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Christie Jo Mackenzie

(born 17 May 1999) is a prominent South African professional marathon kayaker and river paddler, recognized as one of the top female paddlers globally. She has garnered multiple accolades and is widely considered South Africa's leading female river paddler. Mackenzie has made a significant impact in prestigious canoeing events, particularly the Dusi Canoe Marathon, a challenging three-day race in South Africa, where she has consistently delivered strong performances. Her success in this event, along with her victories and top finishes in other international competitions such as the International Sella River Descent, has cemented her reputation as a leading athlete in marathon kayaking and river paddling.

Early Life and Education

Born in Pietermaritzburg, Mackenzie was raised across Southern Africa. She later pursued her academic studies at IIE Varsity College, where she excelled both academically and athletically. Mackenzie graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, followed by an Honours degree in Psychology in 2021. She was honored as the class valedictorian and awarded the top student accolade for her performance in the Honours in Psychology program.

Athletic Career

Dusi Canoe Marathon

Mackenzie made history in 2017 by becoming the youngest female athlete to win the Senior Ladies title at the Dusi Canoe Marathon. She is one of only three women to achieve three consecutive K1 (single kayak) titles, cementing her legacy in this event. Her accolades include multiple gold, silver, and bronze medals in both K1 and K2 (doubles kayak) categories.

ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships

In 2017, Mackenzie won her first bronze medal at the ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships. She has since earned bronze medals in the Under-23 K1 Ladies events (2021, 2022) and, in 2023, secured her first Senior Ladies K1 bronze medal. In 2024, Mackenzie and her partner Saskia Hockley achieved a Senior Ladies K2 silver medal.

International Sella River Descent

In 2024, Mackenzie claimed her maiden title in the K1 Ladies category at the International Sella River Descent. Later that year, she won her first K2 ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships medal with partner Saskia Hockley.

Other Major Competitions

Mackenzie has consistently excelled in the Drak Challenge and the Fish River Canoe Marathon, earning multiple gold medals.

Awards and Recognition

Mackenzie was named Sportswoman of the Year by Canoeing South Africa in 2018 and 2019. She has been awarded provincial and national colors in recognition of her sustained excellence in competitive paddling.

Sponsorships and Endorsements

Since 2017, Mackenzie has been sponsored by Euro Steel. She is also part of the Elite Athlete Development Program (EADP), which provides support for South African athletes.

Community Engagement

Mackenzie is an advocate for women's sports, writing articles for initiatives such as the Girls Only Project and mentoring young athletes.