Sixty year old cancer survivor Doug Hodson shows that anyone can be a part of the adventurous Avon Descent, if they are willing to put in the effort.
Kenya born Doug Hodson has recently retired from a long career in the oil and gas industry.
During this time, he and his wife raised two sons and now live in Perth.
In 2008, Doug had an operation to remove cancerous cells.
His left leg became difficult to move and he relied on a plastic splint, but that did not stop his love for adventure.
He replaced his love of running for a sport that focuses on his upper body strength – kayaking.
Doug started to kayak and formed a strong friendship with other kayakers on Saturday mornings where he practiced flat water rafting.
In 2013, he discovered the Avon Descent and he quickly became eager to participate.
Since then, he has competed in three Avon Descents.
Competing in a Team of two in 2016, Doug and his racing partner Roland Bodt, chose a team name, very close to Doug’s heart – “Sock it to Sarcoma”.
By displaying not only the name on his paddle, but also wearing the foundations color pink, he raised awareness for Sarcomas, which a rare form of cancer.
The Avon Descent is a 45 year old institution where participants paddle or motorboat a 124km race from the Avon valley in Northam to the Swan River.
This year the event will run from August 5-6 and kicks off in Northam.
Competitors can focus of flat water or test themselves by going on the rapids.
Over the years, Doug competed in two teams of four and one team of two, something Doug strongly recommends.
“I think it’s more fun if you’re in a team than if you’re on your own, because you’ve always got someone interested in going with you,” he said.
