Iconic WA whitewater course shortened to avoid 'running race'
Low water levels for the 2026 Avon Descent whitewater race have prompted a 17-kilometre cut to the course to avoid competitors running with their kayaks.
The 2026 Avon Descent whitewater event commenced in Northam, a town located 95 kilometers northeast of Perth. Due to low water levels, organizers decided to shorten the 124km race, moving the starting point from Northam to Katrine Crossing and cutting 17 kilometers off the race. Competitors will finish day one at Cobbler's Pool in Toodyay, then complete the final 72km to the Bayswater finish line.
The longest whitewater event in the southern hemisphere has been abbreviated to prevent it from turning into a "running race" and to ensure competitor safety. Northam Avon Descent Committee chair Greg Kaeding explained that the decision to shorten the course and relocate the start was crucial as water levels were extremely low, particularly in the northern section of the course.
He emphasized that preserving the essence of the whitewater event and ensuring the safety of competitors was paramount. Despite the challenging conditions, there was a 10% increase in registrations, with over 300 competitors vying for participation. Competitor Matthew Even and his partner Matthew Furr, who previously won the powercraft race in 2025, expressed disappointment over the reduced distance but were determined to give their best performance.
Even noted that the low water levels presented a unique and potentially challenging race scenario. Shire of Northam President Chris Antonio commended the competitors for embracing the altered conditions, highlighting that the Avon Descent is one of the rare races worldwide that demands adaptability in any weather.
Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
