What gets a paddler disqualified from a run?
A · Advanced · The competition · 1 of 2Racing in a boat or with kit that breaks the rules, taking outside help, not being ready to start through the paddler's own fault and ignoring the start instructions. Outside help includes being handed a paddle and being given directions by radio. A paddler who is caught by the next boat must give way when a judge whistles.
How it works
- Kit: an athlete who competes "in a boat or with equipment, which does not conform to the rules" is disqualified for that run.
- Outside assistance: an athlete who accepts it is disqualified for that run.
- What counts: "Any aid given to an athlete or to their boat"; giving, passing or throwing a spare paddle or the lost one; anyone else directing, pushing or moving the boat; directions by radio or loudspeaker.
- Late: an athlete not ready to start as scheduled may be disqualified for that run if the chief judge finds negligence.
- Start instructions: not following the start procedure brings disqualification.
- Being overtaken: the overtaken athlete "must give way if a Judge gives repeated blasts on a whistle".
- The overtaker: must be trying to take the course properly. A boat that catches up because it missed gates must not get in the way.
- Hindered: an athlete who is hindered by another may repeat the run if the chief judge allows.
- Serious misconduct: the rules also provide for disqualification from the whole competition for serious unsportsmanlike behaviour.
The glossary has outside assistance and clearing the course.
Tricky cases
A paddler drops the paddle and a spectator throws it back. Is the run disqualified?
Yes, if the paddler accepts it. Passing or throwing a lost paddle to an athlete is outside assistance.
Can a coach shout from the bank?
It depends on how. The list names directions "by means of electroacoustic apparatus or radio-telephone". The rules read for this page do not mention an unaided voice.
A slower paddler does not move over and spoils the next boat's run. What can be done?
The hindered athlete may be given a re-run by the chief judge.
Does disqualification for a run end the paddler's competition?
No. DSQ covers that run only. Disqualification for the whole competition is the separate code DQB.
Why the rule exists
Slalom is one paddler against one course. Help from the bank, whether a paddle or a shouted line through the next gate, would make it something else. The whistle rule deals with the one way boats can meet: the next starter catching a paddler who is in trouble.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| ICF rules | As above | SL 10.14; SL 10.16 |
| Team runs | Team-mates may help each other to roll | SL 10.15.4 |
| Kayak cross | Boat to boat contact is allowed, within safety rules | SL 16.23 |
From the rule book
International Canoe Federation, Canoe Slalom Competition Rules 2025, Articles 1.12, 10.14, 10.16.1 to 10.16.7 and 10.17.3. Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: ICF Canoe Slalom Competition Rules (PDF).