The Brazilian Canoeing Confederation has officially inaugurated its Amazing Canoeing Project that aims to take Canoe Sprint and Paracanoe upstream to the north of the country.
A special ceremony was held in São Domingos do Capim in the northern state of Pará where authorities and athletes came together to mark the first day of the program.
The CBCa is seeking to use the Amazon Canoeing Project to transform lives and promote local talent by reaching 1,500 people, including riverside families.
“Canoeing is an ancestral practice that has been part of the life and culture of riverside communities for centuries,” a statement from the CBCa read.
“By bringing this sport to the region, CBCa not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also rescues and celebrates local traditions and knowledge.”
The project is set to see the implementation of eight centers for Canoe Sprint and Paracanoe in the northern region of the South American country.
São Domingos do Capim, Altamira and Santarém in Pará, Porto Nacional in Tocantins and Ji – Paraná in Rondônia are looking to benefit from the scheme which has received the backing of Brazil’s Ministry of Sports.
Physical education professionals are expected to be trained by CBCa to provide high-quality training to youngsters once the necessary equipment has been acquired.
CBCa President Rafael Girotto attended the inauguration ceremony along with Pará Canoeing Federation President Hiel Gesã.
Mr Girotto said he expected the Amazon Canoeing Project to be a huge success that would lead to talented paddlers going on to represent the Amazon region and Brazil.
"I want to congratulate everyone involved in this great project,” said Mr Girotto.
“I am fully convinced that the Amazon Canoeing Project will be a resounding success and will yield valuable fruits for Brazilian sport.
“I am sure that from here, from the Amazon, outstanding athletes will emerge ready to honor our colors in the most diverse competitions.
“This is a unique opportunity to promote the inclusion, development and talent that abounds in our region.
“We're building a sporting legacy for generations.
“Congratulations to all.”
Click here for more from the Brazilian Canoeing Confederation
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