Palma will host the first-ever PADDLE GAMES format competition at the Trofeu Ciutat de Palma on October 12th, bringing together 32 international-level paddlers (16 men and 16 women) for an intense day of racing on the waters of the Parc de la Mar lake in front of the iconic Cathedral.

Organized by the Real Club Náutico de Palma (RCNP) in collaboration with PADDLE GAMES, NELO and THE CANOEING HOUSE, the Ciutat de Palma will present a unique challenge, focused exclusively on a sprint race with a turn around a buoy (paddlers will be able to choose between two buoys), over a yet-to-be-revealed distance, testing the participants’ skills.

This event will feature two different formats:
1. Elite Paddle Games: A team competition raced individually, combining the best of both aspects—a team effort while also recognizing top individual performers. We have already invited 32 athletes (most of them world-class), 16 men and 16 women, who will form 8 teams.
2. U-16’s: In the middle of the day, we will host a local competition for approximately 120 under-16s. The idea is for these young athletes to meet their idols, watch them race, and participate in their own race on the same day.

The format for the Elite races is straightforward and sustainable:
• All athletes will use standardized boats provided at the competition venue.
• The boats are sit-on-top sprint boats, designed to minimize rescue logistics and save time.
• Starts will be given automatically using a timer visible to the paddlers.
• Once the countdown reaches 00:00, the timer will sound a horn-like signal.
• Paddlers are free to position themselves within the allotted time without crossing the start line (similar to sailing). Crossing the line prematurely will result in a 10-second penalty.
• The races will range between 300 and 800 meters, featuring two buoys for turning. Paddlers may choose either of the two buoys for their turn.
• All races will be video-judged with fixed cameras at critical points, such as the start and turns.
• The idea is to mix different types of paddlers and skills, creating excitement and uncertainty.

The progression system will be the following:

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