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On Paddle Australia’s night of nights, Graeme Caudry was awarded the ‘Technical Official of the Year’ for his long standing efforts and hard work in providing quality adjudication at domestic and international levels, including during Paris 2024.
First involved in paddling as a teenager himself, Caudry started his journey supporting Canoe Slalom as a volunteer when his son Nick began competing.
However, his personal highlight of his time involved in paddling happened more recently at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
“Judging at the Olympics in Tokyo and more recently in Paris has been a highlight,” Caudry said.
“What a privilege to have an uninterrupted view of the four Australian gold medal runs and their presentation ceremonies.
“That is something you could only dream about and it was an amazing experience.”
Paddling is known for its incredible community, and Graeme has had the opportunity to experience its influence first hand.
“The Victorian paddling community has been very strong and I was very active when my son Nick was paddling,” he said.
“Being part of the founding group in 2001, and the initial President of the Melbourne Canoe Club (MCC) which has been supporting the development of canoe slalom in Victoria, was a great time to look back on.
“Watching Tristan Carter and Tim Anderson represent MCC and Australia in Paris shows the results of the hard work put in by many volunteers.”
After many years involved in paddling, being awarded the 2024 Technical Official of the Year is something Graeme is very proud to have accomplished.
“I am honoured to receive the award as there are so many dedicated and talented technical officials,” Caudry said.
“I am in the twilight of my judging and will finish after we host the World Championships in Penrith next year.
“It has been wonderful supporting Canoe Slalom in Australia but also judging all over the world, seeing many places and meeting so many wonderful people.”
Having first been involved in the sport himself recreationally, and then drawn back in through his son’s competitive involvement, the sport is truly one with opportunities available to all.
“It is a wonderful sport for teenagers or older, or for parents to get involved with your children and their pursuits, whatever they are, it is so important,” he said.
“It helps keep you connected and importantly part of their world.
“If you are like me, and you can stay involved long after your kids are finished, and get to judge overseas and enjoy the sport at the highest level.”
Are you interested in being a volunteer at the 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in Penrith, Sydney? Sign up today at www.paddle25.org.au to register your interest in being part of the event.