Distances raced are 200m, 500m, 1000m, 6000m, 10,000m in singles doubles and fours in both canoe and kayak classes. The sport is club based, where almost all the training and preparation takes place. The clubs’ facilities can be based on the side of rivers, estuaries, canals or lakes.
The BCU facilities development objectives for Sprint Racing are:
-
Enhance the BCU National Development Centre at Holme Pierrepont.
-
Develop a network of Performance Centres and Development Centres.
-
Secure more access to flat water for training.
-
Develop a hierarchy of facilities to allow the development of personal skills and the development of excellence.
-
Develop the club structure.
-
A key priority is the development of an International standard regatta course west of London.
-
Sprint Racing Facility Framework
The facility needs of Sprint Racing have been identified as comprising:
-
National centres, based at the National Water Sports Centre at Holme Pierrepont, and at a new facility west of London.
-
A spread of Performance Centres based on need, comprising at least one per region.
-
Development centres to cater for local level training.
-
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 the total coverage. The specific locations are to be developed in conjunction with Marathon Racing and with Rowing Regatta Courses.
Current deficiencies to be overcome:
-
National Centre, Holme Pierrepont
-
Enhance the BCU National Canoeing Development Centre.
-
Install automatic start gate system and movable pontoon.
-
Increase built ancillary facilities and equipment.
-
Install paddling tank.
-
National network
-
Course needed west of London.
-
Albert Dock, East London - install automatic start gate system and provide winter training facilities.
-
Performance Centres
-
Teeside - relocate club.
-
Holme Pierrepont - encourage on-site club.
Deficiencies in:
Eastern
North West
South
South West
Yorkshire
Development Centres
Deficiencies in parts of all regions.