South Africa bags two silvers and two bronzes at the Canoe Marathon World Championships, with rising stars and seasoned pros sharing the spotlight.
Györ, Hungary (09 September 2025) – Team South Africa made waves at the ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships in Györ, Hungary, bringing home two silvers and two bronzes in a display that mixed veteran with fresh and exciting talent.
All eyes were on Andy Birkett, who once again proved why he is one of the country’s most reliable paddlers. Stepping up in the men’s K1 after Hamish Lovemore was forced out through illness, Andy delivered a masterclass in the water. With Denmark’s Mads Pedersen surging ahead, the real battle was for silver and Andy made sure it was his. That medal marked his ninth career podium finish at world championships, adding to an already glittering record.
But the real breakout story belonged to teenager Keegan Vogt. Just a year after missing out on a medal in heartbreaking fashion, the Maritzburg College pupil bounced back in style, grabbing two medals. A silver in the junior K1 and a bronze in the junior K2 with partner Ryley Smith. Keegan showed nerves of steel in the K1, pushing Ireland’s Sean Butterly to the line, and then dug deep with Ryley for yet another podium finish. His performances lit up the regatta and ultimately underlining South Africa’s bright future.
Not to be left out, there was also Jade Wilson who kicked off South Africa’s medal tally with a brilliant bronze in the U23 women’s K1. She nearly doubled her haul when she paired up with Jenna Nisbett in the senior K2, finishing just outside the medals in fourth place.
While the absence of Hamish left some wondering what might have been, the team still had plenty to celebrate. Between Andy’s consistency, Keegan’s fearless racing, and Jade’s rising star power, South Africa showed it can compete across generations.
By the end of the regatta, the squad sat 11th on the medal table. They told the story of a team blending experience with youthful flair and a future that looks promising.
Sources: Supplied
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