A rafting team is comprised of 6 members plus an alternate. In Canada, in order to represent our Country at the World Rafting Championships, a team must win the Canadian Championship in September the year prior to the event. An official race is divided into three events: Sprint – Slalom – Downriver. The overall score from all the events determines the team’s ranking.

The sprint is without a doubt the most exciting event for spectators and counts for 30% of the total score. It consists of an eliminatory duel between two teams on a short but exciting section of the river. The winner of each round gets to compete against another winner until only two teams remain for the final. Participants must plot a strategy and compete with determination to succeed in this discipline.

The slalom requires agility, confidence, team work and strength. Precision is essential because the paddlers have to negotiate 12 gates (up & down the river) in turbulent water. Competitors aim to complete the course in the shortest time, factoring in penalties. Each team has two tries and the result is based on their best run. This event is also worth 30% of the total score.

The downriver is the ultimate challenge. This event lasts about an hour and 5 or 6 teams compete at the same time to get down the river first. The downriver is worth 40% of the total score and requires endurance, adaptation and a good mental and psychological preparation.