Why are South African Surf Ski paddlers so sucessful and who can beat them certainly not the Aussies?

Question

Most SA Paddlers have a Surf Lifesaving background from a young age as Nippers and have developed great surf knowledge. two of the top 10 finishers are over 40 and South African. Only a one non South African in the top 10

Answer 1

But many Aussie surf skiers also have surf lifesaving experience. Perhaps surf skiing is a more popular sport in SA, and there is a larger competitive pool to draw from. Would certainly like to see more surf ski and outrigger canoe events -- they're such great sports!