Canoe Slalom judges from across the Pan American continent received expert advice during a course held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The International Canoe Federation ran the course together with the Pan American Canoe Federation with the backing of the Brazilian Canoe Confederation (CBCa),
The training took place within the Deodoro Radical Park alongside the Pan American Canoe Slalom Championships.
Doubling up as a qualifier for the Paris 2024 Olympics, the event ran from March 15 to 17 at the Deodoro Olympic Whitewater Stadium - the Rio 2016 venue.
Judges represented Pan American countries including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, the United States, Mexico, Paraguay and Peru as well as European nations Slovakia and Czechia.
Jean-Michel Prono, Chair of the ICF Canoe Slalom Committee, led the course while ICF Vice President Cecília Farias was also present.
“The ICF is seeking to increase the number of races at continental and regional level on all continents,” said Mr Prono.
“This opportunity here in Rio is extremely important, as we have a good response with many candidates.”
CBCa President Rafael Girotto also stressed the importance of the course, highlighting the national governing body’s commitment to promoting development and excellence in the sport.
"This training plays a fundamental role in the formation of continental judges, guaranteeing the quality and impartiality of Canoe Slalom competitions,” said Mr Girotto.
“The CBCa is proud to sponsor this event, which contributes significantly to the advancement of the sport not only in Brazil, but throughout the Americas.”
Alessandra Pessoa de Vasconcellos, who was among the judges to participate in the course, added: "As a national referee since 2016, I've had the honour of being part of the world of canoe.
“I took part in the ICF course, which provided training for new international referees, and it was a spectacular experience.
“In the course taught by Jean Michel, I learned that I must take responsibility for ensuring that the rules are applied fairly and impartially, and that each movement, each paddle, must be evaluated with extreme precision.”
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