Fish River Canoe Marathon 2026 Cancelled Due to Foot and Mouth Disease in Eastern Cape
- The Fish River Canoe Marathon organising committee cancelled the 2026 edition, which was scheduled for 2 to 3 October in Cradock
- The decision followed consultations with the Fish River Farmers Association and the local farming community over FMD concerns in the region
- All paddlers who had already entered the race will receive full refunds through the Paddlesport South Africa entry portal
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The Fish River Canoe Marathon will not take place in 2026 after the race committee officially cancelled the event, citing the ongoing Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak affecting the Eastern Cape.
The race, which had been scheduled for 2 to 3 October in Cradock, was called off following a joint decision by the Fish River Canoe Marathon Race Committee in consultation with the Fish River Farmers Association, local community members, and the broader farming community in the area.
Why the 2026 Race Was Called Off
Organisers said the cancellation reflected concern about the potential impact a large-scale event could have on an agricultural region already under strain from FMD. The committee stressed that the announcement was made as early as possible to allow paddlers, support teams, accommodation providers, and other affected parties sufficient time to adjust their plans.
Refunds and the Road Ahead
Paddlers who completed their entries will receive full refunds processed directly through the Paddlesport South Africa entry portal. The race organisers said they would assist in resolving any complications that arise during the refund process.
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The organising committee extended its appreciation to the paddling community for its understanding, and to the local community for contributing openly to the decision-making process.
Despite the cancellation, the race committee confirmed its commitment to staging the Fish River Canoe Marathon in 2027.
Source: Briefly News
