Coaching Licence, Comeback and Thoughts of Troja. Vít Přindiš Is Back in the Game

After a year-long break, Vít Přindiš is returning to the Czech elite. The kayaker has been through a period of change, reflection and new experiences - and now he is heading back to the start line. One major certainty is already in place: he has earned a spot on the national team in kayak cross. Now, he wants to add classic slalom as well. If everything goes according to plan, he will compete in two disciplines at the World Cup in Prague-Troja from 5 to 7 June 2026. First, however, he faces a crucial domestic selection race.

Focused on Kayak Cross: “It Was Crucial”

“In recent years, I’ve been focusing on kayak cross much more than before, so this year’s qualification was really crucial for me,” says Přindiš.

Although he devoted roughly a third of his winter preparation to the discipline, he believes the systematic work is paying off.

“We had a specialized training camp on Réunion, with around twenty paddlers taking part. We did a huge amount of work there, and it was very beneficial,” he explains.

Securing a place in the Czech team has also brought him greater peace of mind.

“I feel more relaxed ahead of the slalom selection. A huge weight has been lifted from my shoulders - returning to the team after injury. Now we’ll see how things look on the water.”

A Year Outside the National Team? Camps, Studies and a Return to His Roots

Although he was not part of the national team last year, he certainly did not step away from the sport. Together with canoeist Lukáš Rohan, he launched a series of camps for U23 athletes who had not made the national team.

“We organized four micro-camps in Troja. We tried to pass on our experience, and we also brought in experts in nutrition, psychology and running,” Přindiš explains.

In addition, he was involved in the European Youth Olympic Festival in North Macedonia, focused on recovery, and found time for things that had previously been pushed aside.

“I completed my coaching studies, and since autumn I’ve held a B-level coaching licence, which makes me really happy,” he adds.

Racing From Behind the Scenes: “You Realize How Much Work Goes Into It”

In the past, Přindiš was heavily involved in organizing races in Troja. In recent years, however, his own career meant he had to take a step back.

“Last year was a bit more flexible for me, so I got involved more — almost like when I was younger. I helped from morning until evening,” he smiles. “It’s incredible to see how many people and how much work are behind a single race. It makes you appreciate it all much more.”

“I would love Troja to continue hosting world-class events. And I believe the World Championships could return here one day — ideally on a new course. That would be a huge celebration for canoe slalom,” concludes the 2022 world champion from Augsburg.

 

The 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup in Prague-Troja is financially supported by a number of partners, led by general partner ČEZ Group, main partner UNIQA financial group, the National Sports Agency, the City of Prague and other partners.