Canoe Sprint is a very similar sport to Canoe Slalom but the basic difference between both is Canoe Slalom is played on moving water while Canoe Sprint races take place on calm water.
Just like in Canoe Slalom, Canoes and Kayaks boats are used in this sport. These Canoes and Kayaks have been a source of travelling for many years, but in the 20th century, the whole idea of travelling across the river on Canoe turned into an entertaining sport.
Canoe Sprint has been part of the Olympics since 1936 and both women and men are allowed to participate in it. However, there are no mixed races but same genders compete against each other. Canoe Sprinting is also popular in Asia but European countries have won the most gold medals in Olympics Canoe Sprint racings up till now.
Object of Playing Canoe Sprint
The object of the game is to complete the course in the least amount of time, the fastest to complete the course is declared the winner. Canoe and Kayak boats are used to complete the course with the help of a paddle that assists in steering and pushing forward.
How to Play?
Canoe Sprint is a water sport which is played in still water. As many participants can compete as the space in the water allows, with each of them having his own Canoe or Kayak boat. Players sail their boats in designated lanes and the first to reach the finish line wins the race.
Though Canoe Sprint is a simple sport which involves no such complexities regarding fouls and point scoring, it is worth learning why lanes are assigned and what infringements can disqualify you from the game. Find out everything in the next section of this article.
General Rules of the Game
- During the race, each boat has a separate lane.
- The race starts with a whistle with all boats lined up side by side, in their lanes.
- Each lane is 5 meter wide and going outside this lane results in disqualification from the race.
- If a boat starts before the whistle, it is called a false start.
- 2-3 false starts can disqualify you from the game.
- Boats can’t leave their lanes, if they do so, it is considered a foul.
- Commiting a foul means you are disqualified from the race.
Time Duration
Time duration of the game depends upon the area to be covered. There are 12 different categories of Canoe Sprint in the Olympics.
- Men’s C-1 200 metres
- Men’s C-1 1000 metres
- Men’s K-2 1000 metres
- Men’s K-1 200 metres
- Men’s K-1 1000 metres
- Men’s K-2 200 metres
- Men’s K-2 1000 metres
- Men’s K-4 1000 metres
- Women’s K-1 200 metres
- Women’s K-1 500 metres
- Women’s K-2 500 metres
- Women’s K-4 500 metres
The K refers to Kayaks and C refers to Canoes. The numbers ahead of K and C number of sprinters sitting in a boat. 1-4 sprinters can sit in one Canoe/Kayak depending upon the type of contest. Since it is held in calm water, there is no threat of a boat falling over, hence, upto 4 sprinters can be easily placed in a specifically designed boat.
Sprinting Course
These races take place in calm water, mostly natural rivers. Each boat is assigned a lane, which they have to follow throughout the race.
Playing Equipment
In Canoe Sprint, all you need is a boat, Canoe or Kayaks and a paddle to steer.
Canoe: These boats are best for a singles competition. Athletes position themselves on the knee and place the front leg in front of them for maximum stability. These boats come with one-side blade paddles constructed from carbon fiber shafts and carbon fiber blades for excellent grip and control on the boat.
Kayak: These boats are used for doubles. They have blades on either side of the paddle which help the sprinters to steer the boat. These blades are mostly constructed from carbon fibreglass or carbon fiber material.
Referee
In case of close finishes, it can be difficult to determine the winner from naked eyes. Moreover, it is necessary to ensure that every player complies with the rules of the game. A referee is present on the TV who monitors everything and if the winner is not clear, they can replay the finishing moment to choose the winner.
Famous Canoe Sprint Events
The International Canoe Championship and Olympics are the most famous and competitive events of Canoe Sprint. Moreover, countries where this sport is popular also organize Canoe Sprint tournaments at domestic level.
Governing Body
The International Canoe Federation (ICF) is the governing body that sanctions all similar sports including Canoe Slalom. The federation had more than 150 member countries and its current headquarters are located in Switzerland.
Difference Between Canoe Slalom and Canoe Sprint
| Area of Comparison | Canoe Slalom | Canoe Sprint |
|---|---|---|
| Played in | Moving water | Calm water |
| Race occurs | Individually | Together, in separate lanes |
| Types of Races | Mostly singles | Both singles and doubles |