Will Protesting Paddlers Still Get Their Prizes?

Monday’s historic finale to the 2026 La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge left fans buzzing and asking questions, including whether the athletes who rejected the new finish line and paddled in protest can still claim the prizes they earned.

Several teams did not attend the official awards ceremony after paddling past the designated finish by Haulover Bridge near the Grand Resort and instead paddled their way in protest to the traditional finish line at Belcan Bridge in Belize City.

Their absence raised questions about medals, station prizes and final cash payouts.

But the Belize Canoe Association insists the competitors followed the rules from start to finish. Vice President Elvin Penner told News 5 that none of the protesting paddlers violated race regulations and should not be penalised for how they chose to conclude their race.

“The organisers will be forced to give every prize and trophy to the persons that deserve it,” Penner said.

We’ll have more details in tonight’s newscast. Join us at 6:00pm on News 5 Live.