Paddle-Ability encourages people to join in with other paddlers and to take part in whichever discipline they are interested in or would like to try out. Disabled paddlers are encouraged to take part in competition alongside mainstream paddlers allowing the focus to be on inclusion with the recognition that people may have some specific needs.
There are a number of disabled people taking part in both specialist disability and mainstream competition alongside disabled athletes in a wide range of disciplines from Slalom to Marathon, Wild Water Racing to Sprint. As well as competitive events many organisations also run specialist tours or activities for disabled people. Clubs, centres and event organisers can advertise the Paddle-Ability Events using the Paddle-Ability Forum.
Canoe England promote both specialist disability and inclusive programmes through the GoCanoeing and School Games initiatives.
Sprint Racing
Sprint is the Paddlesport discipline that is included in the Paralympics as well at the ICF World and European World Championships. Male and Female Paracanoe athletes compete in both double and single bladed events racing over 200m on flat water. Athletes compete in three classes A (Arms), TA (Trunk and Arms) and LTA (Legs, Trunk and Arms).
Paddle-Ability specific events take place at National Sprint Regattas throughout the Spring, culminating in the National Paddle-Ability Awards at the September Regatta. Athletes can compete in both double and single bladed events over 200m and 500m in single and crew events. The competition is split into time bands so all athletes compete against others of a similar ability.
To support the development of talented paddlers who are aspiring to Paracanoe, Canoe England has set up a Paddle-Ability Talent Development Programme. This programme is aimed at those with physical disabilities whom, if they are not doing so already, intend to regularly take part in Paddle-Ability Sprint Competition. Sessions run once a month between November and March are for confident, competent, motivated athletes with the desire to push themselves and achieve to the best of their ability. Supported by the Paracanoe Development Coaches these sessions involve activity both on and off the water in a range of formats to grow and progress the skills of those taking part in the programme. Athletes wishing to be considered for the programme should complete the Paddle-Ability Talent Development Programme Application form.
Paddlesport events also form part of Special Olympic competition at both national and international levels.
Marathon Racing
For many years disabled paddlers have taken part in competition alongside able-bodied athletes. Whilst some athlete’s disability does not affect their ability to complete portages others have found alternative solutions. Paracanoe Team member Stewart Clark has done this by racing in a K2 boat, the find out more read his case study: DW to Paracanoe.
Wild Water Racing
There are a number of disabled athletes currently taking part in Wild Water Racing, with great success this includes athletes with both physical and learning impairments. Robyn Webb is part of the Paddle-Ability Talent Development Programme, however she started her competitive career in Wild Water Racing. To find out more about her story, read her case study: Inspired by Others.