Gainesville to Host American Canoe Association US Sprint National Championships

The Greater Gainesville Sports Alliance in Georgia has announced the Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club will host the American Canoe Association US Sprint National Championships from August 6–9, 2024, at Lake Lanier Olympic Park in Gainesville.

The four-day regatta is open to the public and will showcase canoe and kayak sprint athletes of all ages and skill levels, including events in multiple age groups for 200m, 500m, 1,000m and 5K distances. Hundreds of athletes will travel from across the United States to compete on the nine-lane course for national titles.

“The ACA Sprint National Championships represent an incredible opportunity for the community to witness world-class canoe sprint racing,” said McKenna Kauffmann, manager of the Greater Gainesville Sports Alliance. “We invite everyone to join us at Lake Lanier Olympic Park to experience the thrill of the races and support these remarkable athletes.”

Lake Lanier Olympic Park hosted the rowing, canoe and kayak events during the 1996 Olympic Summer Games. The venue features a new addition, The Boathouse at Lake Lanier, which overlooks the lake and provides a backdrop for both participants and spectators.

“We are excited to host paddlers from across the country at Lake Lanier Olympic Park,” said Kim Martin, executive director for the Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club. “This event not only celebrates the athleticism and dedication of our athletes but also highlights Gainesville’s rich Olympic legacy.”

The event aligns with the introduction of Women’s Sprint Canoe at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking its second appearance since its debut at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics.