ICF Canoe Ocean Racing Committee activities

2024 World Championships in Madeira 

The ICF 2024 Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships in Madeira was a resounding success, showcasing the sport’s growing global appeal and competitiveness. 

• Record Participation: A record-breaking 35 countries participated, highlighting the international reach and popularity of the championship.
• Historical Achievement: For the first time, an European athlete, Gordan Harbrecht from Germany, secured the World Championship title in SS1, marking a milestone in the event’s history.
• Support from the Portuguese Federation: The Portuguese Canoe Federation played a pivotal role in ensuring the event’s success through their exceptional organisation and dedication.
• Talent Identification Programme: A successful TIP was conducted, featuring 12 athletes from diverse countries. This initiative continues to strengthen the pipeline for emerging talent in the sport.

Congress in Antalya 

The XL ICF Congress in Antalya, Turkiye marked a significant transition for Canoe Ocean Racing. 

• Leadership Transition: Marian Sarbu from Belgium was elected as the new Chair of the Canoe Ocean Racing Committee, succeeding Colin Simpkins from South Africa.
• Committee Reorganisation: The committee has been refreshed with new members, bringing new perspectives and energy to the leadership team.
• Strategic Planning: The newly formed committee has already begun laying the groundwork for initiatives aimed at the growth of the sport through 2025.

World Cup in Réunion

The ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Cup held in Réunion Island was met with widespread acclaim from athletes and organisers alike. 

• Outstanding Organisation: The event’s flawless organization earned high praise, making it a standout experience for all participants.
• Positive Athlete Feedback: Athletes expressed strong enthusiasm for the event and have encouraged its repetition in future years.
• Future Prospects: Given the positive reception, there is a strong possibility of the World Cup returning to Réunion in upcoming seasons.

2025 World Championships in Durban 

Preparations are underway for the 2025 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships in Durban, South Africa. 

• Early Collaboration: Initial discussions with the organisers have begun, focusing on delivering the most successful World Championships to date.
• Future Vision: The event is set to build on past successes and establish new benchmarks for excellence in Canoe Ocean Racing.

Conclusion 

The past three months have been transformative for Canoe Ocean Racing, with a record-breaking World Championship, impactful leadership changes, and ambitious plans for the future.  The sport continues to grow in global prominence, and these developments promise an exciting future for all stakeholders involved. 

By Marian Sarbu, Chair of the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing Committee