Rice and Smith secure senior titles at ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships

Thrilling finishes at ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships

The ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships in Portugal delivered an exhilarating day of competition, culminating in new champions being crowned. South Africa's Kenny Rice extended his nation's impressive record in the men's event, while Jemma Smith secured a historic first senior women's title for Australia.

Men's Senior Race: Rice Claims Victory

In the men's senior race held in calm conditions at Viano do Castelo, Kenny Rice executed a powerful sprint to outpace his compatriot Hank McGregor. This triumph marked South Africa's fourth men's title across the six world championships contested since 2013. Rice, who previously finished second to his brother Sean (a two-time world champion) in 2019, expressed his surprise at leading the race.

"It felt a little strange; I honestly didn't realize I was at the front," Rice commented. "I was just pushing hard, saw Hank on the inside, and focused on racing him to the finish. I had a really strong final section. It was a tough race, and I gave it everything."

He added, "I tried to stay with the pack initially, then reassessed after the first five kilometers and really pushed. After 12 kilometers, I was just hoping for a top-five finish, but nearing the end, I felt I had the advantage and just kept telling myself to close it out. I'm incredibly proud to bring this win home for my family."

Hank McGregor earned his second silver medal, while Australia's Mackenzie Hynard secured his inaugural senior world championship medal with a third-place finish.

Women's Senior Race: Smith Makes History

The women's race quickly evolved into a compelling duel between Australia's Jemma Smith, the U23 world champion from 2019, and New Zealand's Danielle McKenzie, the 2019 senior world champion. Smith demonstrated exceptional control during the latter half of the course, ultimately clinching...

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