The International Canoe Federation (ICF) Ocean Racing World Championships in Perth, Australia, are nearing their entry deadline. This prestigious event, hosted for the first time in Australia, has already attracted elite paddlers globally. Ocean racing's popularity in Australia ensures a strong local contingent will challenge international competitors on Saturday, December 2, the provisional race day.
The challenging 21-kilometer course begins at Bathers Beach in historic Fremantle, crosses the Swan River mouth, and concludes at the renowned Scarborough Beach in Perth's northern suburbs.
These world titles will follow "The Doctor," a celebrated 27-kilometer ocean race from Rottnest Island to Sorrento Beach, by just one week. "The Doctor" consistently draws the world's top ocean paddlers.
The women's field boasts an impressive lineup, including Australia's current world champion, Jemma Smith, and South Africa's 2021 title winner, Michelle Burn. Spain's Judit Verges, a 2021 bronze medalist, is also among the formidable entrants.
In the men's category, South African marathon paddling stars Andrew Birkett and Hank McGregor are confirmed. They are joined by Australian Stand Up Paddling (SUP) world champion, Michael Booth. All three are recognized for their exceptional ocean paddling skills and will vie for the inaugural world title in Perth.
Former bronze medalists, Australia's Sam Norton and South Africa's Ulvard Hart, are also expected to perform well. The final deadline for all entries is November 20.
[go to the magazine: paddleworldwide]
Continue with the original post:
https://paddleworldwide.com/news/closing-date-near-ocean-racing-titles
2026-09-21
2026-09-20
2026-09-14