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| Go-Paddle: An Introduction to Slalom Canoeing. |
Description
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Canoe Slalom is a Whitewater Test! - The aim of the test is to negotiate a preset course down a stretch of whitewater rapids
as quickly and accurately as possible. Similar in many ways to slalom skiing, the paddler requires a high degree of strength, fitness and whitewater technique with the mental ability to combine
all these skills into a single timed descent of the course.
At the elite level, competitors demonstrate complete control of their canoe or kayak on highly technical rapids with fractions of a second
separating the medal winners from the also rans.
For those new to the sport, canoe slalom offers an opportunity to develop your paddling skills and whitewater prowess in a safe environment at many of the UKs
premier paddlesport locations.
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How Do I Get Involved?
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Within the UK, the sport of Canoe Slalom is administered and regulated by the British Canoe Union. One of the best sources
of specific information is the UK Canoe Slalom website. This provides full details of forthcoming events, rules, race results and general advice for beginners.
Probably the best source of information and advice is your local canoe club. Most canoe clubs have some paddlers involved in slalom canoeing with many clubs having specific slalom training sites and training groups. Search the go-paddle club database
to find your nearest canoe club that has an active interest in slalom canoeing.
Events are organised by individual canoe clubs at a variety of locations across the UK. A divisional structure exists with Division 4 being the lowest division suitable for novice
paddlers and elite paddlers competing at Division 1 and Premier Division events. Most Division 4 events are held on flatwater or grade 2 rapids. This enables the novice paddler to learn basic slalom skills in a forgiving environment. At higher levels, paddlers compete on challenging rapids(up to grade 4), either on a natural river or at one of the UKs
artificial canoe slalom courses. |
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