The South African Waveski Surfing Association (SAWSA) will be rubbing shoulders with the surf-cultures elite brands and organisations, later this month. Join us at the Cape Town International Convention Centre for the Surf Expo Africa (SEA) from 28-30 November 2025.
The South African Waveski Surfing Association is the oldest association to promote and develop the sport, across the globe. Since its establishment in the 1970’s, the sport has grown into an international discipline, now featured on the world stage under the governance the World Waveski Surfing Association and International Canoe Federation. For generations, waveski surfing has been a way to experience the inertia and power of the ocean while sitting and paddling into the face of a wave.
From young to old, beginner to elite; waveski surfing is a sport that welcomes all ages, dynamics and abilities. The adaptive and aged communities in particular have found freedom and confidence through the support and stability a waveski provides – proof that the ocean offers space for everyone.
SAWSA is passionate about showcasing waveski surfing, not only as a competitive sport, but as a lifestyle and culture. A connected community of ocean lovers that expands across the globe. South Africa’s competitive momentum has accelerated significantly in recent years, with remarkable progress from its junior athletes on the international stage. Cape Town riders, Courtney Schelhase and Jethro Keys have risen to the top of the World Waveski Surfing Rankings, demonstrating courage, discipline and strong representation for the nation. South Africa continues to build momentum and hone competitive depth in the lead-up to the ultimate pinnacle event in our sport – the World Waveski Surfing Championships, taking place in Peru in October 2026
Growth
“The growth within the sport over the past few years has been tangible and exciting. Watching women waveski surfers soar through the sky on their boards at the 2024 World Waveski Surfing Titles hosted at Nahoon Reef, South Africa, was a standout moment for our sport internationally” shared chairwoman of South African Waveski Surfing Association, Trystan Viaene.
The film Take a Seat 2, set to release this December, will further spotlight waveski surfing globally and will feature South African athlete Bruce Viaene, who has climbed rapidly up the world rankings in recent years. His journey reflects the grit and commitment that define the South African waveski community.
The Surf Expo Africa provides the perfect platform for waveski surfing to be showcased for what it truly is – a powerful lifestyle and a world-class competitive sport. With the generous support and collaboration with Ocean Enginerring, SAWSA will host an exhibition stand (D13), creating an engaging space to connect with the surfing community, inspire future athletes and showcase the evolution of waveski technology, performance and opportunities.
“As a lifelong waveski surfer and someone who earns his living keeping vessels safe at sea, I’m thrilled to financially support SAWSA in showcasing our incredible sport to a wider audience. The ocean has given so much to all of us – this is Ocean Engineering’s way of giving back to the community that shares our passion” shares Louis Botha of Ocean Engineering.
Expo
Visitors attending the Surf Expo Africa can explore demonstration boards, paddles, fins and seating systems, view film screenings including Take a Seat, and engage directly with coaches, top surfers and development leaders shaping the future of the sport.
Find the South African Waveski Surfing Association at Stand D13.
