March has been another incredibly busy month for our Australian paddlers, especially for those competing to represent Australia, as the countdown to the international season and the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games heats up.
On behalf of Paddle Australia, I extend my sincerest congratulations to the eleven canoe sprint athletes selected for Paris 2024. The team welcomes returning Olympic champions, three three-time Olympians and six Olympic debutants.
Echoing the words of our President Andrew Trim: “Over the course of this Olympic cycle, we have watched this group of athletes represent Australia with immense pride at World Cups and World Championships, but ultimately they’ve been working towards the goal of representing their country at the Olympic Games. This group of athletes bring a range of experiences, energy and enthusiasm that I know will continue to shine in Paris in July.”
CLICK HERE to read the full announcement on the selection of the canoe sprint athletes that are members of the Australia Olympic Team. The Australian Team that will compete at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games will be announced on 13 April.
This month we also confirmed our Australian Paracanoe Team, Australian Canoe Slalom Teams, Australian Canoe Sprint Pathways Teams and Australian Wildwater Team, all of whom will represent our country at upcoming World Championships and major events. Congratulations, not only to all the athletes selected, but to everyone who nominated for selection and competed hard for a place!
March also saw us host the 2024 Paddle Australia Canoe Sprint Championships at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith. The event was a major success, and I would like to recognise all athletes who took part and especially those who earned themselves a place on the podium. Events like this would not be possible without our volunteers and officials, who all play a very important role and worked tirelessly to make the event run seamlessly.
With the weather cooling, there’s no better time to get out on the water and enjoy a paddle. As always, look after each other and stay safe on our beautiful waterways.
Phil Jones
Paddle Australia CEO
