Prashant Kushwaha of India has been elected as the President of the Asian Canoe Confederation (ACC), following the four year term of Admiral Chainarong Charoenruk of Thailand.
Held during the ACC Ordinary Congress from October 25 to 26, in Thailand, Kushwaha won the election by 14 votes to 13.
“I would like to congratulate Prashant Kushwaha on his election as the new President of the Asian Canoe Confederation,” International Canoe Federation President Thomas Konietzko said.
“I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Admiral Chainarong Charoenruk for his dedicated leadership and valuable contributions during his tenure. Whether it was development camps, refereeing seminars, or competitions, Chainarong always ensured that everything met the highest standards.
“I have had many fruitful discussions with Prashant and am confident in his vision and commitment to further strengthening the sport.
“The ACC Congress clearly highlighted the impressive and rapid growth of paddle sport across Asia, signalling a promising future.”
Kushwaha, who is also the Indian Kayaking and Canoeing Association President, will serve as chief of the continental body until 2029.
“I am deeply honoured to serve as the newly elected President of the Asian Canoe Confederation. My heartfelt thanks to all our Member Federations for their trust and confidence in me. Leading one of the largest and most dynamic canoeing communities in the world is both an honour and a great responsibility,” Kushwaha said.
“I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the pioneers who have built the strong legacy of the ACC, especially Mr. Narita and Admiral Chainarong. Their vision, leadership, and lifelong dedication have been the foundation of our success and growth.
“I am humbled to follow in their footsteps as we embark on this journey together. My vision for the future is to further develop canoeing across Asia, with a special focus on supporting the sport in developing underdeveloped countries.
“By creating more opportunities, fostering inclusivity, and strengthening cooperation among member federations, we can inspire a new generation of athletes and expand the reach of canoeing across our continent.
“Together, as one ACC family, we will carry forward the proud legacy of our pioneers while working to build a stronger, more vibrant, and united future for canoeing in Asia.”
The Congress also saw Indonesia’s Budiman Setiawan and Shao Yaping of China elected as Continental Representatives to the ICF.
Both Setiawan and Yaping have been part of the ICF Board of Directors before and will continue to do so under the new leadership.
Henry Sim from Singapore was once again elected unanimously as the Treasurer of the ACC.
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