Everyone starts from scratch: Head Coach Jiří Prskavec on the Czech Canoe Slalom Team Selection

The fight for a spot on the Czech national canoe slalom team kicks off this weekend, April 26–27, at the Trnávka course near Želiv. The opening two races of the ČEZ Group Czech Cup will determine the first rankings, but the decisive moments will come a week later in Prague–Troja, May 3–4.

According to head coach Jiří Prskavec Sr., the 2025 selection could bring a few surprises.

Open Field: Everyone Has a Chance

“This year, the selection is wide open. Almost anyone can earn a spot – no one is pre-qualified like in past seasons,” says Prskavec.

Still, he hopes the core of the team remains unchanged:

“From a long-term perspective, it's better when the team stays relatively stable. Last year we had ten slalom athletes filling twelve spots, with two of them competing in more than one discipline.”

New Blood? Possibly, but Not Too Much

Could fans expect to see fresh faces in the Czech team?

“If we get two new names in the lineup, that’s a healthy refresh. But if half the team changes, it probably means the coaches aren’t doing their job right. I expect the core of the team to remain – these are experienced paddlers who also have the best training conditions.”

Kayak Cross: New Names in the Mix

The kayak cross nomination process is already underway, with final confirmation pending based on slalom results.

“We already have Olga Samková and Matyáš Novák nominated, with Martin Rudorfer currently sitting in third,” says Prskavec.

Most Competitive? Likely Among the Women

The most open battle is expected among women’s K1 paddlers.

“Athletes like Amálka Hilgertová and Lucka Nesnídalová are definitely in the mix. I think we’ll see the toughest competition in the women’s kayak category,” says the coach.

Prskavec Jr. Returns – Going for Two Disciplines

Olympic champion Jiří Prskavec Jr. isn’t pre-qualified this year, so he’ll be fighting for his place in both K1 and C1 categories.

“He struggled with eczema during the training camp in Australia, but he’s been feeling better since returning home. I believe he can qualify in both events. This year, everyone is starting from scratch – the final decision will be made at the last two races in Troja.”