Bester and Pereira dominate as ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Series begins in Madeira

Dominant Start to the 2026 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Series in Madeira

The 2026 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Series commenced with an emphatic display of skill in Madeira, as South Africa's Kira Bester and Portugal's Bernardo Pereira secured victories at the season's inaugural event, the Madeira Ocean Racing Challenge.

Pereira Triumphs in Men's SS1 Race

Competing on his home waters, Bernardo Pereira, the reigning U23 world champion and a senior world bronze medallist, demonstrated why he is considered a leading figure in the sport. He expertly managed the men's SS1 race, crossing the finish line in an impressive 1:15:19.60.

Portugal showcased remarkable talent depth, with four athletes finishing within the top five. France's Marin Lanee was the sole non-Portuguese paddler to break into this dominant group, securing second place with a time of 1:15:50.07. He was closely followed by Mateus Ornelas in third, while Joao Santos and Celio Alves completed the top five.

Bester Commands Women's SS1 Event

In the women's SS1 category, world champion Kira Bester delivered a powerful and decisive performance. She pulled away from her competitors early on, claiming a convincing victory in 1:21:29.83.

The podium was rounded out by Great Britain's Rosemary Edwards, who earned second place with a time of 1:26:30.03, and Portugal's Carlota Duarte in third. South Africa's Julia Williams and Portugal's Rafaela Costa also achieved top-five finishes.

Favorable Conditions Enhance Racing

Despite initial predictions of calm waters, athletes were met with advantageous wind, swell, and current alignments. These "almost perfect" conditions, as described by Pereira, created fast, assisted runs, allowing paddlers to fully capitalize on the ocean's dynamics and significantly influencing the race outcomes.

Short Course Racing Adds Excitement

Beyond the primary long-distance event, Madeira also hosted...

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