Stephen Bird OLYMPIAN

Stephen began paddling in 1996 in his home country of South Africa. He is a very diverse paddler, having participated in events across Sprint, Marathon, Ocean Racing, Wildwater, Canoe Polo and Slalom. Since retiring from top level competition in 2018, he continues to paddle across disciplines and works with junior development.

Significant achievements

• Stephen represented South Africa as a junior at both the 2005 and 2006 ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships. He finished in the top 10 on both occasions. Stephen qualified for 11 consecutive Australian Canoe Sprint Teams. Stephan competed at the 2012 London Olympic Games, finishing 6th in the K2 200m A Final. Stephan competed at 2016 Rio Olympic Games, finishing 8th in the K1 200m A Final.