The South African ocean paddling team is set to compete in the ICF Ocean Racing World Championships in La Vila Joiosa, Spain, from October 9-11. The team, led by veteran captain Dawid Mocke, is on a mission to retain their position as the top ocean-paddling nation in the world. South Africa has won the team title for three consecutive years and is looking to claim their fourth title in a row. The team features a potent squad of current and past World Champions, including reigning world champion Kira Bester and marathon legend Hank McGregor.
The South African team boasts an impressive lineup of experienced paddlers, including Nicholas Notten and Kenny Rice, both former senior World Champions. Uli Hart, a former U23 and mixed doubles World Champion, and Hank McGregor, with a decorated career in South African paddle sport, add to the team's depth. The women's team is equally formidable, with Kira Bester, Jade Wilson, a former U23 World Champion, and Melanie van Niekerk. The team also features a new generation of up-and-coming talent, including Samuel Mocke, Dawid's son, who will compete as the defending Junior World Champion.
The team will face stiff competition from host nation Spain, emerging European teams, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Australia, led by current men's world champion Cory Hill, is expected to be a strong contender, while New Zealand and the US will also be in contention for medals. The ICF Ocean Racing World Championships will feature a range of events, including senior and junior categories, with a total of 18 teams competing.
Dawid Mocke, a four-time World Series champion, has an unmatched depth of international racing experience and is well qualified to lead the team. Despite being a household name in international surfski paddling, Mocke has surprisingly never won an individual world championship title. He will travel to Spain alongside his son Samuel, marking a first for the South African team.
The South African team features a strong lineup of younger age-group categories, including Saskia Hockly, a former U23 and current Mixed Doubles World Champion, and Holly Smith, also a former Mixed Doubles World Champion. The team also includes a potent group of emerging junior paddlers, underlining the depth of talent within South African ocean racing.
The team's coach and manager, Gameplan Media, has expressed confidence in the team's chances of success. The team's preparation has been extensive, with a focus on building on their previous successes. The ICF Ocean Racing World Championships will provide a platform for the team to showcase their skills and compete against the best in the world.
The South African team for the ICF Ocean Racing World Championships includes: Senior Men: Nicholas Notten, Kenneth Rice, Ulvard Hart, Hank McGregor, Dawid Mocke; U23 Men: Matthew Rory Coetzer, Luke Le Roux, Matthew Coetzer; U18 Men: Samuel Mocke, Ryley Smith, Keegan Vogt; Senior Women: Kira Bester, Jade Wilson, Melanie van Niekerk; U23 Women: Saskia Hockly, Holly Smith, Nicola Harcus; Junior Women: Isabella Strydom, Alayah Krogscheepers, Hanna Solomon.
Key points
- South Africa aims to claim fourth consecutive team title at ICF Ocean Racing World Championships
- Team features potent squad of current and past World Champions
- Team will face stiff competition from host nation Spain, emerging European teams, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States
