Home waters, high expectations. Czech team ready for the Canoe Slalom World Cup

Prague’s Troja will host another round of the ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup this weekend. Home fans can look forward to the full Czech national team, led by Olympic champion Jiří Prskavec, returning competitor Vít Přindiš, and Olympic silver medalist Lukáš Rohan. Organizers also promise an attractive race format and a rich accompanying program.

“There is an effort to further develop the event and offer spectators an even more exciting experience. A big thank you goes to all partners who support the competition and help make it happen in Prague,” said Jiří Rohan, head of the organizing committee.

President of the Czech Canoe Union Stanislav Ježek highlighted the importance of the home race for both athletes and fans. “These events motivate young athletes to fight their way into the national team and show themselves in front of a home crowd. I believe fans will not be discouraged even by possible rain and will create, as always, a great atmosphere in Troja,” he said.

According to head coach Jiří Prskavec Sr., the Czech team is well prepared for the highlight of the domestic part of the season. “The injury list is almost empty and I believe the athletes are in good shape. Troja has a unique atmosphere and is popular not only among Czech athletes but also among international competitors,” he said.

Home team hopes to benefit from a vibrant atmosphere

Home conditions will also be a major motivation for Jiří Prskavec Jr. After switching to kayak cross, he will appear in front of Czech fans in the only home international event of the season. “My long-term goal is the World Championships. Troja is an important test that will show whether my preparation is heading in the right direction. Most importantly, I want to be satisfied with my runs and enjoy the atmosphere with the fans,” he said.

Vít Přindiš also returns to the home course after a one-year break, having once again earned his place in the national team. “Last season gave me some distance and new motivation. I am happy to be back and to have the chance to compete at home in front of the fans in two disciplines. I am really looking forward to the races,” said the experienced paddler.

Lukáš Rohan feels similarly about his return to the national team. The Olympic silver medalist from Tokyo admitted that the Troja World Cup was one of the key motivations for his comeback. “I would like to experience the World Cup in Troja again as an athlete, ideally in a final. Last year gave me time to reflect and gain a new perspective on sport and life,” he said.

Returns, ambitions and home fans

Optimism ahead of the home event is shared by other Czech athletes as well. Kayaker Jakub Krejčí continues his demanding preparation for the World Championships, but believes the home crowd will give him extra energy. Tereza Kneblová builds on her victory at the opening World Cup in Tacen, which she described as a pleasant surprise and proof of growing confidence.

Young athlete Matyáš Novák has high ambitions, aiming to secure a place in the slalom team next season. Amálie Hilgertová is enjoying racing without unnecessary pressure after successfully joining the national team and hopes to continue her positive momentum in Troja.

An emotional story is written by Bára Galušková. She earned her place in the national team, while her sister Antonie narrowly missed out. “It hurts for her, because she is the one who pushes me forward all the time. I hope that one day we will meet together in the A national team,” she said.

The Canoe Slalom World Cup in Prague-Troja promises not only battles among the world’s elite, but also strong Czech stories. Home fans will have plenty of reasons to head to the river and create the traditional vibrant atmosphere for the national team.

Thanks to partners

This prestigious sporting event is held with the support of a wide range of partners – primarily the general partner ČEZ Group, main partner UNIQA insurance group, the Czech National Sports Agency, the City of Prague, and others.

Photogallery (Jonas Fiedler)