Kira Bester Claims 3 Wins Across 3 Oceans in 7 Days

Photo Credit: Jean Tresfon - Supplied

Surfski superstar Kira Bester dominated Atlantic, Indian and Mediterranean waters with three wins in just 7 days!

Global (08 May 2025) — South African surfski superstar Kira Bester has opened the 2025 season like a champion.

Claiming three wins across three oceans in just seven days; the reigning 2024 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Champion showcased a flair of dominance few could match.

The campaign began on home soil with a powerful performance at the South African Surfski Championships in which Kira outpaced the field on the 21k course from Simon’s Town to Fish Hoek.

“That win meant a lot,” reflected Kira. “It’s a “It’s a tough course that demands physical and tactical strength. I had to work smart, and draw on the strength of the paddlers around me. To take the title was a huge sense of relief and pride.”

Only a few days later, it was time for her next victory. Teaming up with powerhouse Melanie van Niekerk, the two tackled the Freedom Paddle—South Africa’s premier doubles ocean race around Robben Island.

“Mel was phenomenal in the back,” Bester said. “Her power and experience were unmatched, and I learned so much from her. I just focused on steering clean lines and keeping us efficient —it was a real team effort.”

The final leg of her whirlwind week was in Villajoyosa, Spain, where she secured the overall women’s title at the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Cup!

“This event has been on my bucket list for a while, so to win it was massive. The competition was world-class, and to come out on top on an international stage gives me huge confidence going forward,” she said.

While her results speak volumes, the campaign came with its challenges.

“Mentally, staying sharp through back-to-back races took a lot,” Bester admitted. “There were moments of doubt and exhaustion, but I leaned on my team and kept focused on one race at a time.”

Key to her success, Bester credits her training environment, singling out Pete Cole of the Orka squad for surfski preparation, and Mitch for gym-based strength and conditioning.

“The balance they bring to my routine — on the water and in the gym — has been a winning formula. I’m lucky to have them both in my corner.”

For younger paddlers watching her success, Bester encourages perseverance and confidence, sharing:

“Don’t be afraid to get uncomfortable — that’s where the growth happens. When I started, I was one of the few girls on the water and often felt out of place. But that became my motivation. Find your passion, show up every day, and celebrate the small wins.”

Looking ahead, Bester’s sights are now set on the 2025 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships, to be held in Durban, South Africa.

“It’s a huge opportunity to race against the world’s best on home soil,” she says.

“Durban’s ocean is unpredictable and exciting — I’m preparing hard and giving it everything I’ll be proud no matter the result, but yes, I’m absolutely racing to win.”