The Masters Surf competition at the 2025 DHL Lifesaving South African Championships took center stage on Sunday at King’s Beach in Gqeberha, delivering an exciting and memorable day of racing. Amid perfect conditions, South Africa’s top veterans in lifesaving showcased their exceptional skills in a series of thrilling events.
Under clear skies and ideal surf conditions, a large contingent of Masters athletes took to the water, competing in a range of events that included beach sprints, flags, surf swims, board races, and ski races. Spectators filled the beach, showing enthusiastic support for the athletes as they battled it out in both individual and team events.
The competition was fierce, but the spirit of camaraderie and sportsmanship stood out throughout the day. The Masters category is unique in its celebration of seasoned athletes competing for pride, club honor, and the enduring love of surf sports. These values were clearly on display, with athletes of all ages putting their best foot forward.
In one of the day’s key events, Shannon Cain of Hobie Beach narrowly defeated Paul Herbert from Umhlanga in the Masters 50-plus flags event, adding to the excitement of the day.
At the conclusion of the Masters Surf Club competition, the final standings saw Fish Hoek Lifesaving Club clinch first place, followed by defending champions Summerstrand Lifesaving Club in second and Umhlanga Rocks Lifesaving Club in third.
“Today was a celebration of our Masters community at its very best,” said Craig van Rooyen, Director of Sport at Lifesaving SA. “The conditions in Gqeberha were spectacular, and the large number of entries, along with the amazing family support, made it a day to remember.”
As the Masters competition wrapped up, attention now turns to the younger generation of lifesaving athletes. On Monday, the Nipper Surf Championships will kick off with an opening ceremony at 7:30 a.m. at King’s Beach. Simultaneously, junior and senior athletes will begin their campaigns at Newton Park Swimming Pool, setting the stage for more exciting action at the DHL Lifesaving South African Championships.