Paddle-Ability is the term used by British Canoeing to describe all Paddlesport activity for disabled people. The term focuses on a person’s ability to take part in Paddlesport rather than their disability. British Canoeing encourages and supports anyone with any disability or impairment to participate in competition in specific Paddle-Ability events and mainstream competition.



Paddle-Ability events
Specific Paddle-Ability events are held at National Regattas in Nottingham from March to September. Racing is based on ability (in time bands).
Entries must be submitted, in advance, with other club entries via the Club Team Leaders. If your club does not already have an appointed team leader please contact: paddle-ability@britishcanoeing.org.uk.
Entrants may have an escort boat to provide support to the starting posts; limited support is also permitted during races. Escort paddlers will be expected to wear yellow escort bibs.
The current events available are:
- K1: 200m, 500m
- K2: 200m, 500m
Paddle-Ability Sprint time-bands
200m | ||||
Band | Kayak Men | Kayak Junior Men | Kayak Women | Kayak Junior Women |
A+ | 0.52 | 1.06 | 1.12 | 1.20 |
A | 1.00 | 1.14 | 1.20 | 1.30 |
B | 1.06 | 1.22 | 1.30 | 1.44 |
C | 1.14 | 1.36 | 1.44 | 1.54 |
D | 1.22 | 1.48 | 1.54 | 2.06 |
E | 1.36 | 2.00 | 2.06 | 2.18 |
F | 1.48 | 2.12 | 2.18 | 2.30 |
500m | ||||
Band | Kayak Men | Kayak Junior Men | Kayak Women | Kayak Junior Women |
A+ | 2.15 | 2.45 | 2.40 | 3.00 |
A | 2.30 | 3.05 | 3.00 | 3.20 |
B | 2.45 | 3.30 | 3.20 | 3.45 |
C | 3.05 | 4.00 | 3.45 | 4.20 |
D | 3.30 | 4.30 | 4.20 | 4.45 |
E | 4.00 | 5.00 | 4.45 | 5.15 |
F | 4.30 | 5.30 | 5.15 | 5.45 |
National Paddle-Ability awards
Every year, at the September National Regatta, National Paddle-Ability Trophies are awarded. Details of these can be seen in the table below:

Downloads