The last day of the 2012 IVF World Sprint was full of excitement for the v6 1000 and 1500m semi’s and finals, but it is with great sadness that we lost one of Hawaii’s Kupuna paddlers today. During the Kupuna masters race, Bob Fiulkerson from Maui suffered a massive heart attack. Volunteers and emergency response did all they could.

Although this was a very difficult time for all the countries paddlers, there was a great connection with everyone as prayers were said and paddlers accompanied the medical vehicle out of the park with paddles raised in honor.

Racing commenced after a blessing by New Zealand in honour of Bob’s passion for the sport. CORA sends their thoughts and prayers to the Bob’s family, friends, and paddling community. Updates on race finals will be provided soon.

Day 4 – 46 races but only 1 final. And in that race, Canada took gold in the Master 70 Women – V6 1000! The 1,000 and 1,500 m. races are time to show off the skills on the turns. The race course is 250m. so the 1,000 m. race requires 3 turns and the 1,500 m. race is 5 turns. The stroke and steer really have to show their stuff while the rest of the crew powers it on.

Just as the Open Men’s 1500 m. heats started (5 races to go in the day), the thunder clouds rolled in and the rain came down, leaving everyone running for cover! Race organisers suspended racing for the day and will pick up where they left off tomorrow. The weather man has been predicting this all week but it’s not expected to last. They’ll all be ready to go in the morning for the final day of the 2012 World Sprints!

Day 3 – the Calgary Canoe Club put on another day of amazing racing. Team Canada took home medals in 10 more events! The day wrapped up with the the Cultural Night. Teams from Canada, NZ, Rapa Nui, Hawaii provided the entertainment with chanting, singing and dancing.

Days 4 and 5 are all about turns with 1000m and 1500m races. Live streaming is available on the 2012 Sprint website – check it out and see who makes the best turns and how they do it!.