Durban, South Africa — October 17–19, 2025
Durban’s famous Golden Mile will come alive this October as the world’s top ocean paddlers converge on South Africa’s east coast for the 2025 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships, a landmark event that celebrates the country’s deep connection to surfski racing.
Hosted by PaddleSport South Africa at the Durban Undersea Club (DUC) and Point Water Sports Club (PWSC), the championships will see elite athletes and passionate paddlers from around the globe tackling the unpredictable Indian Ocean in search of world titles across senior, U23, junior, and masters categories.
A Global Showcase of Ocean Racing
Running from 17 to 19 October 2025, this year’s edition marks the 9th ICF Ocean Racing World Championships and promises to be one of the most memorable yet. The event forms the centrepiece of a full week of activity along the Durban coastline, with hundreds of paddlers joining in supporting events, open races, and community festivities leading up to race weekend.
Depending on wind and sea conditions, the three-day race window will see competitors take on one of several spectacular courses, from Durban to Amanzimtoti (28 km under north-easterly winds), Durban to Westbrook Beach (34 km under south-westerlies), or a DUC–Umhlanga–DUC loop in lighter conditions. If the ocean turns rough, alternate inshore or harbour courses stand ready to ensure safe but thrilling racing.
South Africa’s Elite Squad Ready to Defend Home Waters
With South Africa recognized globally as a powerhouse in surfski racing, local fans will have plenty to cheer for. A formidable Team South Africa will line up across the senior, U23, and junior divisions, a mix of world champions, rising stars, and seasoned campaigners who know the Durban coastline better than anyone.
Senior Team
- Kira Bester
- Nix Birkett
- Uli Hart
- Saskia Hockly
- Mark Keeling
- Hank McGregor
- Nick Notten
- Kenny Rice
- Holly Smith
- Melanie van Niekerk
U23 Team
- Georgia Singe
- Jade Wilson
- Matt Coetzer
- Reef Funston
Junior Team
- Alayah Krogscheepers
- Jared Shrimpton
- Cody Stallard
- Ellen Strydom
The presence of icons such as Hank McGregor — one of the most decorated paddlers in world canoeing, alongside young talents like Saskia Hockly and Reef Funston, highlights the depth and continuity of South African ocean racing excellence.
Championship Schedule
The excitement officially kicks off on Thursday, 16 October, with a Parade of Nations and Opening Ceremony at DUC following the compulsory pre-race briefing. Racing takes place within the three-day window from Friday to Sunday, with the SS1 (single surfski) races taking preference based on the best wind and swell conditions.
Date | Time | Event |
Thu 16 Oct | 14:00 | Compulsory pre-race briefing @ DUC |
15:00 | Parade of Nations | |
16:00 | Opening Ceremony | |
All day | Unofficial training | |
Fri 17 – Sun 19 Oct | TBC | SS1 or SS2 World Championship racing (conditions dependent) |
Sun 19 Oct | 15:00 | Medal Ceremony & After Party @ DUC |
Messages of Welcome
Kim Pople, President of PaddleSport South Africa, expressed her pride in hosting the world:
“Our federation is absolutely delighted to welcome paddlers, families, and supporters from around the globe. Ocean Racing is an integral part of our paddling culture, and it’s our wish to share that passion with the world. So gear up, train hard, and we’ll see you in Durban soon.”
Race Director Colin Simpkins reflected on the event’s deep local roots:
“Durban holds a special place in the history of our sport, it’s where a group of lifeguards first paddled the long-distance open ocean race in 1957, from Pirates Lifesaving Club to Umhlanga and back. South Africa’s coastline offers some of the best downwind racing conditions on the planet, and we’re ready to show the world why.”
Perfect Conditions, Perfect Host
With warm waters, steady trade winds, and Durban’s reputation for world-class hospitality, competitors can expect a true paddler’s paradise. Safety teams, support craft, and course flexibility will ensure exciting yet secure racing throughout.
Beyond the competition, the event will also showcase the vibrant spirit of South African paddling, with Durban’s beachfront culture, friendly community, and post-race celebrations promising an unforgettable experience for visiting teams and fans alike.
A Proud Moment for South Africa
Hosting the 2025 World Championships places South Africa once again at the center of global paddling, reaffirming its status as one of the sport’s leading nations. For the local stars donning green and gold, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to chase world titles, right at home, in the same waters where the sport’s global story began.
“Stunning weather, warm water, and an ultra-friendly paddling community, Durban is ready to make history once again.”
Event: ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships 2025
Dates: 17–19 October 2025
Location: Durban Undersea Club (DUC) & Point Water Sports Club (PWSC), Durban, South Africa
Organised by: PaddleSport South Africa, in partnership with the International Canoe Federation (ICF)
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