Ocean Racing is an exhilarating sport which encompasses long distance Surfski, Sea Kayak and Sea Touring races. Its athletes, among the fittest in canoeing, require both endurance and navigational skills as well as other ocean-going expertise.
A marriage of kayak technique and speed, Ocean Racing is an ideal meeting place for athletes of all Canoe disciplines. Indeed, some of the most successful Ocean Racers are often well-established Canoe Marathon or Canoe Sprint athletes. That’s not to say there are no specialised Ocean Racing athletes out there also.
An extremely popular sport in warm coastal regions, Ocean Racing is huge in places such as Australia, California, Hawaii, and South Africa. Its appeal is clear; a Surfski is the fastest boat over long distance on ocean swells. (In flatwater, only an Olympic standard Canoe Sprint boat is faster.) Athletes can expect to ride big wind-driven waves or hurricane generated ground swells, as well as the challenge of paddling in 20+ knot wind conditions. It’s no surprise that it is growing in popularity here in Britain too.
International Events and Selection Policy
The 2023 ICF Ocean Racing World Championships are due to be held in Australia from 30 November - 3 December 2023.
Other 2023 International competitions are scheduled in the following locations and dates:
- Cherbourg 24-25th June
- Brest 23-26 August
- Belgian Coast Race 30 September - 3 October
If you would like to be considered for selection for this year's World and/or European Championships please read the policy and complete the selection registration form here.
Useful Downloads
Ocean racing selection policy