Pietermaritzburg - Organisers of the Hansa Powerade Dusi Canoo Marathon are in the process of designing a new start outside Pietermaritzburg because of the health hazards associated with E coli bacteria derived from human faeces. This is as a result of raw sewage flowing into the river in the greater Pietermaritzburg area.

Dangerously high levels were measured throughout Pietermaritzburg in December which alarmed the organisers.  Measurements on December 27 showed counts above the start averaged 20 000 per 100 ml which is quadruple the level that organisers would be happy with.

Signs were put up at the Natal Cane Club at Camps Drift in Pietermaritzburg  warning paddlers of the health risk.

The Dusi is the largest canoe marathon in the world and a record international entry is expected. The event generates over R30-million in direct spending in the region and the international marketing value is measured at R125million.