The upcoming Easter weekend will see top-tier water sports return to HWC de Helmvaarders. From Saturday to Monday, the club is hosting the Helmond International Tournament (HIT), which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.
The HIT is recognised as the world’s largest annual international canoe polo tournament. More than 100 teams from across the globe will travel to Helmond to compete along the Kanaaldijk South-East. The organisers have expanded the event for this milestone edition. Niels Doensen of HWC de Helmvaarders noted that there are nine pitches and a record 112 teams arriving from all over Europe. The event’s international reach extends even further, with a referee travelling from Singapore to ensure the highest level of competition.
What began as a small event in 1996 has evolved into a major international competition over the past three decades. Volunteer Stef Lammers, who has been involved for more than 20 years, has watched this growth firsthand. He said it is remarkable how the tournament has become a world-class event while maintaining its original friendly atmosphere. According to Lammers, the success stems from a constant drive to improve the experience for teams travelling from afar.
To mark the 30th edition, the organisers have added several extra activities. These include a lottery with sports prizes and music bingo. A tenth pitch has also been set up specifically for the public. On this pitch, visitors can try the sport themselves under professional guidance.
The tournament is free for the public to attend throughout the Easter weekend at Kanaaldijk Zuid-Oost 50 in Helmond.
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