Since 1996, there have been many changes. Building upon the boathouse and tower infrastructure constructed as a part of the Olympic Legacy, the Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club has grown to win three national club titles and place several athletes on national teams and World Championship. The Lake Lanier Olympic Center has hosted 20 major events since the conclusion of the 1996 Games. We started out small in the world of sprint canoe / kayak, but with a big vision we have made dramatic strides in building a world-class program.

At the same time, much has remained the same since 1996. Located fifty miles north of Atlanta and nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Gainesville remains the "hospitality capital of the world," a designation earned during the '96 Olympics.

We believe you will find, once again, a welcoming and friendly community providing first class hospitality, entertainment, and competition. We hope that you will accept the opportunity to experience the excitement of competition while also enjoying all that Gainesville and Northeast Georgia has to offer.

Just as Gainesville and Lake Lanier embraced the World in 1996, the Lanier Canoe 2003 Organizing Committee extends a sincere invitation to all competitors, officials, family, friends and fans to visit and enjoy our venue, our city, and our region. We are convinced that your time with us will be enriching and your competitive efforts rewarding.