Nicholas "Niki" Notten

[2026-02-13] Nicholas "Niki" Notten is a titan of South African surfski, a 2021 World Champion, and as of 2026, he remains one of the fastest "downwind specialists" in the global circuit. While some champions rely on raw flat-water power, Notten is a master of "surfing the bumps"—using the kinetic energy of the ocean to maintain speeds that seem impossible to others. >>

Giovanni Saperdi

[2026-05-18] Giovanni Saperdi is an accomplished Italian kayak athlete and sports technician who plays a key role in developing paddling disciplines in Italy. He is highly active in both Wildwater Canoeing (canoa discesa) and Canoe Ocean Racing (surfski). >>

Gorge Downwind Champs (Oregon, USA)

[2026-02-19] While newer than Molokai or Cape Point, the Gorge has instantly become a modern classic. Held on the Columbia River, the race relies on a unique wind-against-current phenomenon. The opposing forces stack the river into endless, deep, surfable waves. It is practically a week-long festival of downwind paddling that culminates in a highly competitive race. >>

2026-06-15

Paddle sports event attracts hundreds to historic Hangzhou waterway

2026-06-12

Vaikobi joins ICF to foster global expansion of 2026 Canoe Ocean Racing World Series

2026-05-27

ICF applauds Queensland's bid for the 2030 World Paddle Games, anticipating a AUD$200 million economic boost