Sport Preview: Kayak

Get ready for an exhilarating aquatic spectacle as the sport of kayak makes its debut at the Sol2023 Pacific Games right here in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

Although va’a has been a long-established sport at the Pacific Games, this will be the first time kayak events have been contested.

Running from Monday 27 to Thursday 30 November at the picturesque DC Park in the eastern part of Honiara, this event promises a thrilling display of skill and speed on the water.

Paddlers either race alone (K1) or in pairs (K2) and will be vying for glory in the K1 – 500m and K2 – 500m races for both men and women, along with the challenging 16km marathon races for both men and women in the K1 and K2 categories.

With participants hailing from six countries – Cook Islands, New Caledonia, Palau, Samoa, Solomon Islands and Tahiti – the competition is set to be intense.

Watch out for the exceptional athletes from these nations, as they navigate the water with precision and power, showcasing their prowess in this dynamic sport.

The scenic DC Park provides the perfect backdrop for this inaugural kayak competition, inviting spectators to witness the mastery of these athletes as they paddle towards victory. Best of all, entry is free.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of Pacific Games history in the making. Head to DC Park between 7:30am and 3:00pm on Monday or Tuesday, or between 8:00am and 12:00pm on Wednesday and Thursday, to catch the action.

By Tali Dever, Pacific Games News Service