Jemma Smith and Cory Hill secure Australia's first mixed SS2 world championship

Australia secures historic mixed SS2 title

Australian paddler Jemma Smith achieved her second gold medal within two days, partnering with Cory Hill to clinch the mixed surfski double title at the Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships held in La Vila Joiosa, Spain.

This victory followed her triumph just a day prior, where she secured her third women's surfski single championship. Smith's consecutive wins marked a truly remarkable performance during the event in Spanish waters.

Boasting a combined total of seven SS1 world titles, Smith and Hill forged a powerful alliance, determined to secure Australia's inaugural mixed SS2 championship.

The Australian pair faced significant challenges from a strong field of competitors, including South African duos Jade Wilson and Hank McGregor, Kira Bester and Kenny Rice, and Georgia Singe and Robert Hart, alongside Portugal's Sara Sotero and Bernardo Pereira.

Despite the intense competition, Smith and Hill demonstrated exceptional resilience, ultimately pulling ahead of Wilson and McGregor during the decisive final 500 meters of the race.

Although Hill experienced a momentary stumble upon disembarking the boat at the beach finish, he quickly regained his composure, crossing the line to secure victory with a time of 1:07:15.

Wilson and McGregor claimed the silver medal, finishing with a time of 1:07:25, while their South African compatriots Singe and Hart secured the bronze, clocking in at 1:07:54.

Athlete reactions

Reflecting on the achievement, Smith expressed her elation: "It feels absolutely incredible. Being out on the water today was fantastic, and it truly was a demanding race. Given it was our first time paddling together, crossing the finish line in first place feels truly amazing."

Hill, who had previously secured third place in the men's SS1 event on the opening day,...

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