Oceania Canoe Association activities Q4 2025

As Christmas approaches and 2026 draws near, the Oceania Canoe Association (OCA) has entered a particularly active period. The first major sprint race of the season has signalled the commencement of the 2026 racing calendar, taking place in Nagambie, Victoria. This event has set the tone for what promises to be a dynamic and eventful year ahead. 

Olympic Qualification and Season Planning 

In parallel with competition preparations, significant work is underway following the release of the Olympic Qualification System for Canoe Sprint. The new system has implications for Oceania, as the region’s racing season does not align with the May 2026 to December 2027 Olympic ranking period. To address this, the OCA Board has convened meetings with their National Federations in order to collaborate to adjust the continental qualification races, ensuring that these qualification events are scheduled within the prescribed ranking timeline. 

Oceania Talent Team Development Camp 

A major highlight of recent months has been the Oceania Talent Team Development Camp, held at Tikitapu, New Zealand, from December 1 to 8.  This camp placed a strong emphasis on athlete development and fostering collaboration among Pacific Nations, with particular engagement from Samoa and the Cook Islands. The initiative was made possible thanks to crucial support from PacificAus Sports, whose funding and resources were instrumental in the camp’s success. Throughout the week, athletes participated in a range of on-water training sessions. These sessions were expertly led by Jemma Smith of NWIS and Reece Bachus of Paddle South Australia, both highly regarded for their dedication to nurturing young paddlers. Their leadership and expertise fostered a positive training environment, building rapport and trust with the athletes and significantly enhancing the overall experience.  

The partnership with PacificAus Sports also enabled a series of off-water sessions during the camp.  The partnership with PacificAus Sports also enabled a series of off-water sessions during the camp.  

Additionally, participants enjoyed a unique Cultural Experience at the Mitai Maori Village and spent a day with Toni and Alicia Hoskin, dual Olympic gold medallists from the 2024 Paris Games. This experience encouraged athletes to reflect on their own strengths and fears, providing valuable insights into personal growth and how it can contribute to sporting success. The camp concluded with the athletes’ participation in the Blue Lakes regatta. This event is designed to be inclusive, promoting maximum participation through divisional racing that matches competitors of similar abilities.  

The regatta also allows athletes to advance to the semi-finals regardless of their heat results, ensuring all participants gain valuable racing experience and exposure

By Danielle Woodward, Secretary General of the Oceania Canoe Association