April presented an extraordinary opportunity for a heady mix of leisure mixed with work, not just marked by a series of significant public holidays, but also for me, by unforgettable experiences in the waters around Cape Town. Freedom Day weekend specifically, provided a powerful backdrop for reflection, as I had the privilege of participating in a series of remarkable surfski paddling events.
The weekend began with the South African Surfski Single Championships, a demanding paddle from Long Beach in Simon’s Town, navigating towards Miller’s Point before heading to Fish Hoek beach. Conditions proved challenging from the start. Initially paddling directly against the wind tested my endurance and resolve, but the true test began after the turn at Miller’s Point towards Arc Rock. Heavy mist descended swiftly, transforming the familiar coastline into a disorientating maze. Finding the finish became an exercise in careful navigation and needed some determination. Despite the conditions, luckily, the challenge ended well in my case, catching a satisfying wave onto the beach at Fish Hoek. I had started, participated and finished. A simple yet profoundly rewarding journey.
The following day offered entirely different conditions: A serene morning paddle in a double surfski from Fish Hoek beach to Roman Rock Lighthouse and back. This gentle journey set the stage perfectly for the upcoming Prescient Freedom Paddle, held on Freedom Day itself.
The Prescient Freedom Paddle is a special and deeply meaningful event, held annually on the 27th of April. A 27-kilometre course symbolises the 27 years Nelson Mandela spent imprisoned for his fight against apartheid. This iconic paddle starts from Granger Bay, circles Robben Island—a potent symbol of both struggle and resilience—and returns. This year, conditions were exceptional, the sea reflecting the brilliant clarity of the Cape Town sky.
Dylan Browne and I teamed up in a double surfski, our goal clear: Completing the paddle in under two and a half hours. With determination and teamwork, we crossed the finish line in a rewarding two hours and twenty-five minutes. Happiness! The ocean conditions were spectacular—tranquil yet energising, offering breathtaking views of Robben Island’s historic silhouette and the majestic backdrop of Table Mountain on our return journey.
Paddling around Robben Island is always an emotional journey. lt almost feels like a personal commitment to remember, honour and celebrate the freedom that defines our country today.
Reflecting on this experience, I am reminded of the privilege of enjoying such moments in our beautiful country. Freedom, both personal and collective, allows us the joy of exploration, the challenge of pushing boundaries and the satisfaction of shared accomplishments. But like Kim mentioned in her own reflections, freedom carries responsibility. The freedom to paddle in open waters also requires safety precautions, preparation, respect for nature and an awareness of one’s own significant limitations.
In business, the parallels are striking. The freedom of entrepreneurship allows us to chart our own course, pursue our visions and adapt swiftly to changing conditions, much like navigating through unpredictable waters. Yet, this freedom demands discipline, strategic thinking and an unwavering commitment to our clients, team and community.
As we return to work after these meaningful holidays, I carry with me the lessons from the surfski races: Persistence through challenge, clarity amidst uncertainty and the lekker of achieving goals through teamwork. Whether paddling across the ocean or steering our agency, the balance between enjoying freedom and exercising responsibility is key.
Here’s to paddling forward, navigating both business and life with purpose, clarity and gratitude.
