Endurance, Community and Championship Spirit Shine at Lake Samsonvale.
The 2026 Paddle Queensland Marathon Championships once again showcased everything that makes marathon paddling special, as athletes from across Queensland and beyond gathered at the Lake Samsonvale Water Sports Association for a day of endurance, determination and camaraderie.
Across three blocks of competition, paddlers tackled races ranging from 3km through to 18km in kayaks, canoes, skis and stand up paddleboard events. From the opening general singles through to the technical portage races and exciting doubles competition, every race highlighted the resilience, racecraft and sportsmanship that define marathon paddling. The championships provided something for everyone, whether chasing a state title, preparing for world championship competition or simply enjoying the challenge of racing alongside fellow paddlers.
The event attracted 87 competitors, reflecting the continued growth and diversity of marathon paddling in Queensland. Paddlers travelled from throughout the state, with strong representation from the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Brisbane, Moreton Bay and Redlands regions, while welcoming visitors from New South Wales, Victoria and New Zealand. More than twenty clubs were represented, highlighting the strength of the paddling community and the friendships that continue to bring competitors together year after year.
Leading the club representation was Currumbin Creek Paddlers Club, followed by Sunshine Coast Paddlesports Club and Wynnum Redlands Canoe Club, while BrisSUP, Kawana Waters Canoe Club, Greater Logan Paddlers Club and many other clubs contributed to a vibrant and competitive championship field. The variety of clubs, craft and age groups on the water demonstrated the inclusive nature of marathon paddling, where juniors raced alongside experienced masters and first-time competitors shared the course with seasoned state and national representatives.
Throughout the day, the racing was fiercely contested yet always respectful. The general marathon races rewarded endurance and tactical decision-making, while the portage events challenged paddlers to combine efficient transitions with sustained speed. Team events added another dimension to the championships, with doubles crews demonstrating impressive teamwork and communication over the longer distances. Stand up paddleboard competitors also continued to strengthen the championships, reinforcing the growing diversity of Queensland’s paddlesports community.
Beyond the results, the championships were a celebration of the people who make the sport possible. Every athlete who stood on the start line, every volunteer who gave their time, every official, coach and family member contributed to an event that embodied the values of Paddle Queensland—participation, excellence, respect and community.
Paddle Queensland extends its sincere thanks to the Lake Samsonvale Water Sports Association for once again providing one of Australia’s premier marathon venues, the City of Moreton Bay for its ongoing support of paddlesports and Zhik for its continued partnership with Paddle Queensland. We also acknowledge Race Director Peter Winton, the officials, safety crews, volunteers and supporters whose professionalism and commitment ensured the championships were delivered safely and successfully.
Congratulations to all of our 2026 State Champions, placegetters and every paddler who accepted the challenge. Whether you stood on the podium or crossed the finish line with a personal best, your efforts helped make the 2026 Paddle Queensland Marathon Championships another memorable celebration of endurance paddling.
Complete results from each race block are available on Webscorer:
We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year as we continue to grow marathon paddling across Queensland, one stroke at a time.