SerpApi.Org
Athletes from around the world are competing in the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in Oklahoma City as they begin the road toward qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games.
The second day of competition began Tuesday morning with athletes taking on the kayak slalom course at the Oklahoma City venue, which will also host canoe slalom events during the 2028 Olympics.
The championships mark the first opportunity for competitors to earn qualifying points toward Olympic qualification. While the Games are still two years away, athletes said events like this provide valuable experience and preparation on an international stage.
International athletes come to OKC
Among those competing are athletes from Senegal, who said they have enjoyed their time in Oklahoma City and were surprised by what the city has to offer.
"To be honest, at the beginning, people felt that it's not an interesting city... like Chicago, New York, Miami," Senegalese canoeist Jean-Pierre Bourhis said. ":t's a great surprise that Oklahoma City welcomed Canoe Slalom here, and there [are] plenty of things to do, so it's quite a great surprise and we enjoy a lot of activity here."
Community volunteers pitch in
The event has also drawn volunteers from across the community, including a woman named Debbie, who said she has enjoyed watching the athletes and being part of the international competition.
"Being outdoors and watching this wonderful event of the World Championships, and also seeing the athletes here in Oklahoma City," Debbie said. "This is such a plus for our state and for Oklahoma City to have this and to know that we're going to be hosting the Olympics."
Debbie said she hopes to continue volunteering when Oklahoma City hosts Olympic events in 2028.
"That's what I'm striving for," she said. "Many of us have already filled out applications. Based upon how we do, we may be getting selected. But you know, if not, we'll have a ticket to be here to root our Olympians on."
