- Brenta Rodeo -
Max Benetton Trophy, Valstagna, Italy

On the 26th and 27th of August, Italian freestyle kayakers came together again after 20 years without a freestyle competition in their homeland. The Brenta Rodeo was held in Valstagna, a picturesque village in the North-East of Italy, usually known for its slalom course. During this event, paddlers engaged in clinics on both flatwater and the main hole, aimed at introducing them to freestyle kayaking. Over 50 kayakers refined their roll, learned how to double pump and side surfed the hole for the first time – all under a blazing sun but in a refreshing river. The progression was fantastic, from juniors catching their first wave to masters throwing endless cartwheels in their old school boats. Everyone showed what they learned at the end of the event during a fun Jam Session: paddle spins, impromptu air guitar, shudder rudder and big loops were thrown. The atmosphere was incredible, with everyone cheering each other up and persistent smiles lighting up people’s faces; this event can only grow bigger and help push forward freestyle kayaking in Italy. The Brenta Rodeo was dedicated to the legendary Max Benetton, who recently lost his life to the river. A beautiful wooden trophy to honour his name was assigned to Silvio Lorenzon, who embodied perfectly Max’s spirit: cheer each other on, push yourself and have fun.

Words: Lucien Schreiber | Photography: Claudio Collareda

Published in Kayak Session Magazine #88 (Winter 2023)