Defending the Crown: How Kira Bester Mastered the 2025 Surfski World Championship

Calm, composed, and deeply connected to the ocean, Kira Bester has established herself as one of the defining figures in modern surfski racing. The South African paddler’s 2025 season was not just a demonstration of physical dominance, but a reflection of maturity, consistency, and respect for the sea. Racing across continents and conditions, she carried the weight of expectation that comes with being a defending world champion  and met it with quiet confidence. Her world title in Durban marked more than another victory; it symbolized a journey shaped by patience, trust in preparation, and the enduring influence of her late coach and mentor, Peter Cole. In this interview, Bester opens up about her season, her mindset, and the values that continue to guide her on and off the water.

Hi Kira, to begin with, can you introduce yourself in a few words and tell us about your journey into surfski? Which performances from the 2025 season stand out to you as the most memorable of the year?

Hello, my name is Kira Bester. I am a South African surfski paddler and my journey into the sport grew naturally from time spent on the ocean. What began as curiosity slowly became something much deeper. Surfski challenged me both physically and mentally and I fell in love with the balance between effort focus and respect for the sea. Over time it became more than a sport. It became part of who I am.

Can you describe how you felt when you crossed the finish line in Durban and realized you were world champion?

The 2025 season was incredibly full and demanding, with racing across different countries and conditions. What stands out most are not only the wins but the races where I had to stay patient, trust my preparation and manage pressure and fatigue. Consistency throughout the season is something I am especially proud of. Being able to show up repeatedly and perform when it mattered made this year particularly meaningful.

Did you feel any particular pressure this season, especially as the defending world champion?

There was definitely pressure this season. Being the defending world champion changes expectations, both externally and internally. I felt a responsibility to perform consistently and to race with integrity. At the same time, I worked hard to turn that pressure into motivation. I reminded myself that I had earned my place and that trusting my preparation was the most important thing I could do.

Can we really talk about this world title without mentioning your coach and mentor, Peter Cole?

We cannot talk about this world title without mentioning Peter Cole. Pete was far more than a coach to me. He was a mentor and someone who believed in me long before results reflected it. He taught me how to think about racing, how to read conditions, and how to back myself when it mattered most. His influence is still present every day in how I train, how I approach challenges, and how I carry myself as an athlete. His legacy continues through the way I race and the standards I hold myself to.

What equipment did you use this season and at the World Championships, and how important do you believe equipment is in surfski performance?

This season and at the World Championships I raced on equipment that I trust completely, and I am incredibly grateful for the support behind me. I paddle on a Carbonology ski and use Mocke gear, both of which I rely on daily in training and racing. Having equipment that suits my paddling style and performs consistently in a wide range of conditions makes a real difference.

Beyond the physical equipment, the backing of my sponsors has played a huge role in my season. The support from BerryWorld, Velocity Trade, and Atlantic Outlook allows me to focus fully on preparation and performance. In surfski racing, equipment and support matter, but they never replace the work. They enable it.

Finally, what advice would you give to young paddlers who dream of becoming world champions one day?

To young paddlers who dream of becoming world champions, my advice is to fall in love with the process rather than the results. Be patient with yourself and stay consistent. Learn from every session and every race, whether it goes well or not. Surround yourself with people who support you and challenge you, and always respect the ocean. If you keep showing up with honesty, discipline, and passion, the results will come in their own time.

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