Paris Games: uMdloti resident amped for Olympic debut
Hamish Lovemore will be representing Team SA in the flatwater canoe sprint events in both the K2 500m and K1 1000m.
AS the Paris Olympic Games draws closer, excitement is building for uMdloti resident and paddler Hamish Lovemore.
The 24-year-old will be representing Team SA in the flatwater canoe sprint events in both the K2 500m and K1 1000m.
Hamish will team up with 14-times winner of the Dusi Canoe Marathon, Andy Birkett, in the K2 race.
The duo secured their Olympic spot at the SA Canoe Championships in March this year and will be joined by Esti Olivier and Tiffany Koch who will compete in the women’s K2 event.
Paris Olympics: Glen Anil resident nets Olympic dream
“I’ve pretty much spent the last few months living and training with Andy in East London. I moved in with him and his family, and our sole focus has been the Olympics. Getting to the Olympics was a journey in and of itself as I split my shin on Day 1 of the Dusi in February. I actually fell on the first kilometre, and the cut was severe enough to end my race. My goal was to stay fit before the SA Canoe Championships. Qualifying for the games is a massive opportunity because every athlete knows what it means to compete at the highest level at the biggest event in the world. It is just an incredible opportunity to represent my country.
“Our goal for Paris is to leave it out all on the water. The level of talent at the Olympics is insane. I would love to get into an A final in both the K2 and K1 events – that would be pretty amazing. However, if we don’t get there, and still have an amazing race and give it our all, then I’d be proud. The truth is, there is no easy heat, and looking at the names of our competitors, every person in the K2 race is a past world champion or an Olympic medalist,” he said.
Hamish will have the support of his family at the event.
Paris Olympics: Durban North triathlete ready for Olympic challenge
“I will have my family there supporting me which is a massive boost. A week before, my parents are flying to Spain to watch my brother Tom compete at the Sella Descent. Having them there is extra motivation to do my best, and knowing they are behind me all the way means the world to me,” he said.
For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
