The Prescient Freedom Paddle

The Prescient Freedom Paddle: Racing for history, community, and Cape Town’s waters

South Africa’s biggest surfski race, the Prescient Freedom Paddle, returns on Freedom Day, 27 April, with its signature 27km route around Robben Island – a tribute to the country’s history and resilience.

Now in its eighth year, this flagship event draws over 380 paddlers, from first-timers to world champions, competing in doubles, singles, S3s, ocean sculls, SUPs, and prone boards. A 10km short course, endorsed by Lifesaving South Africa, makes the race more accessible for juniors and less experienced paddlers.

But it’s more than just a race. The event highlights Cape Town as a global paddling and tourism destination, all while giving back through its ‘Paddling for a Cause’ campaign—supporting SANParks Table Mountain National Park’s Honorary Rangers and Operation Smile.

• Date: 27 April 2025
• Time: 7:30am – 2pm
• Location: Oceana Power Boat Club
• Cost: Entries from R850 | Enter here
• Event organiser: Treble Group