After an initial postponement due to rough seas, South Africa’s top surf ski athletes competed in the prestigious Engen Ballito Downwind on Sunday, 11 May 2025. The final event of the inaugural Paddle Fest, organized by South African Surf Ski and sponsored by Engen Ballito and The Pumpsmith, boasted perfect racing conditions. Notable winners included Hank McGregor and Michelle Burn, who spearheaded a field of elite competitors to take home the KZN titles.

Race Director Barry Lewin commented on the sublime conditions experienced between Tiffany’s Beach and Blythedale Beach, where paddlers navigated an 18.5 km course. “The surf was challenging but manageable, allowing for an even start, with Hank McGregor securing an early lead,” noted Lewin. Similarly, in the women’s race, Michelle Burn dominated from start to finish.

Reflecting on the victory, McGregor, an 11-time World Canoe Senior Marathon Champion, described the event as a “fantastic day out,” expressing his delight in claiming the KZN S1 title for 2025 amidst strong competition.

Michelle Burn shared her excitement after the event, stating, “I was thrilled that the race was able to proceed as I’ve been eagerly anticipating racing on the North Coast. The conditions provided a true test of surf ski skills, making the event thoroughly enjoyable.”

Engen Ballito Downwind Results

Men’s Division

  • 1st: Hank McGregor (Ballito, KZN) – 1.03.57
  • 2nd: Matthew Bouman (Umhlanga, KZN) – 1.05.23
  • 3rd: Brent Chiazarri – 1.07.08

Ladies Division

  • 1st: Michelle Burn (Umhlanga, KZN) – 1.12.22
  • 2nd: Saskia Hockley (eMdloti, KZN) – 1.14.34
  • 3rd: Mikaela Brown – 1.39.59

U23 Men

  • 1st: Kwanele Banda – 1.16.17
  • 2nd: Ty Heyns – 1.16.33
  • 3rd: Senzo Ngcobo – 1.18.13

Junior Division

  • 1st: Keegan Vogt – 1.10.17
  • 2nd: Luke O’Connor – 1.15.39
  • 3rd: Jayden Jansen van Rensburg – 1.16.43

The successful Paddle Fest 2025 commenced with a coaching session for beginners at Durban Underwater Club, featuring a range of races culminating in the Engen Ballito Downwind. Enthusiasm is already building for the next major event, the 2025 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Champs.