The 23 competitors first raced in three heats. The top three finishers from each of the heats advanced directly to the semifinals while the remaining competitors competed in the repechages.
Robinson led for the first 250 meters before Holmann took over to lead at 500 meters. Bonomi took the lead at the 750 meter mark before Holmann, using a wooden boat, pulled away to win by over a boat length.
Wallechinsky, David and Jaime Loucky (2008). "Canoeing: Men's Kayak Singles 1000 Meters". In The Complete Book of the Olympics: 2008 Edition. London: Aurum Press Limited. p. 473.