International body paves way for equality in sport

Leanne Guinea

Lawrence (NSW) and Guinea (VIC), who are excelling at the new class being offered to women slalom paddlers, were selected as part of the 2009 Australian Senior Slalom Team following their impressive selection trial form, but it was still unsure whether or not they would compete in Europe.

At the ICF Board of Directors meeting held in Lausanne, Switzerland, a decision was taken to include women’s C1 in at the 2010 world championships. It was also confirmed that women’s C1 will be included at all three World Cups in 2009 with an official demonstration event also to be held at the 2009 word championships.

The decision paves the way for youngster Lawrence to compete in two classes, after also achieving selection in the women’s K1 event. Specialist, Leanne Guinea, can now look forward to some competition after taking up the C1 event seriously last year.

“It’s great news,” said the 24 year old, Guinea. “Now we have something to aim for and an opportunity to race against the best in the world.”

Australian Canoeing President, Danielle Woodward, says it is a substantial landmark for slalom racing and a move towards equality for women in canoeing.

“The decision to host a demonstration event at this year’s worlds ahead of the world championships in 2010 is a great step forward and it means that the ICF is serious in its approach to gender equity.”

The Australian slalom team will continue its preparation over the coming months before they travel to France to compete at World Cup 1 on 27‐28 June.

Full Australian Team:

Robin Bell (WA)
Robin Jeffery (NSW)
Ian Borrows (NSW)

Men’s K1

Warwick Draper (VIC)
Will Forsythe (NSW)
Anthony Brown (NSW)

Kate Lawrence (NSW)
Rosalyn Lawrence (NSW)
Sarah Grant (VIC)

Women’s C1

Rosalyn Lawrence (NSW)
Leanne Guinea (VIC)