Paralympian Dylan Littlehales has secured bronze medal in Men’s KL3 200 at the ICF Canoe Sprint & Paracanoe World Championships in Canada.
In a fiercely contested final, the race came down to a photo finish with nothing separating the top three.
At the halfway mark of the World Championships, Australia has secured two medals with Littlehales’ bronze and Ben Sainsbury securing a gold medal on the opening day of competition.
It was another strong day for the Aussies at the World Championships, with Australia now booking their spot in 15 A Finals from 18 events entered.
While Littlehales crossed the line hoping to finish atop of the podium, he was pleased to be coming home with a medal.
“That was tough being so close to getting the world champion title and it came down to a photo finish. But the goal this year was to get on the podium and I had a good race and achieved that, so I’m really happy.
“I think I’m in a good place and have had help and support from many, learning about many perspectives of paddling which has helped a lot,” he said.
Littlehales said the Australian squad has their sights firmly set on the Paris Paralympics and the new look squad boasts a strong mix of experience and young talent.
“Now we’re into the Paris cycle and with another 12 months of training, who knows where I could be then.
“I’m excited to see where this young team can go over the next few years and with Curtis [McGrath] set to return after his break and the talent that has joined over the last 12 months, it’s a really exciting time for our Australian team,” he said.
The action continues in Canada tonight with 12 Aussies in action across paracanoe and canoe sprint races.
The Canoe Sprint & Paracanoe World Championships are streamed live on Planet Canoe YouTube.Results available HERE. See the event schedule HERE. Find out more information HERE.
Aussies in Action
11:36pm – Women KL2 200, Susan Seipel
11:52pm – Women KL3 200, Kat O’Kelly Kennedy
12:10am – Women K4 500, Ella Beere, Alyssa Bull, Alexandra Clarke, Yale Steinpreis
12:52am – Men K1 500, Jean van der Westhuyzen
1:07am – Women K2 500, Ella Beere and Yale Steinpreis
1:21am – Women K1 500, Alyssa Bull
1:55am – Men K1 1000, Tom Green
3:30am – Men K4 500, Pierre van der Westhuyzen, Fletcher Armstrong, Jackson Collins, Noah Havard
