in Durban. In Joburg you spend half the day stuck in traffic. To get down to the beach and be training in five minutes is a big bonus.

Has Varsity College made it easier for you to be a pro paddler?

Yes. They understand my commitment to the sport, which is great. Throughout school I kept being told that I couldn’t go to sporting events because I would be missing classes but at Varsity College they’re actually encouraging me to race.

Any big plans for the year?

I’m committed to river and surfski racing this year and racing as much as I can. I do want to compete at World Marathon Champs this year but that obviously comes down to selection. There are plans for a Varsity College canoe league where campuses around the country compete against each other, which I’m looking forward to.

Have you ever thought of competing in other sports such as running or cycling?

I do a bit running as well as cycling. As part of Varsity College I did the Jeep Msinsi Series last year, which was great. Whenever I have some time off I’ll get the bike out or the running shoes and give it a go.

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