After a spirited Parade of Nations, Team South Africa has set the tone for an inspiring week at the 2025 ISA World Para Surfing Championships in Oceanside.
California, USA (04 November 2025) – The spirit of South Africa was on full display in Oceanside, California, as Team South Africa made a strong start at the 2025 ISA World Para Surfing Championships.
The Parade of Nations marked the official opening of the event, with Sabelo Ngema leading the team, Noluthando Makalima waving the national flag high, and Raemondo Lessing symbolically pouring sand from Cape Town and East London into the Sands of the World ceremony. A beautiful tradition that celebrates unity across all nations through the power of surfing.
Once competition kicked off, the South Africans wasted no time in making their presence felt. Team Captain Ant Smyth, a two-time World Champion, delivered an excellent performance, finishing first in his heat with a total score of 15.10. Defending champion JP Veaudry also impressed, securing second place in a fiercely contested round to advance to the next stage.
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The team’s confident start has set the tone for an exciting week ahead. Coach Sam Christianson applauded their focus and determination.
“Team South Africa started off strong on Day 1 in some challenging conditions. It’s definitely putting a good foot forward for the team to build momentum for the rest of the week. The energy in the water feels quite similar to back home.”
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“It’s motivating to watch the team perform, it sets the bar high for those of us still to surf.”
With favourable conditions and a promising swell forecast for the days to come, Team South Africa is in a strong position to keep building momentum as the world’s best para surfers continue to chase glory.
Every wave caught by a South African surfer adds another chapter to a growing story of resilience and pride on the global stage.
Be on the look out for more results as the athletes continue to make waves at the 2025 ISA World Para Surfing Championships.
Sources: Surfing South Africa
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