Back on Team after two years

And so the summer of travelling began. As I looked forward and planned around my international races it was looking to be a busy but exciting summer. I had trips away for coaching, training and competing. In total I would travel to 6 different countries. I was roughly here (UK) a week, away a week for 3 months straight.

From selection into the summer months I was trying to touch on why something still wasn’t quite right with my paddling. Since I was paddling myself I was really trying to focus on the small details, not just my general paddling techniques etc. I knew I was a good paddler but how could I be better (the best!). That’s where the decision to change to smaller blades came in. After paddling with the Scottish for two weeks in Slovakia, Czech Republic and Germany (and a fellow coach) I came to the conclusion I could apply more power to a smaller blade through a slightly longer stroke and transfer onto the next stroke better and faster. We were correct but putting this all in place ended up flying out to the Europeans with a set of paddles to make on the first day in Germany to train, get used to and race with. All a bit last minute and stressful but as soon as I got on the water, they felt amazing. I could move my blade with ease, slicing through the water. The best decision ever. I also changed boats, I downsized volume as the course was smaller and very ‘white watery’. So easier to manoeuvre and smaller boat (where I ended up buying it and selling my bigger one.)

But one mistake cost me the final!!!!

Training had gone so well and I was feeling strong on the water. I had my parents out to support me and I loved being back on an international start line racing for my country. I knew I had the potential to final or even medal. Two years ago I had made the final at my last U23 Euros, finishing 9th. Yes I had been injured since then but I felt like I had come back stronger.

I finished 14th – upset with the result was an understatement. My run just didn’t go to plan. Bits were really good but other sections cost me time. I think the fact I knew I was better than the result that had happened was the frustrating part. But my run wasn’t the best it could’ve have been, although I tried my best.

Onto World Cup 4 in Ivrea, Italy!