Region: East
Type: Regional
Format: Sprint

Distance: ~120m
River Grade & Hazards: Grade 2 artificial white water course featuring Rapid Bloc obstacles, waves, and moving water. Hanging slalom gates will be in place. The course finishes with a 1.7m drop near the finish.
Suitable for Novice: Yes
Safety Cover: Yes
Safety Officer: Rick Moore
Start: Starting Pool – Viking Kayak Club, Priory Country Park, Cardington, Bedford (MK44 3JZ)
Finish: Footbridge – Viking Kayak Club, Priory Country Park, Cardington, Bedford (MK44 3JZ)
Race Start: 17:00
Check-in Time: 13:00
Briefing Time: 16:45
Additional Info: The Cardington Wavehopper Race is part of a full weekend of paddlesport, alongside the Cardington Division 2, 3 & 4 Canoe Slalom hosted by Viking Kayak Club.

This short-format sprint race is designed as an accessible entry point into Wildwater Racing — ideal for paddlers of all abilities, from first-timers to experienced racers.

No specialist equipment is required. Paddlers are welcome to use their own boat (Wavehopper, slalom kayak, or general purpose craft), and a range of boats will also be available to use on the day.

Whether you’re looking to try something new, build confidence on moving water, or gain racing experience — this is a great opportunity to get involved and see what Wildwater Racing is all about.
Fees: Senior £7 U18 £7
Entries On The Day: Entries accepted on the day by cash or card

Single Event Membership: Yes, Single Event Membership entry is accepted
Payment Details: Entry Fee: £7 per paddler
Discounted Entry: £5 for paddlers pre-entered in the Cardington Division 2, 3, or 4 Slalom (can be arranged on the day)

– On-the-day payment accepted (cash or card)
– Early entry encouraged to support event planning
– Please note: this entry is for the Wavehopper Wildwater Race only

Slalom entries must be made separately via the Canoe Slalom website:http://www.canoeslalom.co.uk
Online Entries Close: 19/06/2026 23:00