2027 African Open and PWW World Ranking Race
6-7 February, Balam River Deck, Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Combined Slalom and Kayak Cross Venue
The race venue is a beautiful grade 1-2 rapid which will provide the perfect location for Africa's best canoe slalom athletes.
Kayak Cross Open
The Kayak Cross events will be open to all kayakers as part of the Paddlesport South Africa slalom committee drive to grow the sport.
Thrombi X-Fest Kayak Cross Pre-Event
Running the weekend before, on January 30th will be the Thrombi X-Fest Kayak Cross race. Entry into the African Open includes free participation at this event!
Kayak Cross History
In 2026, this venue played host to the first ever African Championships for Kayak Cross and this year we continue on that legacy
South Africa has pioneered the approach of “Kayak Cross First” to drive the growth in the sport and our team will be looking to put together some good results!
Gateway to the international events
This event doubles up as our national team selection for the 2027 World Cups and World Championships. Allowing new athletes to get a taste of international World Ranking race level compeition before competing at the higher level events is an important development process.
Volunteers Key to Event Delivery
Paddle Worldwide level 3 events require a lot of manpower to run. We are fortunate to be supported by a big squad of volunteers who will be assisting in managing the event and ensuring a successful event.
If you want to get involved, feel free to reach out to the event manager: don@canoeslalom.co.za
Khotso Lodge and Horse Trails will be the official race village and accommodation partner for the event. They are well known in the paddling community as many paddlers stay here to paddle on the river during summer! We are very happy to have their support in delivering this event!
For accommodation bookings please visit: https://www.khotso.co.za/accommodation
Multiple accommodation options are available like camping, dormitories and a log cabin.
Partners
Paddlesport South Africa
Title SponsorPSA plays an important role in this event by providing a the framework and event support to allow us to deliver these events.
Sani Springs
Product SponsorSani Springs water is bottled on the same land as the race event! We are proud to have them supporting us as a product sponsor.
Khotso Lodge
Venue and AccommodationThe Khotso lodge and horse trails is the official accommodation venue for the event. Their coffee shop at the "Balam river deck" will be the race venue as well!
Lizzard
Product SponsorLizzard Rash tops are legendary and will be part of the kayak cross head to head gear that we will be using.
Paddle Worldwide
Supporting FederationPaddle Worldwide supports the event with entries as well as affiliation benefits such as media and publication. As Africa's only World Ranking Race, we always get great support from them!