On June 16, 2026 the Pan-American Continental Assembly of United Rafting was convened electronically to elect its regional leadership. This assembly marked the conclusion of a historic cycle of elections that successfully established representative governing bodies across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Pan-America. With eight National Federations eligible to vote, the meeting saw representation from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay, the United States and Venezuela.
United Rafting President Danilo Barmaz addressed the assembly, highlighting the crucial role of Continental Councils in effectively communicating regional realities and challenges to the international General Board. He praised the American continent for its significant contributions to global rafting, specifically celebrating the successful Senior World Championships held in Argentina and the highly anticipated Pan-American Championship in Chile.
Ms. Verônica Mendes Medici (Brazil) was unanimously elected as the President of the Pan-American Continental Council, capturing 100% of the cast ballots. Despite a medical issue that initially prevented her full attendance, her representatives highlighted her dedication to unifying the Brazilian rafting movement and her long-term vision for achieving Olympic recognition for the sport. Ms. Mendes Medici was later able to connect to the meeting, personally expressing her commitment to increasing participation, strengthening championships, and promoting international recognition.
The assembly also elected a dedicated team of Council Members to drive the sport forward:
Ms. Tabata Liz Araya Soto (Chile) (100% of the vote).
Mr. Freddy Merchan (Colombia) (100% of the vote).
Mr. Pablo Ariel Dominguez (Argentina) (100% of the vote).
Ms. Valerie Burman (United States) (60% of the vote).
Throughout their presentations, the candidates aligned on clear strategic priorities for the Americas: pursuing Olympic recognition, establishing regular Pan-American Championships, developing rafting schools, standardizing guide education, and expanding youth participation.
The meeting concluded with President Barmaz encouraging the newly elected Council to immediately begin actioning their priorities. He particularly emphasized the importance of expanding the United Rafting family by actively engaging emerging rafting nations throughout the continent, such as Ecuador and Bolivia. The election concluded cementing a unified vision for the future of American paddle sports.
