Feb 01, Kathmandu - The 9th National Rapids and 14th National Canoe Slalom Championships kicked off with grandeur on Sunday in Trishuli River, Fishtling, Chitwan. Organized by the Nepal Rafting & Canoeing Association (NRCA) with support from the Bagmati Provincial Sports Development Council, the event marks a significant milestone in Nepal's adventure sports arena.

The official inauguration was conducted by Rajiv Shrestha, President of NRCA and Secretary General of the Nepal Olympic Committee. During the opening, President Shrestha handed over the paddles to technical head Nim Bahadur Magar, symbolizing the start of the competition.

Running from February 1 to 3, the championships see the participation of 51 athletes from various river regions and clubs across the country. Competing on the waters of Trishuli River, athletes showcase their courage and skills across different categories of rafting and canoeing.

This competition not only serves as a national-level event but also acts as a qualifier for international competitions. The top five performers in canoe slalom will gain a spot in the first phase of selection for the Asian Games scheduled to be held in Japan this September, as announced by President Shrestha.

With the inclusion of rafting and canoeing in the Asian Games, this championship is viewed as a crucial platform for selecting Nepal’s capable and talented athletes for the international stage.

The event will conclude on Tuesday, with cash prizes for the top three winners: NPR 25,000, 15,000, and 7,500 for canoeing, and NPR 65,000, 35,000, and 25,000 for rafting, respectively, the organizers stated.