Welcome to the Rio Olympic Canoe Slalom blog

This is the first post of a regular blog where I will aim to bring you insights into the world of canoe slalom every day from now until the 12th of August. This digest will explain this exhilarating sport of canoe slalom, the Olympic Deodoro course venue, recent results from the ICF World Cup and which athletes (paddlers) to look out for that have qualified for their nations.

Look out for these posts in the next two weeks

• Full analysis of the 2016 season so far, who has qualified to represent their nation and who is on form;
• Insights from the paddlers themselves on their hopes, opinions and what it has taken to get here;
• Stunning photography from Balint Vekassy and others;
• The history of the sport, how it has evolved, the four Olympic classes, technique and boat design;
• Interviews with experts on mental preparation, coaching, judging, live commentary and tips on how to capture brilliant photography;
• How to get to the Deodoro facility, the competition schedule and what to expect when you arrive.

Awaiting new champions in each class

We are assured new Olympic Champions in each of the medal classes at the X-Park Deodoro Whitewater stadium. The racing starts in Rio with heats on August 7^th.

Keep tuning in

Tomorrow’s post will start examining the basics of canoe slalom, including the history and Olympic qualification for the four classes.

We welcome your interaction. Remember to use hashtag #ICFslalom across all social media.

Please comment through @PlanetCanoe on Twitter or Facebook.

If you are completely new to canoeing, then I hope this encourages you to pick up a paddle for the first time. You won’t regret it.

I have spent 30 years of my life, paddling, coaching, writing and talking about this amazing sport. Here is my 2016 contribution.

John @gregiej