15-07-2025
Jordan Klopper: South Africa's rising star in canoeing
Jordan Klopper
Image: Supplied
As the world of competitive canoeing prepares for the 2025 International Canoeing Federation's (ICF) Junior and U23 Canoe Sprint World Championships, one young athlete stands out among the seasoned competitors. Jordan Klopper, an 18-year-old first-year BCom student at the University of Cape Town (UCT), is set to make waves as he represents South Africa for the sixth time on the international stage. Scheduled for 23-27 July 2025 in Portugal, the championships promise to be a thrilling contest, particularly as Klopper enters this new age category knowing he will compete against more experienced paddlers.
'This year I'm in a new age group (U23); and I'm quite young, as I'm only 18, and will be racing against guys much older than me,' Klopper shared. Despite the challenges, his mindset is refreshingly optimistic. 'I know they'll be very strong because the European competition is fierce; but going in, I have nothing to lose and everything to gain.'
Having embarked on his canoeing journey nine years ago, when he was just ten years old, Klopper's passion was sparked by a friend who shared tales of their training routines. 'I remember going to my parents and asking if I could give it a try – and ever since then, I haven't looked back,' he recalls of those early days.
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His journey into representing South Africa started back in 2021 when he was only in grade nine. With a drive to compete at an elite level, Klopper travelled to KwaZulu-Natal for trials, seizing what he dubbed a 'brilliant opportunity' to represent his country internationally. At the trials, he came away victorious in both the K2 500m and 200m events, achieving a commendable second in the K1 500m and 200m, alongside a second in the K1 5,000m category. 'I was chuffed about that," he said, reflecting on his successful debut year
As he prepares for the upcoming championships, Klopper will compete in both the 200m and 500m K1 events, which require a combination of explosive energy, power, and refined technique. 'Sport has both the physical and the mental aspect, which is just as big. So, as I think about my 500m, I know it's going to burn; I know it's going to hurt. But you learn to enjoy that, and to be very efficient by pacing yourself,' he explained, illustrating the intense physical demands of his sport.
Support from his family has played a crucial role in Klopper's journey. 'They've given me the opportunity to go overseas and race. They are the backbone of this success,' he acknowledged, emphasising the importance of their encouragement throughout his ascent in the sport.
Though the transition to university life has been significant, Klopper remains dedicated to his first love of canoeing. 'UCT has been an adjustment and a half. Moving out of home has been big, and a challenge; however, it's one I've been willing to face. I've really enjoyed the student life at UCT. It's an amazing institution with lots of opportunities, and I've enjoyed my experience so far,' he says, balancing his academic pursuits with his athletic aspirations.
With athletic spirit and youthful determination, Jordan Klopper is set to become a name to watch as he steps into the competitive arena in Portugal. As the UCT student faces seasoned paddlers head-on, fans of canoeing will undoubtedly root for this rising star from South Africa, eager to witness how his journey unfolds.
