More than 300 athletes from over 40 nations are in Western Sydney this week for the 2025 ICF Slalom World Championships, with racing underway at Penrith Whitewater Stadium.
The world’s best paddlers gather at Taronga Zoo ahead of the world championships at Penrith. Supplied
The event was officially launched last Friday at Taronga Zoo, with slalom icons gathering to mark the start of six days of competition. Up to 20,000 fans are expected, with the Championships backed by $2 million from the NSW Government and $1.2 million from the Federal Government.
Australian Olympic champion Jess Fox will not compete in the World Championships after undergoing surgery to remove a kidney tumour last month; however, she will be on hand to support her teammates at her home course.
Australia’s Codie Davidson (left) chats with Olympic champion Jessica Fox at Taronga Zoo. Supplied
Her place in the kayak cross has been taken by 18-year-old Codie Davidson, who will make her senior Australian team debut in Penrith. Davidson will face the world’s best in the head-to-head discipline, where four paddlers race the course at the same time.
In Jess’s absence, the Fox family will still be represented, with Olympic gold medallist Noemie Fox ready to lead the charge.
“We’ve been dreaming and waiting for this moment for a long time… I can’t wait to get out there and make our community proud,” she said.
International paddlers meet a kangaroo at Taronga Zoo during the launch of the ICF Slalom World Championships. Supplied
The Championships will also celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Penrith Whitewater Stadium, a venue from the 2000 Sydney Olympics. ICF President Thomas Konietzko called it “one of the most prestigious events in our sport” and praised the efforts of Paddle Australia, Penrith City Council, and volunteers.
NSW Minister for Sport Steve Kamper said:
“Sydney is Australia’s undisputed home of sport and Monday’s championships will be a major sporting and economic boost to our city’s west.”
He added that the influx of international athletes at Penrith Whitewater Stadium would also inspire the next generation and ensure a lasting legacy.
Federal Minister for Sport Anika Wells also highlighted the championships’ long-term benefits. She praised the Albanese Government’s $1.2 million contribution to staging the event, saying the partnership with the New South Wales Government had made it possible to host another world-class competition, especially with the Brisbane 2032 Games on the horizon.
For Penrith locals, the excitement is building. Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM said the event would inspire young people’s involvement in sport and deliver a major boost for local businesses.
International competitors savour the moment at Taronga Zoo. Supplied
Tickets remain available at sydney2025.com/tickets.
