The regional canoeing and kayaking championship scheduled for October 11, 2026, in Cholet, France, has been canceled due to high levels of cyanobacteria in the Lac du Verdon. The Club olympique canoë-kayak (COCK) of Cholet confirmed that water quality tests performed on October 7 necessitated the cancellation of the event, which was expected to draw more than 200 competitors to the Maine-et-Loire region.
Health risks at Lac du Verdon
The decision to halt the competition followed water sampling results that indicated an unsafe concentration of cyanobacteria, according to reports from local regional media. The presence of these bacteria rendered the venue unsuitable for the scheduled racing activities, forcing organizers to prioritize the safety of the participants over the continuity of the regional championship.
Event schedule and location details
The competition was slated to be the highlight of a weekend dedicated to paddle sports in the region. According to the Comité Régional de Canoë-Kayak des Pays de la Loire (CRPLCK), the weekend was structured to include a regional selection event on Saturday, October 10, followed by the championship on Sunday, October 11. While the event was administratively recorded as taking place in Maulévrier, the physical competition site was designated at the Barrage de Ribou, which feeds into the broader Lac du Verdon water system. The cancellation affects the entire weekend program, as the water quality concerns apply to the broader competition area.
Uncertainty regarding future scheduling
As of this time, the organizers have not announced a secondary date to hold the championship. The Club olympique canoë-kayak (COCK) has provided no further information regarding a potential rescheduling or alternative venue for the regional titles.
Regional context for paddle sports
The Comité Régional de Canoë-Kayak des Pays de la Loire has maintained an active calendar throughout 2026, including various slalom selections, descent training sessions, and educational webinars on sustainable equipment management. However, the specific environmental conditions at the Cholet site have interrupted the planned progression of the regional racing circuit.
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