The 2024 International Canoe Federation Stand Up Paddling World Championships in Sarasota will go ahead as planned after avoiding any severe damage from Hurricane Milton that wreaked havoc in Florida.
Hurricane Milton spawned tornadoes along with torrential rains, causing loss of lives, power outages and significant damage yet to be determined across the region when it hit earlier this month.
However, the Local Organising Committee has assured that impact from the hurricane will not affect the hosting of the SUP World Championships from November 20 to 24.
“The park is in good condition following the hurricane, with no severe damage or flooding," Nathan Benderson Park posted on Instagram.
“The select area closures are to allow us to clean up debris and ensure there are no hazards/obstacles in this area for walking, running and using the waterway.”
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The schedule for the World Championships is now confirmed with preliminary rounds, heats and quarter-finals of the sprint category taking place on November 20, followed by the Opening Ceremony in the evening.
The technical races until the quarter-final stage will take place on November 21 and the sprint semi-finals and finals will be held on November 22.
Technical finals will take place on November 23 and the final day of action will feature long distance finals, inflatable finals, kids races and the Closing Ceremony.
The World Championships will also see the debut of the 100m sprint, which will replace the regular 200m races.
The new format will captivate athletes and audiences alike, with the race lasting 25 to 30 seconds compared to almost a minute in the 200m.
The event has a prize pool of $30,000 which will be awarded and distributed equally between men and women.
The deadline for registrations for the event is November 5.
Each competitor represents themselves and is responsible for their own entries and participation.
“Thanks to the dedication of the local Organising Committee, we are thrilled to welcome athletes and fans from around the globe to experience the most anticipated SUP competitions of the year as originally planned,” ICF SUP Commission chair Noemi Horvath said.
“I'm sure we will see some very exciting races. After going through so much hardships recently, I am sure the World Championships will bring the community together.”
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