After more than a decade away from the global spotlight, African whitewater activities took another step forward as paddlers from across the continent lined up at the International Canoe Federation Canoe Slalom Ranking Race in Underberg, South Africa.

It was a clean sweep for South Africa in the men’s kayak, with James Gotte delivering a standout performance on home water to win in 100.97. He faced stiff competition from fellow South Africans Scott Venniker, second in 101.19, and Iain Rennie, third in 101.39.

In the women’s K1, Hannah Trower delivered a strong showing to secure the win in 116.18. Warris Mills crossed the line with a faster raw time but incurred a total of 56 penalty seconds, dropping her overall result to 162.70.

The men’s canoe saw Senegal’s Jean-Pierre Bourhis take top honours with a standout time of 92.25, while Mauritius’ Terence Saramandif finished second in 100.18.

Momentum continues as the ICF development camp takes place this week, whilst next weekend will see the African Canoe Slalom Championships commence.

The Continental Championships will feature athletes from South Africa, Mauritius, Senegal, Kenya, and Namibia.