Sprint is an exciting Olympic sport that showcases speed and power on flat water. It involves paddlers racing against each other over distances ranging from 200 to 1000 metres. Races take place on calm water, with up to nine boats competing side by side in separate lanes.

Equipment and Boat Types

Competitors use sleek, narrow boats designed for speed:

  • Kayaks (K): Paddled with a double-bladed paddle
  • Canoes (C): Paddled with a single-bladed paddle


There are three main differences between the canoes and kayaks:

  • Seating position:
  • In kayaks, paddlers sit with legs extended
  • In canoes, paddlers kneel
  • Paddle type:
  • Kayaks use double-bladed paddles
  • Canoes use single-bladed paddles
  • Design:
  • Kayaks have a closed deck
  • Canoes have an open deck

Get Involved

Scottish Performance Programme

Thanks to investment from sportscotland, the Paddle Scotland Performance Programme operates programmes in Paracanoe, Sprint and Slalom to support athletes with the potential and commitment to achieve Olympic and Paralympic medals. Get in touch with us to learn more.

Sprint Development Group

You can contact the group at sprint@paddlescotland.org.uk