Rafting Training in Slovakia
06-12/06/2026
Erasmus+ Sport Mobilit | Raft With Us
The Raft With US project, implemented from 06.06.2026 to 12.06.2026 on the Hron River in Slovakia, successfully met its set goals. The international rafting training was attended by 20 participants from Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Hungary and Portugal. During the activities, the participants developed practical skills in rafting, water safety, teamwork and communication.
Day 1: Nemecká - Mlynčok / 12,5 km
The first day of activities began with an introductory training session, during which participants learned the essential fundamentals of rafting. They were introduced to the correct paddling techniques, teamwork and communication on the raft, procedures in case of capsizing, and the basic principles of safe river navigation. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, participants acquired fundamental rafting skills and immediately put them into practice during their first run on the Hron River. The training also covered the proper use of rafting equipment and the key safety aspects associated with rafting activities.
Day 2: Mlynčok - Iliaš / 19 km
During this period, participants put their newly acquired skills to the test on a new section of the Hron River. The focus was on improving team coordination, refining paddling techniques, and building confidence on the water. The main emphasis was placed on practical model situations, where participants could practise real-life scenarios that may occur during rafting activities. The training brought new challenges, adrenaline-filled moments, and valuable experiences while strengthening teamwork and cooperation within the group.
Day 3: Iliaš - Ferata Sokolie skaly / 18 km
On the third day of activities, participants took their skills to the next level. They learned how to manoeuvre through more challenging sections of the river, react correctly to changing currents, and overcome various obstacles on the water. The programme also included discussions about the specifics of rafting in Slovakia and comparisons of river conditions and experiences from different countries. The day was concluded with fun water games that tested both participants' skills and team spirit while strengthening cooperation within the international group.
Day 4: Indoor training session
Due to the heavy rain, we stayed off the river and focused on an indoor training session dedicated to water safety and rescue skills. Throughout the day, we learned about the proper use of life jackets, rescue techniques, water rescue theory, risk assessment, and the key principles of staying safe in and around moving water. We also explored how to plan a river trip safely and effectively. Participants became familiar with useful online maps, river information platforms, water-level monitoring tools, weather forecasts, and educational websites that can support both beginners and experienced paddlers. Although we were not paddling today, it was an extremely valuable day. Understanding safety procedures, trip planning, and emergency response is just as important as developing rafting skills on the river.
Day 5: Ferata Sokolie skaly - Hronská Dúbrava / 10 km
On the final day of activities, participants returned to the water for one last rafting experience, now with confidence and joy, fully aware of how much they had improved throughout the week. After the farewell run, the group reflected on their experiences, shared feedback, and celebrated the achievements, friendships, and memories created during the project. The evening was dedicated to the closing ceremony and farewell dinner, providing a meaningful and memorable ending to an exceptional week full of learning, challenges, and international cooperation.
The Raft With US project also successfully supported community engagement, the inclusion of people with fewer opportunities, and strengthened cooperation between sports organizations from different countries. The experience gained and the partnerships established created a solid foundation for future joint initiatives, the sharing of know-how, and the development of inclusive outdoor activities at both local and international levels. The project successfully achieved its objectives and made a significant contribution to promoting inclusion, international cooperation, and community building through sport and non-formal education.
"Raft With Us" is a Cooperation Partnership project in the field of Sport, co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union.
