Paddle up: A guide to whitewater racing in Rio

(Photo: The Associated Press)Whitewater churns into foam as double-ended paddles windmill one-person boats into position. The paddles go up in the air as the boats slide through red or green gates, then the furious wind milling begins again.

For a sport that doesn't get the attention of some of the more well-known ones, whitewater canoe and kayak has plenty of action and drama.

A few things to look for in whitewater canoe/kayak at the Rio Olympics next month:

THE LOWDOWN: The four canoe/kayak slalom events will be held Aug. 7-11, with medals award the final three days. Men compete in single and double canoe, along with kayak. Women compete in kayak only. The races will take place at the…