Top surfski paddlers converge on Madeira for ICF Canoe Ocean World Cup

Madeira to Host Elite Ocean Racing Event

The picturesque island of Madeira, Portugal, is gearing up to host the International Canoe Federation (ICF) Canoe Ocean Racing World Cup, drawing an impressive roster of top-tier surfski paddlers. This highly anticipated event will unfold in the familiar Atlantic waters that previously welcomed competitors for the 2024 ICF Canoe Racing World Championships. Demonstrating the event's prestige, numerous elite athletes from various nations confirmed their attendance within a day of registrations opening.

Star-Studded Lineup Confirmed

• Germany's Gordan Harbrecht, the 2024 world champion, is set to return to the very course where he claimed his title.
• Local talent Bernardo Pereira, the current U23 men’s world champion, will represent the host nation.
• South African powerhouse Kira Bester, who secured victory in Madeira last year and holds the reigning world champion status, is also confirmed.
• Great Britain's Rosie Edwards, an U23 world gold medallist, will join the competitive field, promising thrilling races.

Inaugural Event for New World Series

This Madeira competition holds particular significance as it inaugurates the new ICF Canoe Ocean World Series. This innovative format aims to unify major ocean racing events throughout the year into a cohesive international circuit. Marian Sarbu, Chair of the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing Committee, emphasized the strategic importance of this development:

"This updated structure enhances the global competition schedule, elevates the international profile of Canoe Ocean Racing, and offers athletes a clear progression to challenge the sport's top competitors across the season. By integrating some of the most esteemed races globally into a unified circuit, we are fostering fresh avenues for athletes to perform at an elite level while simultaneously reinforcing the worldwide recognition of...

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