Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge
Krakow 13-15 June 2025
Hosted by Politechnika Krakowska im. Tadeusza Kościuszki, Krakow, Poland
About the Challenge
Imagine turning solid concrete into a streamlined, floating canoe - and then racing it! The Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge is an unique, adrenaline-filled competition where students push the boundaries of concrete constructions. This is a space for designers, engineers, and innovators to show what concrete can really do.
June 13-15, 2025, student teams will gather in Krakow, Poland, to showcase their skills. It's not just a race; it's a proof of creativity, engineering, and teamwork. Whether you're a concrete enthusiast or a student eager to take on an epic challenge, this event is for you!
Official Event Photos
Winners of:
Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge
Finals - Men's Double - Race
| Lane | Teams | University | Nationality | Time [min] |
| 1 | #8 - Odra I | Opole University of Technology | POLAND | 1:29.4 |
| 2 | #12 - Rebar Rebels HM | Hochschule München (III place) | GERMANY | 1:25.5 |
| 3 | #2 - PKanoe Black Stork | Cracow University of Technology (I place) | POLAND | 1:08.6 |
| 4 | #10 - SZEnavis | Széchenyi István University (II place) | HUNGARY | 1:18.9 |
Finals - Women's Double - Race
| Lane | Teams | University | Nationality | Time [min] |
| 1 | #9 - Odra II | Opole University of Technology (II place) | POLAND | 1:56.0 |
| 2 | #10 - SZEnavis | Széchenyi István University (II place) | HUNGARY | 1:56.0 |
| 3 | #8 - Odra I | Opole University of Technology | POLAND | 1:56.9 |
| 4 | #6 - Betonimus Prime | University of Applied Sciences Erfurt (I place) | GERMANY | 1:46.5 |
Finals - Mixed Double - Race
| Lane | Teams | University | Nationality | Time [min] |
| 1 | #5 - FHEnomenal | University of Applied Sciences Erfurt | GERMANY | 1:42.2 |
| 2 | #6 - Betonimus Prime | University of Applied Sciences Erfurt (II place) | GERMANY | 1:27.5 |
| 3 | #18 - West Pomeranian Viking | West Pomeranian University of Technology (III place) | POLAND | 1:41.9 |
| 4 | #12 - Rebar Rebels HM | Hochschule München (I place) | GERMANY | 1:24.9 |
Technical and Special Awards – recognizing diverse aspects of the projects:
Sustainability and Recycling Award – Heidelberg Materials Award - goes to Poznań University of Technology – canoe “Betonick” for outstanding achievement in sustainable innovation and environmental responsibility. This award honours a concrete canoe designed with a strong commitment to recycling, eco-friendly construction, and carbon footprint reduction.
Aesthetics of Workmanship & Presentation on the Water Award - Hochschule Erfurt – canoe “Betonimus Prime” A canoe that impressed not only with its speed but also with its exceptional craftsmanship and elegant appearance on the water.
Innovation in Material and Technology - ATLAS Award - Hochschule München – canoe “Rebar Rebels” For bold and creative solutions, including the application of sprayed-concrete technology. Their work demonstrates remarkable technical skill and paves the way for future advancements in sustainable and efficient design.
Lightest Boat Award - "ODRA" from Opole University of Technology - has defied expectations, proving that concrete can not only float but do so with remarkable efficiency. Their dedication, ingenuity, and relentless pursuit of excellence have resulted in the lightest canoe constructed.
“Ooops! Award” HAN University of Applied Sciences – canoe “The Sinking Dutchman” Because science is also about fun, taking risks, and learning from unexpected outcomes.
Fair Play Award - West Pomeranian University of Technology - in recognition of their exceptional sportsmanship and academic solidarity, demonstrated by lending their canoe to the team from Sakarya University (Turkey), enabling their participation in the competition. A truly admirable act that embodies the spirit of collaboration in our engineering community.
Poseł w Drodze Sakarya University Turkey - Special Award of Cracow University of Technology Rector Prof. Andrzej Szarata and Team Presentation Award. This award recognises a team that has demonstrated outstanding creativity and unity through their branding, from logos and t-shirts to the impressive demonstration stand. Their dedication to a strong visual identity reflects their passion, professionalism, and commitment to their project.
Official Schedule
Why Participate?
