Often, collaborations start with a simple coffee, leading to the realization that we either share the same vision or possess solutions to each other’s challenges.

This is precisely how the Paddle Games project and the Ciutat de Palma Trophy came to be.

It all began with a conversation at an international competition with André Santos, CEO of NELO, where we discussed the future of our beloved sport. We explored important topics like sustainability, carbon footprints, gender parity, inclusivity, and how to make canoeing even more appealing to spectators.

Just two weeks later, during a national competition and another coffee, I met with Carlos Borrás from the Real Club Náutico de Palma, a former national team paddler in the 200m event. He agreed that my idea was the perfect solution to his logistical issue.

These initial conversations snowballed into many more, and without the goodwill and professionalism of André and Carlos, the Palma event wouldn’t have been realized so quickly or within such a limited budget.

This collaboration, however, extended beyond just NELO and the Real Club Náutico de Palma. The contributions of other entities were also essential to bringing this event to life.

The Balearic Canoeing Federation, especially Xavi Marroig, provided critical human and technical resources to ensure the competition ran smoothly.

The Palma City Council and the Municipal Institute of Sport helped by facilitating the event in the stunning and iconic location of Parc de la Mar, at the foot of the magnificent Cathedral.

The Royal Spanish Canoeing Federation’s communications team also played a key role, broadcasting this innovative and distinctive competition to a broader audience.

Moreover, the live broadcast and streaming by IB3, the regional television of the Balearic Islands, was a game changer. Thanks to them, images of the Ciutat de Palma Trophy reached audiences around the globe, and I’ve since received countless messages from international canoeing friends congratulating us on the event’s spectacular atmosphere and setting.

This event would have been incredibly challenging to pull off without the support of the Paddle Games team sponsors—Oliu, Coca-Cola, Grupo Eulen, Stellantis & You Palma, Mapfre, and Beyup.

Also, Canoeing House helped us with the promotion of the event on social media creating posts and stories on Instagram.

Lastly, the Palma Paddle Games would not have been the same without the 32 elite athletes who boldly took part in this adventure.

They are the true ambassadors of canoeing, and their passion and commitment are key to showcasing the sport’s beauty and excitement. I firmly believe that together we were able to demonstrate the tremendous potential canoeing holds, and how it can evolve to become even more captivating for participants and spectators alike.

This is just the beginning. Let’s take on the next challenge!