Date: 2025-10-20 15:16:37

Durban Successfully Hosts Ocean Racing World Championships

ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DURBAN SUCCESSFULLY HOSTS OCEAN RACING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

Durban’s golden mile was alive this past weekend when it successfully hosted the ICF Ocean Racing World Championships. 

This is the first time that an African country hosts this event, which took place along the City’s coastline.

Ocean paddlers from over 30 countries participated in the thrilling competition, which began with the mixed surf-ski double, before paddlers battled it out for the women’s and men’s SS1 races. 

South Africa’s Kira Bester successfully defended her women’s SS1 title while Cory Hill from Australia took the crown for the men’s SS1 race. 

Durban’s stunning weather, warm waters, friendly and hospitable spectators added flair for participants with the loud cheers. 

The global paddling event presented a unique opportunity to position Durban as a premier sports tourism destination, aligned with the Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan, the National Sport and Recreation Plan, and the City’s 2030 vision.

Hosting the championship also added to the City’s economic growth through sport tourism, fostering social cohesion and reinforcing Durban’s beachfront as a world-class sports and leisure precinct.

ENDS

Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.