Sprint programs for 2010
As yet, there are no formal programs being planned for 2010. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the board at information@londoncanoeclub.ca.
About the Boats
The Canoe and Kayak, developed by native Canadians, were adopted by European immigrants for travel and trade in wilderness areas. With the coming of the railways, their importance as a mode of transportation decreased and they began to be used primarily for sport and recreation. Racing canoes and kayaks, which come in different lengths to accommodate different numbers of paddlers, are more streamlined than their recreational counterparts. The Olympic racing canoe is called the CANADIAN to honor its Canadian heritage.
K-1 K-2 K-4
designations indicate a kayak class boat with
one, two or four paddlers respectively. Kayakers are seated and use a
double-bladed paddle
C-1 C-2 C-4
designations indicate a Canadian canoe with one,
two or four paddlers respectively. Paddlers in the canoe events kneel
on one knee and use a single-blade paddle
A sprint race course consists of nine marked lanes of 200, 500 and 1,000 metres in length. Long distance sprint racing vents, (except war canoes), are held over a 6,000 and 10,000 metres course.
A WAR CANOE classification, C-15 (not an Olympic event, but a
specific to Canada since the late 1800's) consists of a 30 foot, open
racing canoe propelled by 14 paddlers and steered by a standing
coxswain.
NATIONALLY:
Sprint canoe and kayaking is one of
the fastest growing sports in Canada. Canadian Athletes; Adam
vanKoevereden and Caroline Brunet won 25% of Canada ’s total
medal take at the Athens Olympics 2004. Ms. Brunet, who was Canada ’s
flag bearer at the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, won medals there and at
Atlanta 1996.
LOCALLY:
Local athletes first competed for
London in 2001. This sport is the ultimate challenge for 9 – 19
year olds. We also have a masters racing program. Since 2001 the
program has experienced immense growth each year. Success has been
achieved divisionally, provincially and nationally. The canoe club
owns a vast assortment of state-of-the-art Olympic class racing
boats. Some paddlers just like the fast boats and never compete.
Other paddlers try the sport and want to compete right away. The
day-long regattas often become outings where families, friends and
club members share incredible enthusiasm and spirit. The spirit
carries over into a general feeling of fun versus competition.
Revised May 21, 2009