International Canoe Federation Members Visit Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City recently presented International Canoe Federation members with keys to the city as preparations continue for the canoe slalom events in the build-up to the 2028 Olympic Summer Games.

ICF President Thomas Konietzko, Vice President Lluis Rabaneda and Secretary General Richard Pettit received keys from Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt during their two-day visit to Oklahoma City, which featured a tour of the Riversport OKC venue.

“It is a great honor for us to receive the symbolic key to Oklahoma City from Mayor Holt,” said Konietzko. “This is one of the best facilities in the world for our sport. The design of the venue is beautiful so I know the athletes and spectators will love it here and it is located close to the city which makes it very special.

“You can also be sure that a lot of our athletes and teams will come to Oklahoma City over the next three years to use this facility for training.”

Pending the approval of the LA City Council, the OKC Riversport rapid whitewater center —which previously staged the ICF Canoe Sprint Super Cup in 2021 and 2022 — will host the canoe slalom events during the LA28 Olympic Games.

The city is also poised to host two ICF world ranking events, with the first of those taking place next month and the second in 2027, as well as both the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships and ICF Congress in 2026.

“Our venue will be able to meet all the needs and expectations for the World Championships and the Olympic Games,” said Riversport Founder Mike Knopp. “Everything is being put in place with legacy in mind and that is very important for us, the ICF and the International Olympic Committee.”

The ICF leadership team also visited Oklahoma City University and had a meeting at the mayor’s office.

“What is about to happen over the next three years will truly position Oklahoma City as a paddle sport capital, not just for the nation but for the entire globe,” Holt said. “By bestowing the key to Oklahoma City, we want the ICF to know that they are always welcome here and they are one of our most important partners.”