News

Before the competition officially gets underway, Paddle Europe is putting development at the heart of its activities, with a dedicated Development Camp bringing together eight young athletes for a unique sporting and personal experience in Scotland.

Under the guidance of coach Alex Sheppy, the group has settled close to the competition venue, where the coming days will combine Wildwater training, technical preparation and a series of educational and social activities.

The Paddle Europe Development Camp is also being joined by a Paddle UK training camp involving four additional athletes, creating an even stronger environment for cooperation, learning and exchange between young paddlers.

More than training

Grandtully provides a particularly fitting setting for the initiative. Surrounded by the Scottish countryside, the athletes are staying in a camping environment close to the river, creating a relaxed and friendly atmosphere where sport, nature and team spirit come together.

While preparation for the upcoming European Championships remains the main focus, the programme has been designed to offer much more than time on the water.

Over the next few days, the athletes will take part in different training sessions and preparation activities, alongside practical workshops and social experiences. These will include showcases on boat repair and maintenance, recreational visits and group activities aimed at giving the participants an experience that extends beyond competition itself.

The camp offers the young athletes an opportunity not only to improve their skills, but also to spend time together, share experiences and become part of the wider European paddling community.

Joining the European Championships atmosphere

The Development Camp participants will also be part of the official opening of the Championships, joining athletes and delegations arriving in Grandtully from across Europe.

The Opening Ceremony will take place on Tuesday, 11 August, at 18:00, bringing everyone together on the eve of the first competition day.

From there, attention will turn fully towards the river as Europe’s leading Junior and Under 23 Wildwater athletes compete for continental titles between 12 and 15 August.

For the athletes taking part in the Development Camp, however, the experience has already started — with training, learning, new friendships and the opportunity to experience an international championship environment from the inside.

A special week of Wildwater paddling is beginning in Grandtully, combining development, competition and the spirit of a young European paddling community.

Stay tuned to Paddle Europe channels over the coming days as we bring you closer to the Development Camp and all the action from the 2026 Paddle Europe Junior and Under 23 Wildwater Championships in Scotland.