National Canoeing Award for Longford’s Jake Bermingham

Jake Bermingham was honoured with the Junior Male Freestyle Paddler 2026 title for the second consecutive year by Canoeing Ireland at their Annual Awards Ceremony, held on Saturday night last, 29 November, in the Mullingar Park Hotel.

 Jake, a 5th year student at Mercy Ballymahon Secondary School and a member of Inny Kayak Club, began paddling in 2015 and progressed into whitewater kayaking in 2021.

His introduction to freestyle in 2023 marked the beginning of a rapid and impressive rise. In just two years, he has become one of Canoeing Ireland’s leading junior athletes — known for his technical skill, strong work ethic, and calm competitive presence.

His achievements throughout the 2025 season highlight his exceptional progression and competitive strength, including:

7th place – World Championships, Platting, Germany

7th place – European Open, Nottingham

Irish Under-18 National Freestyle Champion

1st place – Southeast Fest

1st place – Junior Liffey Descent

1st place – Team Ireland Trials for the 2026 European Championships in Finland

 Freestyle kayaking is a dynamic and creative discipline within whitewater sport, often described as gymnastics on water. Using specialist freestyle kayaks, paddlers perform aerial tricks and fluid manoeuvres while surfing powerful river features.

 Jake’s dedication and success reflect his passion and future potential within Irish freestyle paddling. Congratulations and looking forward to following his continued progress on the international stage.