Para canoe is a test of the fastest individual athlete in a kayak (K) or va’a (V) across a 200m distance.

 

Para kayaks have a wide base, and va’a boats have an attachment called an outrigger to aid in balance. Athletes compete with either a double-sided paddle in the faster discipline, kayaking, or single sided paddle in va’a.

 

Para canoe athletes have five classifications; KL 1-3, and VL2 and 3. The classification is an indication of the lower limb and trunk mobility of each athlete.

 

Adaptations can be made to seats, sockets, and grip to aid athletes. Although the athlete is not allowed to be attached to the boat for safety purposes.

 

There are two international governing bodies of the sport. The International Canoe Federation (ICF) governs canoe meanwhile va’a is governed by the International va’a Federation. Hong Kong China Canoe Union Limited Is the member of International Canoe Federation in Hong Kong, China. Hong Kong China Outrigger Racing Association is the member of International va’a Federation in Hong Kong, China.
 

Source of information credit: International Paralympic Committee