Launch of Slalom Performance and Talent Pathway Applications

Canoe Wales has opened the application process for the Canoe Slalom Talent Pathway for 2023/24. The pathway is a progressive coaching programme that supports and develops talented young paddlers into slalom athletes ready to represent Wales and GB at national and international competitions and the Olympic Games. 

The team have been busy planning the winter camps and activities. For the first time, the programme will be focusing on new aims which will help to guide delivery.

These are:

·        Developing fast racers on ALL types of courses

·        Mentally and physically robust athletes

·        Quick and excellent decision makers

·        That enjoy the opportunity to deliver performances under pressure

·        Maintaining a love for the sport and its community and aspire to give back as much as they can

As before, paddlers will need to apply for their place on a programme in Wales. The application process is to make the selection of squads more open and transparent, giving the athletes the option to choose which squads they would like to be considered for.

The programme will again aim to deliver three tiers which include three Regional Development Programmes (North, South and South west). This is to support those paddlers and the beginning of the pathway by giving them the skills and preparation they will need to be successful on their paddling careers.

Paddlers who are currently on a programme will have to make an application for any squads they are eligible for - and it doesn’t matter if you’re not currently on a squad, the application process is open to anyone to apply. 

Squads Open for application:

• Regional Development Squads (North, South and South West)
• National Talent Squad
• National Performance Squad

More information on each of the programmes can be found on the Slalom Programme pages on our website.

In the selection policy, there are details of what performance standards are required for each tier of the pathway, so it is strongly advised to read the selection policy before starting the application process.