From the start of this year, student athlete Yeonsu Na has taken a leading role in establishing a dedicated canoe slalom programme at Rangitoto College. He has been responsible for coaching many of the junior athletes and the interest in this sport is growing at a rapid rate.

The scenic Tarawera River in Kawerau was the backdrop for an electrifying showcase of canoe slalom skills, as it played host to the 2024 New Zealand Secondary School Canoe Slalom competition from March 22 to 26. This event, blending fierce competition with a spirit of camaraderie, highlighted some of NZ’s finest talent in one of the country’s fastest-growing sports.

At this prestigious championship, Rangitoto College brothers Yeonsu and Junsu Na delivered outstanding performances bringing home several medals. Yeonsu captured silver in both the Senior Kayak Men’s and Senior Wildwater Canoeing Men’s events, while Junsu earned a bronze medal in the Intermediate Wildwater Canoeing Men’s event. These impressive achievements underscore the brothers’ talent and dedication to the sport showcasing a remarkable representation of Rangitoto College. We are incredibly proud of you both. Thank you for representing our school with such excellence and pride.

In addition to his local success, Yeonsu Na recently returned from the Asian Canoe Slalom Championships in Pattaya, Thailand where he represented Korea and secured a bronze medal in the Junior K1 Men’s event. This accomplishment further attests to his exceptional skill and commitment to the sport.

Please get in contact with the Sports Department if you are interested in joining this rapid growing sport.