Canoe marathon is a paddling sport in which athletes paddle a kayak (double-bladed paddle) or canoe (single-bladed paddle) over a long distance to the finish line. The International Canoe Federation states standard distance races are at least 10 kilometres (6.2 mi) without an upper limit, while short distance races are between 3.4 kilometres (2.1 mi), and 10 kilometres (6.2 mi).[1] Many events are raced down sections of river, including currents or portages around obstacles. Some events attract thousands of competitors and are staged over several days.
Classes
Racers are generally divided into different classes though the available classes at each race will vary. Example classes are:
K1
K2
K4
C1
C2
C3
C6
OC1
OC2
K refers to a kayak, C a canoe and OC to an outrigger.[2] The number refers to the number of paddlers in the boat. Some included on this list are very infrequently raced at the marathon discipline, but C1, C2 and K1 are virtually in every race. K1, K2, K4, C1, and C2 classes are permitted in International Canoe Federation events.[1]
The long running Avon Descent held in Western Australia, a two day whitewater marathon river race over 124 kilometres (77 mi) for kayaks and canoes where paddlers compete alongside powerboats.[3]
The MR340 is an annual 340 miles (550 km) continuous race on the Missouri River from Kansas City to St. Charles, Missouri. Participants have 88 hours to complete the race.[4]
Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Marathon: A race over 125 miles (201 km) of canals and rivers from Devizes to Westminster, England which can either be completed "straight through" or over four days. The course includes portages around 77 locks. There are no rules about the boat specifications but most competitors use ICF kayaks.
The Dusi Canoe Marathon in South Africa: a three-day race over 120 kilometres (75 mi). Classes include K1, K2, white water, touring kayak, and touring canoe.[5]
The Eleven Cities Tour in Friesland: a 36 hours max race over 200 kilometres (120 mi). Classes include K1, K2, white water and touring kayak.[6]
The Fish River Canoe Marathon: a two-day river race over (81 kilometres (50 mi)) in South Africa in ICF-style K1s and K2s. K3s are also run.
The Hawkesbury Canoe Classic. 111 kilometres (69 mi) down the Hawkesbury River in NSW Australia from Windsor to Brooklyn. The event is run at night (under moonlight on some years). Classes include canoes, kayaks and skis, as well as limited dragon boats.
The Texas Water Safari a race over 262 miles (422 km) from the interior Texas south to the Gulf of Mexico.[7] It must be completed in 100 hours. Classes include:
Solo: USCA C-1, unlimited (any human powered boat)
The Muskoka River X: a 24-hour race over 133 kilometres (83 mi) of lakes and rivers in Ontario, Canada.[12] The course includes 20 portages. Paddlers must carry expedition gear such as shelters and emergency rations. Classes include canoe (single and tandem), kayak, and stand up paddle board.
The Yukon 1000: a biennial wilderness race over 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of the Yukon River lasting 7–12 days. Classes include K1, K2, C1, C2 and voyageur canoes.[14]
