Rodrigo Iván González Marcano, a Puerto Rican paddler, combined participation in the 2026 ICF Marathon Canoe World Championships with a development camp in Gualeguaychú, Argentina, as part of his preparation for upcoming competitions and regional qualification events. González Marcano finished 24th in the 26‑kilometre under‑23 race at the World Championships. In an interview with the International Canoe Federation, he said, “It is very significant to be here and represent the colors of my flag. Puerto Rico had never participated in a World Championship, so it is great to be here representing it, and I hope more Puerto Ricans can come in the future.” Following the championship, he was invited by the International Canoe Federation to attend a development camp in the same city. The camp brought together 15 athletes from nine countries under the guidance of coaches Bert Onnekes and Miguel Correa. Participants worked on skill development and gained experience in marathon canoeing. González Marcano’s recent international schedule also includes the 2026 Pan American Speed and Paracanoe Championships (COPAC) and the 2026 ICF Junior and Under‑23 World Championships in sprint canoeing. He has received support from Puerto Rico’s Department of Recreation and Sports (DRD) and the Puerto Rican Canoe Federation. He plans to continue training and competing internationally, aiming to qualify for regional events while representing Puerto Rico.