Image: Stanislava Smieskova / Provided / 16-year-old Michal Smiesko has recently tackled the waters of France in the most recent ICF Canoe Slalom World Championship from July 8 to 13.

By Alyssa Conti

LOCAL KAYAK ATHLETE

Chilliwack canoe slalom athlete competes in Junior World Championships in France

Aug 4, 2025 | 2:24 PM

CHILLIWACK — Chilliwack’s own Michal Smiesko has recently ventured out to international waters in France over the past month.

The 16-year-old competed in the International Canoe Federation’s (ICF) Junior Canoe Slalom World Championships from July 8 to 13.

Smiesko managed to race up to the kayak junior semifinals, where he finished in 15th place.

“He was the fastest and highest-ranked Canadian under 18 years old across all individual events,” said Stanislava Smieskova, his mom and coach.

“He also raced in the Team event, where all three of the Canadian boats team up to paddle the course together.”

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Smiesko (centre) with Gevaert and Parry. Source: Stanislava Smiesko / Provided

Daniel Parry, Tyler Gevaert and Smiesko’s team came in fifth overall.

The young paddler’s journey doesn’t end here, though– Smiesko will be aiming for the ICF competitions in Ontario this weekend, from August 8 to 10. After that, he’ll be going to the National Whitewater Championships in Jonquiere, Quebec.