Raft racing is a competitive sport where teams paddle inflatable rafts through rivers or whitewater courses as fast and accurately as possible. It tests speed, teamwork, technique, and river-reading skills.
What is Raft Racing?
Teams (usually 4 or 6 paddlers plus a guide or captain, depending on rules) compete on natural rivers or artificial courses. Races can involve flatwater, rapids, or a mix of both.
Main Categories of Raft Racing
1. Sprint
- Short distance (typically 200–800 meters)
- Straight course
- Focus: pure speed and power
- Fastest team wins
2. Head-to-Head (H2H)
- Two rafts race side by side
- Knockout/elimination format
- Very exciting and tactical
- Focus: speed + maneuvering
3. Slalom
- Teams navigate through gates (upstream & downstream)
- Penalties for touching or missing gates
- Focus: precision, control, and teamwork
4. Downriver
- Longest and most demanding race
- Several kilometers downstream
- Combines flatwater, rapids, and endurance
- Focus: stamina, river strategy, and consistency
Categories by Team Type
🔹 Men’s
🔹 Women’s
🔹 Mixed (men & women together)
🔹 Junior / Youth
🔹 Open / Professional
🔹 Masters / Veterans (age-based)
Categories by Boat Size
- R4 – 4 paddlers
- R6 – 6 paddlers
(Some competitions also include R2 in training or special events)