We are delighted to be once again running the selection events for the Team GB squad for the ICF World Championships. Below you will find our details of the championships, selection criteria and, most importantly, details of this year's selection event.
The 2023 ICF World Championships
This year, the ICF SUP World Championships head to the beach resort of Pattaya in Thailand from November 15th to 19th. The season-ending event will have a full calendar of activities for recreational and amateur paddlers and a full rostrum of elite competitions.
GBSUP Selection Event - Falmouth Bay Open
The Falmouth Bay Open has been chosen as the selection event due to its similarity to the ICF location and potential conditions as a beach location. Paddlers can compete in three disciplines across 2 days (July 8th & 9th) off Gylly beach in Falmouth.
For 2023, we have implemented a new category system which falls in line with market trends and the development of the sport across the globe. The Open Age Group was created within this system so a single competitive category can be used for specific selection or ranking purposes. This ensures for the Team GB selection, all paddlers wishing to compete for a space can do so fairly and transparently
competition with their peers.
Competitive Criteria to be eligible for selection
Compete in the 14' Harboard Race Fleet
Enter the Open Age Group under that category
Complete all three events in the Falmouth Bay Open.
Section Protocols
To make a fair judgement in representative conditions, the results of the respective races (Sprint, Technical and Distance) will be used as a primary selection tool. The selection panel will review the results and other criteria, including any mitigating circumstances presented, as defined in the Draft Selection Policy.
TEAM GB Selection
British Canoeing, as the UK member federation of the ICF, has the opportunity to facilitate the entry of teams into the ICF SUP World Championships. The 2023 team will be selected from those who have entered the individual events and registered their interest with British Canoeing to be considered for the team element.
A Draft Selection policy containing full details and terms of selection can be found here on the British Canoeing website.
In summary, to be eligible for selection, you must meet the following criteria:
Be entered as an individual competitor in the World Championships
Athletes must register their interest in being selected for Team GB
Must be a comprehensive member of British Canoeing of their membership equivalent in their home nation
Be prepared to meet all costs and arrange your travel and accommodation ( in the best interests of the Team)
Meet the criteria set out in the draft policy
Compete at the chosen GBSUP selection event (details below)
The draft selection policy is now available for consultation. Please use the feedback form on the British Canoeing website to share any comments or questions about the content of the policy. All comments should be made by Friday, March 17th.
Following that date, a final policy will be published for team selection. The selection panel will meet following the selection event to formally select teams representing GBR in the ICF World Championship team events.
FAQ's
I can't make the Falmouth Bay Open, so can I still register my interest for team selection?
Yes, under the mitigating circumstances section of the Draft Policy, you will find guidelines and protocol's around this. You will also need to meet the selection criteria as defined.
Can I compete in just one of the races, such as the Distance at the Falmouth Bay Open, and still be eligible for selection?
We require all competitors seeking selection to compete in all three events at the Falmouth Bay Open (your event ticket automatically enters you into all three races).
.I don't have a hardboard, but I want to go for selection. Can I still enter?
Yes, you can. You must still enter the 14' Hardboard and Open Age Group fleet, as selection will only be made from this category.
Is there any support available for Team GB entry and travel costs?
Athletes must be able to and are responsible for their entry and travel costs and arrangements.
Do I have to enter the world championships as an individual if I want to compete for Team GB?
Yes, the ICF sets this requirement for competing teams and athletes.