Experience Krakow's Student Life: Known for its rich culture and innovation, Krakow is the perfect backdrop for this exciting event - Krakow
Push the Limits of Concrete: This is your chance to redefine what's possible with one of the world's most versatile materials - Concrete
Compete on an International Stage: Go head-to-head with talented student teams - Canoe Challenge
Event Highlights
Race Day: Watch as custom-designed concrete canoes race across the water, proving that concrete can float—and even race with the right engineering!
Networking Opportunities: Connect with other students, industry experts, and educators who share your passion for concrete engineering and innovation.
80th Anniversary of Politechnika Krakowska: Join us as we celebrate 80 years of excellence in technology and engineering.
Who Can Join?
The challenge is open to student teams with a passion for design, engineering, and a love for competition. Whether you're an engineering major or just love a creative challenge, you're invited to participate! Each canoe can have one men’s team, one women’s team, and one mixed team. Canoes are for two paddlers using a single-blade paddle. For teams competing in the Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge, the construction of each canoe must meet specific requirements (see Rules, Registration, and What to Expect!)
Registration Fee:
March 30, 2025 – EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION - register before 30 March and recieve discount -20%
By April 30, 2025, institutions must finalize their entry by paying a 650 PLN (150 EUR) per canoe fee and 40 PLN (10 EUR) per participant. The participation fee covers campsite access (tents are not provided) and venue services (from Thursday afternoon), a welcome event on Friday, Saturday breakfast, lunch, and an evening event. All participants will be provided with wristbands ensuring access to all competition areas.
A refundable cleaning deposit of 50 EUR (or 200 PLN) per team is required to maintain the site’s cleanliness. The cleaning deposit is paid in cash at the registration. As long as teams tidy up their campsite before leaving, they’ll get this deposit back.
Hotel rooms are available in the Kolna Sport Centre upon your own individual reservation. Hotel booking This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., mention Krakow CCChallenge event.
Event Schedule and Important Dates
January 15, 2025 - Pre-registration deadline (Intention to participate).
NEW! March 30, 2025 – EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION - register before 30 March and receive discount -20%
STEP 1 Complete the form, provide invoice details
STEP 2 The payment details and account number will be sent by email
STEP 3 The invoice will be issued and sent to you
April 30, 2025 - Final registration deadline. Submission of the participation fee and team details (canoe name, captain, team members etc)
June 1, 2025 - Technical report submission deadline to the Technical Jury. The report (5 pages English) should include concrete technology, design, dimensions, and the sustainability aspect.
June 13, 2025 - The competition venue opens at 12:00 PM. The welcome event and briefing on race details will be held in the evening. Participation of the Captain and two teammates
June 14, 2025 - Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge #ReadyToRace?
June 15, 2025 - The event concludes by 2:00 PM.
Location
Kolna Sports Center in Kraków is a premier facility for kayaking and canoeing, renowned for its state-of-the-art infrastructure and extensive experience in hosting international competitions.
Kolna has a distinguished history of organizing high-profile events, demonstrating its capability to manage complex kayaking competitions: European Canoe Slalom Championships: 2008 and 2013 and ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup: Held from June, 2024. These events underscore Kolna's proficiency in organizing competitions that meet international standards. This time, Kolna will foster a special event, the Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge. Infrastructure: Kolna's facilities are designed to support training and competitive events. The centre offers a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, gymnasium, etc. An on-site hotel provides convenient lodging for athletes and officials. Hotel booking This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., mention Krakow CCChallenge event.
Sports Center Kolna, Kolna 2, 30-381 Krakow, Poland
Locate on the map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/AJ1kTCfja98oQVdQ6
Rules, Registration, and What to Expect!
Click image for pdf.
Partners
The event is organized under the patronage of Prof. Dr. Hab. inż. Andrzej Szarata Rector of the Politechnika Krakowska im.Tadeusza Kościuszki
Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge is organized as a part of 80th anniversary of Politechnika Krakowska www.pk.edu.pl
Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge
GOLD PARTNER
GOLD PARTNER Heidelberg Materials is one of the world's largest producers of building materials. In Poland, it is the leader in the cement market and one of the largest producers of ready-mix concrete and aggregates, including aggregates from recycled concrete. Their products construct houses, communication routes, and commercial and industrial facilities. www.heidelbergmaterials.pl
GOLD PARTNER ATLAS is currently the largest manufacturer of construction chemicals in Poland, the undisputed leader on the Polish market. The company's offer includes a comprehensive range of construction products that allow for the construction or renovation of residential buildings, public utility buildings and industrial facilities. With over 30 years of experience in the design, production and application of its products, ATLAS can now offer building materials that ensure the highest quality, durability and safety.
Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge Partners
The Association of Ready-Mixed Concrete Producers in Poland is an organization that brings together producers of ready-mixed concrete and companies related to the industry in terms of raw materials, technology and technical aspects.SPBT brings together people and organizations related to ready-mixed concrete, activating and contributing to the progress of Polish standardization, certification and legislation in the field of ready-mixed concrete. The institution supports the industry environment in the development and improvement of the quality of goods and services and helps with formal issues, such as adapting EU regulations to national specifics https://spbt.pl/
CEMEX Polska is one of the leading producers of building materials, offering a wide range of products, including Portland cement, ready-mix concrete, and aggregates. The company emphasises the quality of its products and innovation, delivering solutions tailored to the needs of various construction sectors. CEMEX is also committed to sustainable development and social responsibility, implementing projects aimed at environmental protection and supporting local communities. One example is the production of low-emission Vertua concrete and cement, which helps reduce CO₂ emissions in the construction industry https://www.cemex.pl/
FutureLab is an inter-faculty unit of the Krakow University of Technology, established in 2019 with creative and ambitious students of the University in mind. Young scientists receive comprehensive support in implementing their projects under the scientific supervision of the PK staff https://futurelab.pk.edu.pl/
A family company that has been producing kayaks and canoes since 1983, with experience in this field, uses the latest material technologies. All designs of kayak models have been developed in the company. Producer of the best amateur kayaking in Poland. This category of kayaks was created during the evolution of this equipment tested by members of the sports family of Polaczyk. Family tradition and market demand for high-quality equipment determined the decision to produce the highest-quality kayaks. https://www.polaczyk.eu/
Master Builders Solutions is a leading global manufacturer of concrete admixtures, as well as other solutions for concrete construction, focussed on delivering its vision: Inspiring people to build better. Master Builders Solutions provides value-added technology and market-leading R&D capabilities to improve the performance of construction materials and to enable the reduction of CO2 emissions in the production of concrete. Founded in 1909, Master Builders Solutions has ca. 1700 employees operating 38 production sites globally, supporting their customers in mastering their building challenges of today – for a decarbonised future. In Poland we have production site in Myslenice/Krakow. Check our webside: https://master-builders-solutions.com/pl-pl/
NDI is a Polish general contractor with extensive experience in the construction industry, operating across various sectors including building and infrastructure projects. The company prides itself on the expertise of its engineers and is known for undertaking complex and prestigious projects such as the Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre and the Vistula Spit Canal. NDI accentuate high-quality execution, flexibility in operations, and collaboration with trusted subcontractors. Their portfolio includes a wide range of specialisations, from hydrotechnical structures and public utility buildings to road, rail, and energy infrastructure. Committed to safety and quality standards, NDI is a signatory of the Agreement for Safety in Construction, aiming to minimise risks on Polish construction sites. The company's headquarters are located in Sopot, with additional offices in Warsaw, Katowice, and Kraków.
Soley Sp. z o.o. is a Polish company established in 1990, specializing in geotechnics, hydrotechnics, and underwater works. Initially, it focused on underwater construction and sealing injections, but over time it expanded into micropiles, anchors, CFA piles, jet grouting, and DSM columns. The company developed its own technologies, like DFF piles, tailored for the tough geological conditions of the Carpathian flysch. Soley collaborates with research institutions on innovative projects, including DLM and ESS technologies. In 2020, it adopted the ISO 45001:2018 system for occupational health and safety management. Its achievements have been recognized with awards, such as the TYTAN 2021 for Project/Realization of the Year.
Contact
Whether you're looking to showcase your skills, connect with other students, or simply experience the thrill of concrete canoe racing, the Krakow Concrete Canoe Challenge is the place to be. Ready to take on the challenge? Grab your teammates, start designing, and we'll see you in Krakow!
Will your team take the title? There's only one way to find out—sign up now!
Contact Us
For inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, or more details, please get in touch with us at:
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: canoe.pk.edu.pl
INSTAGRAM: krakowccchallenge
