Time is running out for athletes to secure their place at this year’s International Canoe Federation Stand Up Paddling World Championships in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
There is just one month left to register and fewer than 10 days remaining to benefit from a discounted participation fee.
Abu Dhabi is preparing to stage the ICF SUP World Championships from October 29 to November 2.
More than 370 athletes from almost 50 nations have already signed up to participate in the ICF flagship event – and there is still time to join them.
The closing date for entries is October 19, but it is important for all paddlers – whether they are elite competitors or passionate recreational participants – to finalise their entry as soon as possible.
If paddlers sign up before October 1, they can benefit from the “last minute” deal where the participation fee has been slashed by 100 USD.
By registering, athletes will have the chance to make history as the UAE will hold the World Championships for the first time.
Since registration opened, many of the biggest names in the sport have submitted their entries.
Among those include Dutch ace Donato Freens, Bulgarian speedster Andrii Kraitor, Greek paddler Phaedon Doukas, Japan’s Shuri Araki, United States star Katniss Paris and Puerto Rico’s Mariecarmen Rivera.
“Abu Dhabi offers a vibrant mix of cultural and recreational experiences, making it a unique destination for participants and visitors,” said Yaser Alkatheeri, Chairman of the Emirates Canoeing and Rafting Federation.
“Recreational events include desert safaris, dhow cruises, and water sports along the Corniche, providing opportunities for relaxation and adventure.
“Local activities such as exploring the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Qasr Al Hosn allow visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and modern spirit of the city.
“Abu Dhabi’s diverse culinary scene, from traditional Emirati food to world-class international dining, adds to the overall experience.
“The city’s safe, welcoming environment and world-class hospitality make it an ideal destination for both competitors and their families.
“Choosing Abu Dhabi means combining competition with an unforgettable travel experience, offering memories beyond the event itself.”
Proceedings will open on October 29 with the preliminaries, heats and quarter-finals of the sprint competition.
All eyes will be on the technical races on October 30 as paddlers battle it out in the preliminaries, heats and quarter-finals.
The intensity will ramp up on October 31 when the medals will be contested in sprint across the open, junior and masters categories.
Technical semi-finals and finals will be held on November 1 before competition concludes on November 2 with the long-distance finals.
In addition to the World Championships events, organisers will hold recreational races.
These include the exciting Mega SUP races, where teams paddle together on oversized boards, and surfski races, offering a dynamic challenge on the open water.
Both are designed as fun, recreational experiences that bring people together and showcase Abu Dhabi’s vibrant water sports.
For registration details, click here.
Related links
