OKLAHOMA CITY (March 12, 2025) – The 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Ranking Competition will take place March 28-30 at RIVERSPORT OKC, Oklahoma City’s whitewater center, bringing top athletes from around the world to compete in both Canoe Slalom and Kayak Cross. This event will showcase elite paddlers as they race against the clock and each other to earn critical world ranking points.
The World Ranking event is the first in a series of competitions slated for the build-up to the LA28 Olympic Games when RIVERSPORT will be the venue for Canoe Slalom and Kayak Cross (pending final approval by the Los Angeles City Council).
While canoe slalom has long been a staple of international whitewater competition, kayak cross is quickly becoming a fan favorite. This action-packed discipline combines elements of traditional slalom with head-to-head racing. Four athletes launch from an elevated start ramp, navigating a series of downstream and upstream gates and will also have to complete a 360-degree roll near the end of the course.
“Kayak cross was the breakout event of the Paris Games, bringing a new level of excitement and unpredictability to whitewater racing,” said Mike Knopp, RIVERSPORT OKC founder. “Now, fans in Oklahoma City have the chance to see it live as athletes battle head-to-head for ranking points.”
Spectators can watch the action up close as competitors navigate the challenging whitewater course. General admission is free. Prime Viewing tickets are $20 per day and include shaded seating, complimentary refreshments and access to a cash bar. Parking is $10.
Event Schedule Highlights:
· Friday: Preliminary heats for both Canoe Slalom and Kayak Cross
· Saturday: Kayak Cross finals in the afternoon – the must-see event of the weekend!
· Sunday: Canoe Slalom finals and award ceremonies
In addition to world-class competition, visitors can enjoy food and beverages from Big Water Grill which will be open throughout the weekend.
RIVERSPORT is also seeking volunteers for the event. Those interested can find more details at https://www.riversportokc.org/volunteer/.
For more information or to purchase Prime Viewing tickets, visit https://www.riversportokc.org/events/icf-world-ranking-2025/. Follow @RIVERSPORTOKC on social media for updates.