The first man-made wild water trail in Austria has just been opened. The project worth 3.9 million Euro is part of the new water sports centre in Vienna built through the cooperation of the Vienna City government and the Ministry for Sport. It was inaugurated on August 30 although renovations works at the rowing center are still ongoing.
With the wild water trail in place on the Donauinsel or the Danube River, water sports such as rowing and canoeing (including canoeing slalom), rodeo and rafting can now be done on the river. This also gives the Austrian Canoeing Association a golden opportunity to do their optimal trainings in the area. Water rescuers can also practice and train in the same area.
Situated near the Steinspornbrucke on the Neuen Donau, the wild water trail measures 250 meters in length and 12 meters wide. The maximum water speed will range from 15 to 20 kph.
Officials of the Austrian Canoeing Association said having a wild water trail is a big advantage to them. This is because the water level and its speed can be controlled which makes it safer for athletes and rescuers who want to practice their skills at the site as well as for recreational sports fans who simply want to try various water sports such as rafting and canoeing.
Spectators who want to see action along the Danube River will be provided with a stand. This viewing stand will be able to accommodate some 10,000 people.
