Most paddling fans will be well-acquainted with the achievements of the Louw brothers. In 2008 they had the impressive distinction of securing a medal placing in every local event they entered including a 5-medal haul at the 2008 SA Canoeing Championships. In 2009, Greg and Ryan Louw have shifted their attention to the international paddling scene and are currently competing in events in Europe and North America.

Ryan (left) and Greg Louw will be hoping to bring more medals from Europe and North America

At the start of August, Greg left for the World Sprints Championships in Canada. More used to the two-man K2 events, Greg will be competing in the K1 event against Olympic-level paddlers. Ryan Louw is now competing at the Sella River Boat Race in Spain. For Ryan, the challenge is to display the required endurance in the 20km and 30km marathon races over a 3-week period.

After the races in Spain and Canada, the brothers will meet in London to pair up for the UK Championship competition before heading off to Dublin, Ireland to defend their title in the Liffey Challenge. Upon their return, the Louw brothers will have their sights set on finishing the year with a victory at the Fish River Marathon which will take place in their hometown of Cradock.