Paddlers next in line for Games push

OCEAN paddle racing and outrigger canoeing are the latest coastal sports to dip their toes in the water of a Commonwealth Games bid, with peak bodies touting the Geelong region as a likely host.

The International Canoe Federation (ICF), with support from national body Paddle Australia (PA), has applied to be part of the 2026 regional Victorian event, as part of a push to thrust the sport into the limelight of more major sporting events.

Ocean racing includes surkski, sea kayak and sea touring races in open water.

PA CEO Phil Jones said the recent inclusion of niche sport variants in Games programs, such as 3×3 basketball, had emboldened paddling to mount its case.

“Paddling is in a fortunate position in having a range of well-developed and exciting disciplines to offer,” he said.

“Another home Commonwealth Games provides a great opportunity for Paddle Australia to grow the profile of our sport and showcase our other disciplines on offer, outside of the Olympic disciplines.

“Working with ICF, Paddle Australia has applied to Commonwealth Games Australia for the inclusion of ocean racing at Victoria 2026.

Meanwhile, Mr Jones said PA was working with the global peak body for outrigger canoe competitions – the International Va’a Federation – on its bid for inclusion in the same event.

He also said Geelong, which is already set to be a watersports hub in its hosting duties for the 2026 Games, looms as the ideal location to host events if included.

“Not only would the inclusion of these two disciplines provide increased Australian team representative opportunities for paddlers, the events could also utilise facilities already planned for triathlon and open water swimming at Geelong, one of the four regional centres hosting sports in 2026,” Mr Jones said.

“Both ocean racing and outrigger canoe also enjoy strong participation among Commonwealth countries in the Pacific, which aligns with the overall Government priorities for Victoria 2026.”

The proposal comes as lifesaving and coastal rowing each submitted bids for inclusion in the 2026 event card, with Geelong-Surf Coast likely destinations if successful.