Iecava Canoe Slalom Championship 2025
Despite the capricious April weather—gusty winds, snow, and cold temperatures—the 2025 canoe slalom season commenced on April 5–6 in Iecava, Latvia. Organized by the paddling club “Brīvie ūdeņi,” the event brought together over 60 athletes from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, competing in four boat classes.
On the first day, teams vied for the traveling “Brīvie ūdeņi” Cup and the “Braveheart Cup.” The team “SK Atvars 1” from Liepāja—comprising Martins Macijauskis, Klāvs Auznieks, and Pēteris Pelīte—delivered an outstanding performance to claim the “Brīvie ūdeņi” Cup, surpassing last year’s champions, “Pirita” from Estonia, who finished second. The “Braveheart Cup,” awarded to teams with members under 14, went to “Ozolnieki 2,” represented by Justs Līcītis, Marko Cers, and Matīss Bērziņš.
The second day featured individual races under sunny skies but near-freezing temperatures. Winners included:
Men’s Canoe (MC1): Aivars Eiduks (AK “Brīvie ūdeņi”)
Women’s Kayak (WK1): Elizabete Kurvina (SK “Atvars”)
Men’s Kayak (MK1): Martins Macijauskis (SK “Atvars”)
Women’s Canoe (WC1): Marie Peiker (Pirita, Estonia)
Atis Bērziņš of AK “Brīvie ūdeņi” reflected on the event:
“The weather was more than challenging—snow, wind, cold. But as the saying goes, what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger. This was a true test of character for everyone who braved the conditions and saw it through.”
The club extends heartfelt thanks to all athletes, coaches, supporters, and volunteers who made this water sports celebration possible, despite the weather. Special appreciation goes to the town of Iecava and local sponsors—Balticovo, the Top retail chain, and Zemgales Kebab—for their invaluable support.
With the season now underway, the baton passes to AK “Straume” in Valmiera, who will host the next canoe slalom event. See you on the water!
More information: www.canoelatvia.lv | info@canoelatvia.lv
Foto: Jānis Dziļums
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- info@canoelatvia.lv