LUDINGTON, Mich. — Paddleboarder Katniss Paris from Ludington rose to the top of her sport last year, winning a world championship title.

However, this October, her reign could be at risk. She’s aiming to compete in the ICF Stand Up Paddleboard World Championships in Abu Dhabi, but the trip comes with a steep price tag .

Paris is facing her toughest challenge yet: getting the chance to defend her title. At 31 years old, she made history last year in Sarasota, Florida, winning the world championship 100-meter sprint in paddleboarding.

“I'm the 2024 100-meter sprint World Champion for stand up paddleboard and I am the fastest woman in the world right now, so that’s pretty awesome,” said Paris.

Her victory wasn’t just a dream; it was a statement. She's spent nearly a decade training o

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