Canoers, kayakers to compete in Gainesville for spot in the Olympics

Athletes from around the country will descend on Gainesville next weekend as they compete for a spot on the U.S. Sprint Canoe and Kayak National Team during trials at the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue.
 
The trials will last Friday and Saturday, said Venue Manager Morgan House.
 
"If you're an American kayaker, you have to go to that one to qualify for the Pan-American Championship, to then qualify for the Olympics," House said.
 
The main reason Gainesville is hosting the trials is due to the Pan-American Championship in May.
 
"That's the race course people will be qualifying for the Olympics. So it makes sense to have the national team selection trials on the same course as that race, which is a couple of weeks later."
 
The trials are open to the public. House said Saturday is the more exciting race day, with 200 meter races and closer, tighter finishes.
 
The races Saturday begin at 8:00 and will likely last until midafternoon.
 
Seven members of the Lanier Canoe and Kayak Team will be competing in the trials as well.