International Canoe Federation Announces Sporting Events To Move From Russia To OKC

Come August two major sporting events are moving from Russia to the heart of Oklahoma City. 

In the wake of the Russian invasion the International Olympic Committee is moving all sporting events out of Russia. They're turning to Oklahoma City’s RIVERSPORT for the two world sporting events. 

“The International Olympic Committee made a directive that all these Olympic related events needed to be taken out of Russia obviously due to the invasion,” said Mike Knopp, the Executive Director at RIVERSPORT. 

The International Canoe Federation turned to Oklahoma City to host the events a week ago. 

“The Canoe Sprint Super Cup is a kayak event. It is a very fast paced, made for television event. This will be globally televised,” said Knopp. 

“It is a pretty great opportunity for us, it helps the city grow. It is obviously a very turbulent time so it’s great that we’ve stepped up to host these sporting events,” said Augustus Cook, an athlete who competed in the 2021 Super Cup. 

He said he looks forward to training in hopes to qualify for the event again. 

“They are super fun, very high intensity, it is under the lights it is a unique situation. We are the only lighted course, sprint kayaking course, in the world,” said Cook. 

The second event coming to OKC from Russia is the 2022 Stand Up Paddling World Cup. 

“Stand up paddle board is one of the fastest growing water sports in the world right now. To have that event here on our river is going to be very exciting. Something for people to come and watch and check out,” said Knopp. 

The Governor and the Oklahoma City Mayor both showed support for the quick change in venue. 

“It kind of goes to the Oklahoma standard helping in situations like this. Similar to when the Hornets came to Oklahoma City following hurricane Katrina you know we stepped up,” he said. 

RIVERSPORT is still working to finalize when in August these events will take place but say they will happen on the same weekend. 

They are also working with local businesses for funding and hospitality for the event.