Ng We Meng, known affectionately as “Dave,” is carving a new path for Singaporean sport as he competes at the ICF Slalom World Championships 2025. At just 23 years old, We Meng is not only making waves as a first-time competitor in the Kayak Cross but also pioneering Singapore’s entry into an Olympic pathway sport that has never before been on the nation’s sporting radar.

For many, We Meng’s presence at the World Championships may appear to be just one athlete representing Singapore. But for the nation, this moment marks a historic milestone. With the sport set to debut at the 2025 SEA Games, his progress represents both personal triumph and the foundation of a broader sporting movement in Singapore.

“This isn’t just about me,” We Meng says. “This is a big step for our country. Canoe slalom has never had this kind of platform in Singapore, and being here shows that with the right support, we can grow the sport and even aim for the Olympics in 2032.”

We Meng’s journey into elite competition has been anything but conventional. Starting out as a leisure kayaker in 2013, he discovered slalom in 2016 on flat water using second-hand boats, only experiencing true whitewater for the first time in 2024. Despite the lack of natural rivers and training infrastructure in Singapore, he has risen rapidly through determination, adaptability, and the support of the International Canoe Federation’s Talent Identification Program (TIP).

Initially competing in K1, We Meng transitioned to C1 after being encouraged by international coaches who saw his natural potential. Since then, he has embraced the challenge of mastering a demanding discipline with fewer resources than most of his competitors, proving himself against athletes from countries with long-established slalom traditions.

Training in Singapore comes with unique challenges. With no natural whitewater available, We Meng and his small but growing community of paddlers rely heavily on overseas training and competitions. Despite these hurdles, his commitment has already inspired a new wave of young athletes back home, with five junior paddlers now regularly training under his guidance.

“My personal dream is to compete at the Olympics,” he explains. “But equally important is building the next generation. I want Singapore to be seen as a country that can compete with the world in canoe slalom.”

With role models and support systems from powerhouse nations such as Australia, France, and Great Britain guiding his development, We Meng is determined to bring those lessons back to Singapore. His long-term vision is clear: to establish a sustainable and competitive slalom program that can thrive for years to come.

As Singapore looks ahead to the SEA Games debut of slalom, Ng We Meng stands as both a trailblazer and mentor -  an athlete whose determination and leadership are laying the foundation for Singapore’s place in the global slalom community.

About Ng We Meng

Ng We Meng (23) is a Singaporean slalom athlete specialising in the C1 discipline. Starting with leisure kayaking in 2013, he transitioned into competitive slalom in 2016 and joined the ICF’s Talent Identification Program in 2024. We Meng is a strong advocate for growing the sport in Singapore and has his sights set on the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. 

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