Helderberg surfski world champion Kira Bester was nominated for the Sportswoman of the Year award at the 19th South African Sport Awards alongside cricketer Laura Wolvaardt and middle-distance runner Prudence Sekgodiso, who ultimately won the accolade.

The ceremony was held at the Sun City Superbowl in the North West Province on Sunday 23 August, under the theme “Crowned by Greatness”. Bester, who defended her ICF Canoe Ocean Racing world crown in Durban last October – a victory dedicated to her late coach and mentor Pete Cole – described the experience as wonderful.

“It was a wonderful experience. I wasn’t selected as the winner, but I really enjoyed being out there,” she said.

Paddle Sport SA took to its Facebook page on Friday 28 August, posting: “Regardless of the result, you have raised the profile of ocean paddling for South Africa and no doubt will continue to set the benchmark for paddling excellence and inspire others to do the same. Well done, all the best and we are very proud of your success.”