From struggle to supremacy: South Africa's Doctor race turnaround after a team lunch

Despite their recent triumph at the World Championships, a quartet of South Africa's elite surfski paddlers found themselves struggling during the Shaw and Partners WA Race Week. Kenny Rice, Hank McGregor, Josh Fenn, and Uli Hart had not met their high expectations, with local athletes dominating the podiums. The only male South African podium finish came from Mark Keeling in a sprint eliminator event.

A Pivotal Conversation Before The Doctor

On a Friday afternoon, just hours before "The Doctor," one of the world's most prestigious downwind races, the four paddlers gathered in their hotel room. Over lunch, they engaged in a frank discussion, acknowledging their collective underperformance. Rice described this as a crucial "pep-talk," emphasizing that despite surfski being an individual sport, they were united in their goal to improve.

Rice later reflected that this conversation was the catalyst for an extraordinary turnaround. The team felt immense pressure from home and decided to collectively strategize for the upcoming race, transforming their mindset from questioning their struggles to affirming their capability.

South Africa's Dominance in The Doctor

The very next day, their renewed determination was evident. While Australian powerhouse Noah Havard initially secured the Race One Hot Spot, the South Africans quickly asserted control. Kenny Rice chose a direct line towards the cardinal marker, a strategy that paid off as he established a significant lead. Despite not being able to monitor his rivals, Rice felt confident of victory with five kilometres remaining.

Rice ultimately crossed the finish line first, achieving a lifelong ambition and adding The Doctor title to his recent World Championship win. The South African contingent delivered a stunning performance, securing five of the top six positions:

• Kenny Rice: 1st (1:35:26)
• Mark Keeling: 2nd (1:35:33)
• Uli...

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