Surfskis now eligible for K1 class

The Devizes to Westminster Organisation Ltd committee is excited to announce that for the 2026 ThruDark Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race, surfskis will be eligible to be used in the K1 class.

Up until now, surfskis have been excluded from the list of eligible class for the ThruDark Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race, but as the race looks to be as inclusive as possible going forward, and with an increase in the popularity of surfskis being used in marathon racing events over the last few years, surfskis will now be eligible to take part in the race on a trial basis.

That trial will initially be limited to the 2026 race to establish the demand and success of the craft on the course, and will only be eligible for the Senior Singles (K1) class. In order to be eligible, surfskis will also need to be fitted with a rudder.

DW Organisation Ltd chairman, Paul Fielden said: “We recognise that the number of people paddling ocean racing surfskis has increased considerably in the last five years or so, and so it is not uncommon to see paddlers using them in Hasler races now.

“In line with the increasing popularity of these versatile boats, DW will run a trial in 2026 whereby surfski paddlers can enter and compete within the Senior Singles class.

“We are hopeful that this attracts members of the surfski community to come and test themselves in an endurance event that encompasses canal, river and tidal waterways.”