When used in the context of Whitewater Rodeo, there is no difference. We need details so we can see it and get folks to ask for more. Most Whitewater Rodeos are held in natural settings that are not media friendly. Whenever events are held in accessible locations, we need to work together to insure maximum media coverage. Canoe and Kayak , Paddler, American Whitewater, Blue Ridge Outdoors, various newspapers and many sites on the World Wide Web report Whitewater Rodeo results.
Some regional differences do exist.
In western states, whitewater canoes are not the norm. It is easier to become reasonably proficient paddling a kayak than a canoe. As a result, there is a greater difference between the skill levels of expert and recreational canoeists than between similar populations of kayakers. The only way to gain proficiency in any sport is through perseverance. Those who seek the easy way never gain the experience necessary to truly paddle their own canoes.