Canoe Slalom is the negotiation of a rapid river course, defined by a series of up to 25 numbered "gates" hung above the river, in the shortest possible time. Typical races take place over a short stretch of river, usually around 300m in length. In the lower competition divisions, flat, steadily moving water provides the basis for a suitable course, whilst at higher levels, either a fast flowing river, or a weir with a steady flow, is required.
The BCU facilities development objectives for Canoe Slalom are:
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Enhance the BCU National Canoeing Development Centre at Holme Pierrepont.
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Secure more access to whitewater for competition, training and recreation.
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Develop a hierarchy of facilities to allow the development of personal skills and the development of excellence.
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Develop a network of Performance Centres and Development Centres.
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Secure artificial courses and features where natural white or moving water is deficient.
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A key priority is the development of an International standard white water facility to serve the London, South East and Southern Regions and which would be suitable for supporting a future Olympic bid.
Canoe Slalom Facility Framework
The facility needs of Canoe Slalom have been identified as comprising:
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A national centre, based at the National Water Sports Centre, Holme Pierrepont.
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A spread of Performance Centres of at least one centre per region.
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Development centres catering for the development of skills of at least two per region.
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An infrastructure of local clubs across all main population centres.
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For each level in the framework, site specific locations are identified along with a summary of either on-site deficiencies at a particular facility, or deficiencies in local coverage.
Current deficiencies to be overcome:
National Centre, Holme Pierrepont
Extended elite programming.
Extension of course.
Reengineer obstacles in course.
Extend and enhance BCU National Canoeing Development Centre.
Increase built ancillary facilities and equipment.
Performance Centres
Teeside - relocate club and install pumps.
Holme Pierrepont - encourage club on site.
River Washburn, Harrogate - upgrade facilities.
Linton Lock, York - upgrade facilities.
Deficiencies in:
Eastern
London
North West
South
South East
South West
West Midlands
Yorkshire
Development Centres
Deficiencies in parts of all regions.