LANGEBAAN – Fourteen-year-old Ryder Rousseau has returned from Switzerland with a bronze medal after an outstanding performance at the Wingfoil Junior World Championships.

The championships, held on Lake Silvaplana in the Swiss Alps, attracted more than 120 of the world’s top junior wingfoil racers.

Competing nearly 1 800 m above sea level in cold conditions and unpredictable mountain winds, Rousseau adapted quickly to unfamiliar waters and produced a string of consistent results to finish third overall.

His podium finish is one of the biggest achievements yet for the young Langebaan sportsman and adds to the West Coast’s growing reputation as a breeding ground for top watersports athletes.

“It’s a dream come true to win a bronze medal at the World Championships,” Rousseau said.

“Racing against the best junior riders from around the world pushed me to improve every day, and standing on the podium is something I’ll never forget.”

He thanked his title sponsor, Ensis Watersports, as well as his family, coaches and supporters in Langebaan for helping him reach the world stage.

“I am incredibly grateful to Ensis Watersports for believing in me and supporting me every step of the way. I’d also like to thank my family, coaches and everyone back home in Langebaan for always supporting me. This medal belongs to all of us.”

At just 14 Rousseau has already established himself as one of South Africa’s leading young wingfoil riders and hopes to build on his success as he continues competing internationally.