What Durban University of Technology (DUT) Sailing team did at the Pacer 27 Invitational Race was historical, a once in a lifetime moment. Their victory was pure dominance as the finals saw both DUT battling out and team Rapid Reach claimed the tittle.
Despite the challenging weather, the DUT team thrived and won the Pacer 27 race in style as they also became the first team to win the tournament after its 40 years lay off. The intense two-day race which took place on Saturday and Sunday (14-15 February 2026) at Durban Harbour, was organised by the King Shaka Yacht Club (KSYC) in collaboration with South African Sailing KwaZulu Natal and KZN Sport, Art and Culture.
The victory team, Rapid Reach crew members included Mr Sbonga Sibiya, Mr Siphosenkosi Nkwanyana, Mr Kwazokuhle Mnyakathisi, Ms Snenhlanhla Msani and Mr Thulebona Mkhize. They received trophy and medals for their stellar performance.
One of the crew members Ms Snenhlanhla Msani who is a DUT second year in Shipping and Logistics student, all the way from Lamontville, Durban could not hold her excitement, as she credited her team’s unity that saw them claiming the victory.
“I am over the moon, we worked very hard for this competition. Also, to our coaches thank you so much we really appreciate your contribution. To my team we did it and hopefully we continue succeeding going forward,” she described.
Mr Shamir Rampersadh who was one of the instructors who were preparing the teams for the competition, said it is not shocking to see the DUT team dominating the race because of their dedication and teamwork from the day one.
“They worked together and remained one unit. Despite the challenging weather they executed the technical skills that we taught them and to see them getting it done is a great moment,’’ he added.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Dr Thobile Sifunda from Sports, Arts and Culture; Mr Thami Mchunu of the KZN Sports Confederation; Mr Manqoba Bhengu, Acting Chief Director of KZN Sports, Arts and Culture; and Mr Sihle Ngubane, KZN Sports, Arts and Culture Administrator.
Also present were Mr Ntokozo Chonco, Political Advisor to the Mayor of the eThekwini Municipality; Mr Nqobani Dube from eThekwini Municipality Sports, Arts and Culture; Mr Aadil Khan, Head of Presidents at the KZN Sports Confederation; and Mr Yandisa Mdolomba, Sports Officer at the Durban University of Technology.
Pictured: DUT Sailing team at Pacer 27 Invitational.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Vukani Langa
