Distances raced are 200m, 500m and 1000m, 6,000m and 10,000m. The racing kayaks and canoes have to conform to international standards and specifications. Racing takes place in singles, doubles and fours in both canoe and kayak classes. National Racing is based around five regattas at the National Water Sports Centre, at Nottingham, with an interclub championship and age group national championships being included. Regional regattas run at various sites around the country during the season.
Most paddlers enter racing through a club.
These classes are graded according to ability. The Great Britain Olympic Racing Squad selects elite paddlers for training, in junior men, junior ladies, senior men and senior ladies classes. Teams are sent to International regattas at junior and senior level, and to junior and senior World Championships and the Olympics. There is a Junior Development system in operation to introduce junior paddlers to the squad system, encourage crew boat racing, and provide opportunities for racing at a level of competition below full international teams. Full details of how to register as a competitor and take part in the BCU National regattas at the Watersports Centre are to be found in the Racing Handbook.