Young powerboater for world stage

By Wendy Sa Joe

EAST LONDON -- A well-spoken, slightly shy Siyabuswa Skosana, 14, who is scared of water, has been chosen to participate in the National Ports Authority World Powerboat Cup.

Siyabuswa is from Mdantsane and a Grade 6 pupil at Baysville School.

The competition takes place in Cape Town on February 23 and 24.

"I am going alone to Cape Town, this will be my first time that I will be competing outside East London.

"I am very nervous, but I am going to try my best," he said.

Siyabuswa is part of the South African national development programme team.

The development team consists of youngsters who live in townships and have been taught how to use powerboats.

"I started in 2000 when I was still attending Southernwood primary.

"A teacher asked us who would like to do it, and I said 'yes'.

"At first I was very nervous, but we were taught in a group.

"I drive alone in the powerboat," Siyabuswa said.

The group practices on some Saturdays for an hour or two.

He won his last two races, making him the best in the region. Eight of the best development children, and the eight best juniors from different regions will compete against eight international visitors.

For the first time in South Africa, national colours have been approved for the junior team.

Siyabuswa has been nominated for national colours.

His family support and help him in any way they can.

"My family are very proud of me and excited," Skosana said.

All the juniors will be competing on the same level, they will be racing identical Water Mice powerboats powered by 15hp Mercury engines.

Siyabuswa will be leaving for Cape Town on Wednesday.