Two New Zealand female paddlers have a rare chance to compete at the 2026 ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships in Spain while joining a dedicated talent development programme designed to build the next generation of elite ocean racers.
The Talent Identification Programme Camp runs 4–12 October in La Vila Joiosa, offering selected athletes a nine-day immersion in world-class coaching, competition experience, and a clear pathway toward continental and world competition in 2027. Head coach Angie Le Roux will lead the programme, which brings together emerging female paddlers from across the Oceania region.
The opportunity carries significant financial backing. The ICF Canoe Ocean Racing Committee and Royal Spanish Canoe Federation are covering accommodation, meals, local transport, and World Championships entry fees. Athletes cover their own international travel, visa costs, and health insurance.
Eligibility is straightforward: applicants must be female, aged 18–25, and willing to help develop canoe ocean racing back home. New Zealand gets a maximum of two places. Priority goes to athletes who can demonstrate genuine commitment to growing the sport in their federation.
The selection timeline is tight. Interested paddlers must confirm their interest to Canoe Racing NZ by 11.59pm Monday 3rd August, along with a passport photo and statement that they intend to compete at the World Championships. CRNZ then submits applications to the International Canoe Federation by 5 August, with invitations issued by the ICF following review.
This is a late-announced opportunity, so the condensed deadline reflects the timing of the ICF’s offer to CRNZ. For women looking to step into international ocean racing and secure support for their development, the window is narrow but the doors it opens are substantial.
Contact Maree Kaati at Maree@crnz.org for questions or to express interest.
