The oldest canoeing competition on the international calendar, the Descent of the Sella in Spain, once again attracted huge crowds, and more than 1000 participants from around the world.
It was the 83rd edition of this incredibly popular race, and this year 1283 canoeists from 16 countries took to the water. It was estimated more than 200,000 spectators lined the banks of the Sella
Among the starters was 74-year-old Alexandr Shaparenko, a gold and silver medalist from the Mexico Olympics, double gold in Munich in 1972, and seven world championship titles.
Also taking part were South African paddlers Kevin Culverwell and Paul Chalupsky, commemorating the 50th anniversary of their victory in the world biggest canoeing race in 1969.
Pietermaritzburg-based Culverwell, now 70 and Durban resident Chalupsky, 82, were invited as special guests of the race.
Full results of the Descent of the Sella can be found here.
