International canoe races between Graubünden and Ticino: what you need to know

Context

In brief

• International canoe races between Graubünden and Ticino on 9 and 10 May 2026
• Over 110 athletes from 7 nations, including Australia
• Races valid as European Cup trials and Swiss absolute championship 2026

Key facts

• What: International canoe races
• When: Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May 2026
• Where: Moesa and Ticino rivers
• Who: Ticino Canoe Group
• Number: Over 110 athletes from 7 nations

Canoeing will take center stage between Graubünden and Ticino for a weekend of international races on the Moesa and Ticino rivers. On Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May 2026, the seventh edition of TicinoMoesa will be held, organized by the Ticino Canoe Group. This year, the races will also count as trials for the European Cup and as the Swiss absolute championship 2026.

Races and participants

The races will see the participation of more than 110 athletes representing seven nations, including distant Australia. However, the conditions of the Moesa and Ticino rivers could influence the race routes. After the 2024 edition, where the river conditions were optimal, this year the low-snow winter and the dry month of April have resulted in very low flows for early spring. Despite the recent rains, it is not yet certain that the Moesa will be navigable.

Race schedule

On Saturday at 11 a.m., the classic race will take place. If the flow of the Moesa is sufficient, the route will wind between Roveredo and Lumino. If it is necessary to move to the Ticino, paddling will take place between Castione and Bellinzona with arrival in the Torretta area. The race will also count as the Swiss absolute championship 2026. The award ceremony will take place from 6 p.m. at the Outdoor Festival Misoxperience village, followed by dinner for all participants.

Canoeing will also take center stage the next day on the Ticino, at the Molinazzo rapid, venue of the sprint race that will start at 9:30 a.m. A route of about 500 meters to tackle in two qualifying heats followed by the final trial reserved for the best in the race. A very wavy stretch where concentration, strength, and endurance are fundamental elements to tackle the trial to the best. The award ceremony is scheduled for 4 p.m. in front of the Ticino Canoe Group headquarters at the Molinazzo rapid in Bellinzona.

Useful information

All information about the races can be found on the website www.ticinomoesa.ch.

Operational details

Implications for cross-border workers

The international canoe races between Graubünden and Ticino represent a unique opportunity for cross-border workers who live and work in the region. Not only as spectators, but also as potential participants or volunteers. The event, in fact, requires the collaboration of many people to ensure the success of the races.

How to participate

If you are a canoe enthusiast and want to participate in the races, you need to register through the official website www.ticinomoesa.ch. Registrations are open to everyone, but it is important to respect the deadlines and specific requirements for each race category.

Volunteering

If you want to contribute as a volunteer, you can contact the Ticino Canoeists Group. Volunteering is an excellent way to integrate into the local community and experience the excitement of the races up close. Tasks can range from logistics management to safety, to supporting participants.

Where to stay

For cross-border workers who wish to participate in or attend the races, it is important to plan accommodation in advance. Bellinzona and the surrounding areas offer numerous options, from luxury hotels to budget apartments. It is advisable to book in advance, especially considering the influx of athletes and spectators from all over the world.

Transportation

The region is well connected thanks to the Swiss railway and road network. If you arrive by train, Bellinzona station is well connected to the main urban centers of Ticino and Switzerland. If you prefer to travel by car, there are numerous parking spaces available near the race areas.

What to bring

If you decide to attend as a spectator, it is important to bring comfortable clothing suitable for the weather conditions. Don't forget a bottle of water and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. If you are a participant, make sure you have all the necessary equipment and follow the safety rules.

Safety

Safety is an absolute priority for the organizers. During the races, there will be rescue teams ready to intervene if necessary. It is important to follow the instructions of the organizers and respect the delimited areas to ensure the safety of everyone.

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Key points

What to do if you want to participate

If you are interested in participating in the international canoe races between Graubünden and Ticino, here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Registration: Visit the site www.ticinomoesa.ch and complete the online registration. Make sure to respect the deadlines and specific requirements for your category. 2. Preparation: Train adequately and ensure you have all the necessary equipment. Participate in preparatory events organized by the Ticino Canoeists Group. 3. Travel: Plan your trip in advance. Book your train or bus ticket and check the parking options if you are traveling by car. 4. Accommodation: Book accommodation near the competition areas. Bellinzona offers numerous options, from luxury hotels to budget apartments. 5. Safety: Follow the instructions of the organizers and respect the delimited areas to ensure everyone's safety. 6. Fun: Enjoy the experience and excitement of the races. Share your moments on social media with the hashtag #TicinoMoesa2026.

What to do if you want to be a volunteer

If instead you want to contribute as a volunteer, here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Contact: Get in touch with the Ticino Canoeists Group through their official website or social media channels. 2. Training: Participate in the training sessions organized by the organizers. Learn the specific tasks and safety procedures. 3. Planning: Plan your trip and accommodation. Make sure you are available for the entire weekend of the races. 4. Support: During the races, you will be assigned a specific task. Follow the instructions of the organizers and be ready to support the participants and spectators. 5. Safety: Respect the safety procedures and follow the instructions of the organizers to ensure a safe and well-organized event. 6. Fun: Enjoy the experience of being part of an international event. Share your moments on social media with the hashtag #TicinoMoesa2026.

Useful Tools

To best plan your participation or support for the international canoe races between Graubünden and Ticino, you can use the following tools:

• Expense calculator: Use the expense calculator to estimate the costs of travel, accommodation, and necessary equipment.
• Transport map: Consult the transport map to plan your train or bus journey.
• Equipment guide: Read the equipment guide to ensure you have everything you need to participate in the races.
• Tips for volunteers: Follow the tips for volunteers to prepare yourself and contribute to the success of the event.

Conclusion

The international canoe races between Graubünden and Ticino represent a unique opportunity for cross-border workers to live an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a participant, a spectator, or a volunteer, plan carefully and enjoy the excitement of this international event. Don't forget to use our tools to plan your participation and share your moments on social media with the hashtag #TicinoMoesa2026.

Source: laregione.ch