Events are for newcomers too
Many freestyle competitions include novice, youth or open categories and offer practice time before judging begins. One of the great things about Open Canoe is that the competition is open to everyone—male, female, senior or junior. We are one big, happy community of open boaters. Contact the organiser if you are unsure whether OC1 is included or what standard is expected. Joining Facebook groups such as the C1 and OC1 Freestyle Group is also a good way to meet like-minded paddlers.
Typical format
Competition formats vary, but paddlers usually receive timed rides and attempt scored moves. Preliminary rounds may lead to semi-finals and finals. The organiser’s briefing is the authority for the exact format.
Scoring basics
Judges identify recognised moves, their direction and bonuses such as clean or huge where the rules allow. Repeating the same move in the same direction may not score again within a ride. International and national rule sets can differ.
What to bring
Bring normal paddling equipment plus anything required by the organiser.
- Boat and checked outfitting
- Paddle and, if possible, a spare
- Helmet and suitable buoyancy aid
- Warm layers and changing equipment
- Food, drink and any entry confirmation
- Repair tape, tools and basic spares
- Boat sharing is not allowed between competitors in the same heat, so make sure you have a boat available to use
On the day
Register early, attend the briefing, identify the start order and ask where competitors should wait. Watch a few rides, support other paddlers and focus on a realistic routine you can repeat.