Some moments remind us exactly why we do what we do. This February, at the annual West Coast Canoe Challenge, six boys from Lambert’s Bay- proudly representing Project Sunwave- gave us one of those unforgettable moments. Competing in the stand-up paddle (SUP) division just two months after learning, they not only paddled with skill and determination but also carried the hopes and pride of their teammates back home on their young shoulders.

This was more than a race. It was a showcase of courage, growth, and what they can achieve when they set their mind to it.

Racing with Heart

Held in February in Veldriff, the West Coast Canoe Challenge brought together hundreds of paddlers from across the province for racing along the Berg River. For our group of Sunwave paddlers, aged just 10 to 16, this was their first major event, first time paddling not in our local waters, and for a few- the first time leaving Lambert’s Bay. They were stepping into unfamiliar territory but they took it in their stride and made our team incredibly proud.

Each of the boys trained for weeks leading up to the event. From only starting the Stand Up Paddleboarding module in December, these youngsters showed true water skills, determination to learn, and supported each other every step of the way. Their results speak volumes:

🏆 Deklin Andrews (12) – 1st place in SUP, and an incredible 5th overall (U14 all craft)

🔥 Devrou Cloete (16) – 2nd place in SUP, 3rd overall (U16 all craft)

💪 Eliah Cloete (13) – 3rd place in SUP, 7th overall (U14 all craft)

🌊 Dewandry Cloete (10) – 5th in SUP, 8th overall (U12 all craft)

⚡ Elton Jantjies (13) – 7th in SUP, 9th overall (U14 all craft)

🦁 Roberto Harris (14) – Stood tall for the full 5km, and crossed the finish line with heart and grit

Each child pushed their limits, and every finish was a victory. Perhaps the most inspiring moment came from Roberto, who was still new to paddling and smaller than many of his peers, who stood tall on his board for the full 5km. In doing so, he showed us what real courage and determination look like.

A Community Behind Every Paddle Stroke

Behind these victories are countless unseen acts of support. Early morning lifts. Encouraging words from family. Coaches who gave their time and energy. And the kindness of local sponsors who stepped up when it mattered.

A special thank you goes out to OK Foods Lambert’s Bay (@oklambertsbaai), who generously sponsored the boys with food hampers to fuel their race day.

Moments like these remind us how much can be accomplished when a community wraps around its youth.

More Than a Race: A Glimpse of What’s Possible

At Project Sunwave, we believe in long-term investment in young people. We use ocean sports like surfing, SUP, and swimming not just as recreation, but as platforms for building life skills: resilience, confidence, discipline, and leadership.

This event was a perfect example of that vision in motion. It wasn’t just about medals or rankings (though those were certainly celebrated!). It was about self-belief. It was about watching a 10-year-old paddle into a race against older kids and refusing to give up. It was about watching a teenager take 3rd overall, then double back to encourage his younger teammates still on the course. That’s what Project Sunwave is all about.

What Comes Next

This is just the beginning. These results have lit a fire. Not only in the boys who raced but in the kids watching from land, dreaming of being next. With continued support, we aim to enter more regional events, improve our program resources, and make sure every child in Lambert’s Bay who wants to try, can.

We are currently fundraising for equipment upgrades and travel costs to future races. If you'd like to be part of their journey, contact us, follow us on Instagram, or reach out directly. Every bit of support helps build this wave of change.

A Town to Be Proud Of

To Lambert’s Bay: be proud. These boys are our ambassadors. Their strength reflects your strength. Their victories are your victories.

We’ll leave you with this thought: When young people are given belief, support, and the chance to shine, there’s no telling how far they’ll go.