The IRF, and indeed the entire rafting world, has been deeply saddened by the passing of Rafael Gallo, Honorary President of the IRF. The outpouring of messages has been huge and an indication of the respect that so many held for Rafa. A true show of the vast number of people from all round the world whose lives he touched with his positive energy.

From the forefront of rafting to a global leader in conservation strategies and engagements, Rafa’s life achievements will not be forgotten.

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On April6 we will once again celebrate the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP) with the #WhiteCard campaign. Established by the United Nations General Assembly and the International Olympic Committee, April6 recognises the role that sport plays in society and its power to foster dialogue, understanding, social inclusion and peace.

This year, as we are all still facing an unprecedented situation, April6 provides the opportunity to highlight the unique power of sport in supporting people and communities to overcome the challenges imposed by the pandemic.

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Can travel for rafting be considered eco, responsible or sustainable raft tourism? By its very nature, rafting involves travel. In the traditional sense, rafting involves lashing logs together and poling or paddling on water. Human powered transportation of goods or people assisted by water flow from one point to another. Today rafting is more commonly an adventure activity and sport. One which is rarely on the immediate doorstep of anyone going rafting.

Many of the world’s popular rafting destinations are in mountainous climates with limited resources and transport networks.

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The IRF recognises the need to make raft racing available to as wide a number of people as possible. As such, the IRF is delighted to announce that after many months of intensive work, it has fulfilled its commitment to launch a comprehensive, safe and internationally supported Para Rafting program.

A Para Rafting Committee was appointed in October 2020 to direct and approve the process of finalising the Rules, Codes and Classification Systems for Para Rafting.

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After the hugely successful World Virtual Youth Festival, UTS and the IRF are inviting rafting youth to get active, get creative, and use social media pro-actively in the “What’s your daily?” challenge. At a time where the corona virus pandemic still affects daily life, youth all around the globe have been affected by this pandemic with greater physical isolation, restrictions, anxiety and mental health challenges coupled with less accessibility to engage in sports.

What is the “What’s your daily?

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