Since 2007, Devils Extreme Race has grown from an inspiring local event into a cornerstone of the extreme kayaking world. Over the years, it has hosted crazy Boater X, European Championships and Finals, attracting elite paddlers from across the globe.
From 21–24 August 2025 the legendary Devils Race, on the Vltava River, hosted the Extreme Kayak World Championship. On Friday, the qualification stage was set. Over 120 athletes from 25 countries took to the start ramp. Firing their way down this 20ft slide into the beginning of the 4 minute race, which includes the infamous ‘Window’ rapid. From here, only the fastest racers progress. Further downstream, once completing the qualifying race run, is the section which hold the finals. The Staircase is made up of a series of waves and a few ledge boofs. Final practicing is underway before the Friday night party.
Saturday is upon us with the finals day of the World Championships beginning with the semi finals and super finals. The juniors, masters, women’s and men’s categories all lay down 1 run in a bid for fastest times. The top 5 athletes from junior, master and women’s survive for finals with top 15 men’s also making way for a box office showdown. Unfortunately, this is where the road ended for team paddlers Flurina Fisher and Lyndon Williams, with Flurina in 9th and Lyndon in 19th.
The finals were unbelievably tight and thrilling to watch. You will find a full list of results here: https://www.devilsextremerace.com/en/vysledky
Not only did the organisers Míra and Pavlina host extreme kayaking’s greatest prize, they did it along side a full-blown river festival packed with live music from acts like Eddy Allen, Klacci z lesa, Lovesong Orchestra, Discoballs, and Move Breakers. Late-night fun including DJs, arm-wrestling contests, raffles, prize ceremonies, and a buzzing expo zone showcasing the latest in kayak gear. Complete with a camping village near the river. The main thing that allows this event to stand separately from others is the Hell Train. At the event is a train station. After you complete you run and first thing in the morning, you simply jump on the train with you kayak and kit and go again.
The Devils Extreme Kayak World Championship 2025 was a masterclass in adrenaline and hometown cheers. My highlight in the crowd were the Italians, wearing pink wigs and buzzing a chainsaw MTB style. Encouraging epic river racing, camping under the stars, and a celebration of this wonderful community. Whether you were competition-driven or the festival lover, this Czech river spectacle delivered. It’s where champions were crowned and memories were made.