Sprint Racing is divided into two main categories, canoeing and kayaking. Sprint races are held over distances of 200m, 500m, 1000m, and 6000m. Paddlers race in singles, doubles, and fours, as well as a fifteen-person boat called a War Canoe. When naming racing boats, one uses the letter 'K' or 'C' followed by a number 1, 2, or 4.   

Sprint racing is governed by a registered amateur athletic federation called the Canoe Kayak Canada (CKC). The CKC boasts a membership of over 6500 sprint paddlers, coaches, officials and volunteers across Canada. The CKC is the nationally and internationally recognized sport governing body for sprint canoe racing in Canada.  You can find out more information by going to the following website: www.canoekayak.ca or www.adckc.ca 

Canoes are paddled by a paddler kneeling on one knee, using a single blade paddle. There is no rudder or keel, so the athlete(s) must steer the canoe throughout the race.  While sprint racing does entail individual and small team work, the full team spirit of racing comes together in the War Canoe (C-15), which is an event originating in Canada during the late 1800's. It consists of a 30 foot, open racing canoe propelled by 14 paddlers and steered by a coxswain. 

The K-1, K-2 and K-4 events designations refer to a kayak class with one, two and four paddlers respectively.  Kayaks are paddled by an athlete sitting in the kayak on a fixed seat, using a double-bladed paddle. The kayaks have a rudder that the paddler moves with their feet, controlling the direction of the kayak while they paddle.