Rowing slalom is a race on a stormy stream of water, during which athletes must go through all the gates set by the organizers. For competitions, both rivers and artificial canals are used, the flow speed in which is not less than 2 m / s.
Rowing slalom first appeared at the 1972 Western European Olympics. The organizers of the competition created an artificial track, the construction of which cost $ 4,000,000. Although slalom became an interesting performance for spectators in Munich, it was excluded from the Olympiad program for 20 years. This discipline reappeared in 1992 at the Barcelona Olympics.
When passing the track, athletes strive to meet the specified time, which usually ranges from 100 to 130 seconds, strictly following the rules of the competition. The rowers must pass all the gates without touching their poles and not interfere with their opponents. Violations of the rules are punishable by accrual of penalty minutes or even disqualification.
As soon as the boat's hull passes the white start line, the timing begins. It ends when the boat crosses the white finish line.
Race results are determined based on the results of two attempts given to each athlete. On the first pass, the rowers have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the course. Therefore, the final swim is overcome faster and easier, because the organizers can change the location of 6 gates maximum.
Men compete in kayaks and canoes, and women only in kayaks. Canoes used in rowing slalom are of two types: singles and twos.
To ensure fair conditions for all athletes, their starting order is determined with boats of less powerful rowers in front. In addition, standards have been introduced that establish the minimum possible weight for kayaks and canoes.
In 2006, the Russian Federation of Rowing Slalom was created, which is engaged in the development of this sport and support of the institute of national teams. This union includes 17 Regional Federations.
