Competitors ranging in age from 12 to 75 set off together from Baldersnäs early in the morning on 14 August to tackle the looping course, through a series of connected lakes and waterways within the picturesque forested area, before finishing at Bengtsfors. The annual event is one of Europe's largest canoe races and attracts a mix of elite and amateur paddlers. They compete in different classes with the fastest generally clocking times of four hours, and the slowest crossing the line in about 12 hours. Children cover a distance of 20.7km (12.8 miles).
The unspoilt landscape of Dalsland provides a stunning setting for the race and competitors are energised by enthusiastic support from followers along the way. The event, which was first held in 2004, helps to promote tourism in Dalsland as well as providing canoeists with a memorable challenge. In Bengtsfors, the harbour area offers something for the whole family including zip-lines, bouncy castles and pony rides, while the wider Dalsland region offers plenty of opportunities for walking and hiking, wildlife watching, fishing and adventure activities, not to mention canoeing and kayaking at a more sedate pace.
A canoe and sports fair, enabling canoeists to check out the latest equipment and gear, is held in connection with the marathon and there are plans to develop the Dalsland Canoe Marathon further. These include additional races and the creation of a Canoe Week filled with races, seminars and lectures leading up the marathon.
Dalsland is located about two hours north of Gothenburg, Sweden's clean, green west coast city and the gateway to West Sweden.
For more information about the Dalsland Canoe Marathon go to www.kanotmaraton.se and for more information about visiting West Sweden go to www.westsweden.com
Press: For more information contact Ann-Charlotte Carlsson at the West Sweden Tourist Board on +46 (0) 730 21 21 14 (www.ann-charlotte.carlsson@vastsverige.com).