The Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club athlete claimed four gold medals during her first national championships appearance since 2019.
South Africa (08 May 2026) – When Kira Bester returned to the South African Lifesaving Championships this year, she arrived with purpose, confidence and four gold medals to show for it.
Representing Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club and Team Velocity Trade, Bester produced one of the standout performances of the 2026 championships by completing a clean sweep of the Open Ski events, winning gold in the Individual, Double, Relay and Taplin races.
For the Cape Town athlete, though, the performance was about far more than podium finishes.
This year marked her first appearance at a Lifesaving Nationals since 2019, and she says a lot has changed since then.
“It felt great. The community is such a welcoming one, with athletes showing so much gees towards their mates and their clubs.”
Looking back on her previous national championships experience, Bester admitted she approached racing very differently in her younger years.
“I was a totally different person back then, still very much a child physically and emotionally. My approach to racing was unplanned, just a full send mindset.”
That approach has since evolved into something far more measured and strategic.
“I’ve grown up a lot in my style of racing. Now I approach a race with a lot more thought, tactics and strategy.”
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How Do We Keep Matric Dances Special Without Making Them So Expensive?That maturity was clear throughout the championships as she raced with composure and control in every ski event, particularly during high-pressure moments where races are often decided by fine margins.
Her strong showing at Nationals followed a successful summer competing in Cape Town’s Rescue Sport Series, which she believes played a major role in building confidence and consistency ahead of the championships.
Now, after a memorable return to the national stage, Bester has already shifted focus towards the upcoming World Championships at Kings Beach.
“Super excited. I feel really hopeful for the team in getting some world class results.”
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