ICF Sports
Ocean Racing (Surfski)
Ocean Racing (Surfski)
ICF Canoe Ocean Racing (COR) is a paddlesports discipline combining the thrill of competition with the beauty and power of the sea. In ocean racing, competitors traverse open water courses using long, sleek, sit-on-top kayaks known as surfskis. Often made of fiberglass, kevlar, and/or carbon fiber, surfskis are ultralight, watertight, self-bailing craft capable of handling even the most extreme ocean conditions.
Ocean racing attracts both seasoned athletes and newcomers alike. It’s a sport where endurance meets excitement, offering racers the chance to test their limits against the backdrop of America’s stunning coastal landscapes and unique open water locations.
Whether you’re an experienced paddler or just beginning to explore ocean racing, the USA surfski paddling community welcomes you. Races range from short “around the cans” buoy races, to exhilarating downwind runs, to challenging long-distance events, accommodating all levels of skill and ambition.
And, as part of the ICF’s global network of national federations, the ACA facilitates opportunities for paddlers to compete in high-caliber national and international ocean racing events as part of the USA Ocean Racing Team.
Funding and Support
The ACA Ocean Racing Committee has launched the USA Ocean Racing National Development Fund, which is dedicated to advancing the sport of ocean racing by supporting athlete training, competition expenses, introductory programs, coaching education, and competition production throughout our country. Please consider contributing to the growth of ocean racing – Donate Now!
Governance
ICF-spec canoe ocean racing in the USA is supported by the ACA Ocean Racing Committee (ORC). The Ocean Racing Committee’s mission is to represent the USA ocean racing community to national and international stakeholders, promote domestic competition production, create pathways for athletic development, and facilitate athlete participation at national and international ocean racing competitions
The Ocean Racing Committee is currently comprised of the following individuals:
- Matt Drayer, Chairperson
- Greg Barton, Vice-Chairperson
- Geoff Pearson, Secretary
- Jesse Lishchuk, Treasurer
Help us shape the future of ICF-spec ocean racing in the USA! Contact the ORC at orc@americancanoe.net
National Development Program
The ACA Ocean Racing Committee manages the USA Canoe Ocean Racing National Development Program to encourage ICF-spec canoe ocean racing (COR) competition production and participation. At a high level, the National Development Program features an annual National Series, a performance-oriented Athlete Classification System, and a collection of tools and resources for athletes, coaches, organizers, and clubs. Please visit USASurfski.com for details.
USA Ocean Racing Team Selection
As a member of the ICF’s global network of 172 national federations, the ACA facilitates opportunities for paddlers to compete in ICF-spec canoe ocean racing (COR) events throughout the world via the USA Ocean Racing Team. Interested athletes may contact the ACA Ocean Racing committee to communicate their intention to participate in a particular continental/international competition.
Note: The ACA does not currently conduct team trials to determine eligibility for continental or international canoe ocean racing competitions. However, in accordance with ICF COR Rule 10.11.1, the ACA Ocean Racing Committee is obligated to review each candidate’s qualifications prior to issuing the required Attestation of Competency letter. Athletes may help demonstrate their readiness for international competition by participating in the Members Cup category of the current year’s USA Surfski National Series, though this is not a strict requirement. For more information please visit USASurfski.com
Ocean Racing Document Archive
ACA Competition Council Ocean Racing Committee Meeting Agendas
