This GA city is now the freestyle kayaking capital of the US. Here’s what that means for you

Thanks to the thriving whitewater scene along the river, Columbus has been named Freestyle Kayaking Capital of the United States by the International Canoe Federation (ICF).

The announcement came during a July 30, 2025 press conference in Columbus on the banks of the Chattahoochee River whitewater course. Mayor Skip Henderson announced in an accompanying press release, that Columbus will also host the 2028 ICF Canoe Freestyle World Cup and the 2029 World Championship.

Since its inception in 2013, the Cutbait Rapids has become one of the largest Class V rapids on the East Coast and will now serve as a model for the ICF in developing a 10-year international kayaking competition circuit.

“Columbus continues to invest in the river and outdoor recreation because it enriches our community and supports economic growth,” Henderson said. He also promised that the Cup Championship would, “bring thousands of visitors to experience the best of Columbus.”

What does this mean for Columbus?

First, more visitors and the business they bring across hotels, restaurants and shops. According to Visit Columbus, over 50,000 people already come each year for our river sports.

Columbus is now the ICF’s very first Center of Excellence for Canoe Freestyle, which means it will become more and more attractive to tourists looking for a unique outdoor experience.

Ashley Woitena, President and CEO of Visit Columbus promises, “With our unmatched river access, supportive community, and year-round paddle sports opportunities, Columbus is the perfect home for the future of freestyle kayaking and other Canoe Freestyle events.”

What can we expect?

“Columbus offers the best freestyle waves in the world — it’s no surprise the athletes chose this city to host the next World Cup and World Championship competitions,” said Dan Gilbert, owner of Columbus’s Whitewater Express. “This community has earned the freestyle world’s respect — and their excitement to return says it all.”

In addition to the upcoming World Cup and World Championships, two new developments are underway:

• Infrastructure Upgrades: Columbus is investing $4 million in river infrastructure improvements that will enhance the whitewater kayaking experience for beginners and experts alike.
• Youth Training Program: As a Center of Excellence for Canoe Freestyle, Columbus will work with the ICF to develop training programs for the next generation of athletes 

Now that Columbus is a world renowned kayak destination, will you get involved? Email me at srose@ledger-enquirer.com or find me on social media.