Reviewed by: Pat Byington
Canoe Freestyle World Championships happening now in Alabama
Reading time: 2 minutes
During summertime, Alabama’s rivers and lakes are the perfect spot for a relaxing kayak trip. One waterway, though, is bringing next-level, professional kayakers to the state. Here’s what you need to know about the Canoe Freestyle World Championships, happening in Phenix City October 9-14.
Phenix City, Alabama welcomes professional kayakers
While the International Canoe Federation’s Canoe Freestyle World Championships says it’s in Columbus, Georgia, it’s also in Alabama.
Phenix City and Columbus are divided by the Chattahoochee River, and the Phenix City Amphitheater welcomed expert freestyle kayakers at the opening ceremonies on October 7. Athletes from all over the world carried their nation’s flag in a parade and the Vice President of the International Canoe Federation traveled all the way from Spain and officially opened the competition.
The week of October 9-14, over 300 will compete on the Chattahoochee River in various events. According to WDHN, two members of Team USA are Phenix City natives Mason and Makinley Kate Hargrove.
This sibling duo has already won several impressive awards, and they’re ready to bring home more at this huge competition.
The Canoe Freestyle World Championships are an incredible display of athleticism—with competitors racing down rapids and performing tricks and flips. The best part? Guests can attend and watch the events for free. Here’s the schedule.
On October 10-14, events will take place at Waveshaper Island, a beautiful spot on the Chattahoochee.
The Canoe Freestyle World Championships brings Rushsouth + more with it
The Chattahoochee River + Riverwalk. (Pat Byington / The Bama Buzz)
But this event is much more than canoeing. On Saturday and Sunday, October 14-15, Bay Avenue (on Georgia’s side of the Chattahoochee) will host a Vendor’s Village to accompany the championships. This free and open-to-the-public event will have arts and crafts, food trucks and more.
Also on Saturday and Sunday is the inaugural Rushsouth Music Festival and Outdoor Games. Two different stages will welcome 13 bands of many different genres. Find more details and purchase tickets on Rushsouth’s websit
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