President Ramkalawan meets with dream chaser Paul ‘Fisher’ D’Offay |17 April 2021

President Ramkalawan with Paul D’Offay yesterday at State House (Photo: Joena Meme)

Following his exploit a fortnight ago where he crossed the sea between Mahé and Praslin in a kayak, Anse à la Mouche resident Paul D’Offay was welcomed at State House yesterday by President Wavel Ramkalwan who congratulated him on his achievement.

Affectionately known as ‘Fisher’, 69-year-old Mr D’Offay said the challenge has always been one of his dreams and despite negativity and discouragement, he remained focus in chasing it.

During yesterday’s meeting with the head of state, Mr D’Offay discussed a lot on the country’s drug crisis and how sports and other leisure activities can help to mitigate the calamity.

He noted that as a concerned citizen and a patriot, he is ready to lend a hand, through his expertise, to encourage the youth to choose sports activities over drugs.

Mr D’Offay clocked exactly ten hours to complete the challenge which ended at Baie Ste Anne Praslin, after leaving Port Victoria at 1.30am.

Addicted to his canoe and prepared for the challenge for only three weeks, Mr Morel said he is planning on doing more challenges to encourage the youth and be a role model.

He thanked Evans and Norcy Morel for their support and encouragement which he said was crucial in completing the challenge.

Roland Duval