Local paddlers shine in Italy

Fourways resident Jordan Klopper was among several Gauteng paddlers who represented the country in the World Sprint Championships in the U18 and U23 categories.

The paddlers were selected to go to Italy after achieving in the South African Sprint Championships.
South Africa had a team of 11 paddlers competing in the annual world championships, and Klopper only had positive things to say about his experience there.

“Italy was very exciting, we got to perform at a higher level than ever before. Competing among 1 100 athletes from 65 countries is very different to our local conditions where on a good day we have 200 competitors. We raced well and are very happy with our performance given that we have been racing together for a very short period,” said Klopper.

He expressed how much he enjoyed participating in the sport. “Canoeing is an escape from the day-to-day routine, you feel at one with the water. The speed when sprinting is exhilarating, and very rewarding when you achieve a specifically quick run. What makes it even more fun is seeing your time get faster, and working with a coach who believes in you and guides you to improve is very rewarding.”

The regatta started with a memorable opening ceremony where all the teams walked through the small town with their respective country’s flag, with support from the residents cheering them all on.

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