The ACA recently hosted the largest Paracanoe Training Camp and Team Trials in program history, bringing together athletes, coaches, and support staff from across the country for a week of training, competition, and community building.
The training camp served as a valuable opportunity for athletes to sharpen their skills, learn from one another, and prepare for Team Trials, which also marked the largest selection event ever held by the ACA’s Paracanoe program. A total of 20 athletes competed across 10 different kayak (KL) and va’a (VL) classifications, demonstrating the continued growth and strength of adaptive paddlesports in the United States.
The event selected the athletes who will represent the US at upcoming National Team and World Championship competitions this summer. These races will serve as the first qualification opportunities on the road to the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.
“The growth of this event reflects the incredible dedication of our athletes, coaches, volunteers, and supporters,” said ACA Competition Director Jed Hinkley. “Seeing so many competitors across multiple classifications is an exciting indicator of the future of Paracanoe and Para Va’a in the United States.”
Team Trials Results
VL3 Women
1st Place: Jillian Elwart
2nd Place: Tatiana Hoare
3rd Place: Jana Remy
VL3 Men
1st Place: Declan Farmer
2nd Place: Rudy Garcia-Tolson
3rd Place: Bill Drislane
KL3 Men
1st Place: Jack Wallace
2nd Place: Deva Ramireddy
KL2 Men
1st Place: Rudy Garcia-Tolson
2nd Place: Declan Farmer
3rd Place: Shad Isaac
KL3 Women
1st Place: Emily Gray
2nd Place: Amanda Munkeby
3rd Place: Emily Saler
KL2 Women
1st Place: Wendy Gideon
2nd Place: Hannah Platner
KL1 Men
1st Place: Jacob Rosenquist
VL2 Men
1st Place: Blake Haxton
2nd Place: Yasir Shah
3rd Place: Shad Isaac
Beyond the racing, the camp showcased the camaraderie and determination that define the Paracanoe community. Athletes supported one another throughout training sessions and competition, creating an environment that was both highly competitive and deeply encouraging.
As the National Team prepares for international competition this summer, the accomplishments of these athletes represent more than race results. They demonstrate the continued expansion of adaptive paddlesports opportunities and the growing pathway for athletes pursuing excellence at the national, international, and Paralympic levels.
Congratulations to all athletes who participated in this historic training camp and Team Trials. We look forward to cheering them on as they begin their journey toward LA 2028.