While the bustling city is renowned for its beaches, iconic landmarks and partying, when it comes to the Olympic paddling events, it’s certain to create waves as well.

As for the sprint events, athletes will enjoy one of the most majestic paddling venues in Olympic history. Rowing and sprint will be held in the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, in the heart of the city and at the foot of the iconic Corcovado Mountain. Athletes will compete under the gaze of Rio’s biggest icon, the statue of Christ the Redeemer.

One key feature of the course design will be the installation of a temporary pontoon with 10,000 seats, ensuring a great atmosphere at the finish line. This is also the traditional home of sprint paddling in Rio, and the proposed venue upgrade will leave a legacy that will better accommodate athlete training in the future. “The local clubs and National Federation that use the venue will benefit significantly from the enhancements,” says João Tomasini, president of the Brazilian Canoe Federation.

Other links:

• Hay, Rapido: The future home of the Rio 2016 whitewater course
• The London 2012 Olympic Games