Paddle Australia is pleased to announce Penrith local Lauren Chester as the General Manager for the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships.

Lauren commenced in the role on Monday 25 November, and over the next 11 months will work closely with the Host Organising Committee on the delivery of the 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships. With the first Host Organising Committee meeting held earlier this week, Lauren has already hit the ground running.

Lauren brings to the role a depth of experience, most recently working at the Cronulla Sutherland Sharks as the Head of Stadium Operations and Events. She is a proud Dharawal woman, who is deeply committed to promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

Throughout her career, Lauren has also worked in a number of roles overseas, and at major events, including the London 2012 Olympic Games, Arsenal Football Club and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.

Paddle Australia CEO Kim Crane welcomed Lauren to the role, and said she’s looking forward to working together to deliver the return of the World Championships down under.

“We’re super excited to have Lauren joining the team as the General Manager for the Canoe Slalom World Championships,” Crane said.

“Growing up in Penrith, Lauren understands the local communities well and will be an asset to our team in making sure we deliver well on the community engagement aspects of the event.

“With today marking 300 days to the event, the countdown is well and truly heating up, so we’re pleased to have Lauren on board,” she said.

Lauren said she’s excited to be joining the Paddle Australia team on the road to the World Championships.

“I’m thrilled to be joining Paddle Australia on their journey towards the Canoe Slalom World Championships next year. It’s an incredible opportunity to harness the success of our athletes in Paris and showcase the sport and our region on the world stage,” Chester said.

“On a personal note, being able to deliver an event of this scale mere minutes from where I grew up is very special. I’m looking forward to creating a memorable experience for not only the competitors, but the Western Sydney community,” she said.

The 2025 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships will be held from 1-6 October 2025 at Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

‍