Paul Manning-Hunter of Edmonton, wrapped up the World Cup Final having gone 4 for 4 on making the World Cup semi-finals. Being his first year on the National Team, he exceeded his expectations. 'We really just focused on the preparation this year and weren't too worried about the outcome' said Alberta coach Mike Holroyd. 'Paul's been in the hunt for a few years and was just waiting for the opportunity compete.' The World Cup tour took the team to Slovenia, France, Germany & finally Czech.
Jessica Groeneveld of Innisfail, made the Semis in the 2nd event but finished just outside in the others. She's looking forward to longer preparation for the World Championships in Bratislava, Slovakia, September 7th-11th. The Worlds are also the first of the Olympic Selection events for Nation spots. Canada is hoping for multiple spots in Bratislava to lessen the number of classes needing the second chance race in Brazil in February.
Thomas and Daniel Purcell of Innisfail, raced well in the final World Cup, in the tough to qualify C2 class. This was their second ever World Cup and they too are enjoying the learning curve leading into the Olympic year.
In the only non-Olympic (yet) class, Haley Daniels of Calgary, bounced back from a rough first run in her very first World Cup with a solid run 2. The C1 women's class is two years old this year and she is excited to race in Bratislava on the very tough Danube race course.
Training is now well underway in Bratislava and all the Canadian athletes are looking good on the water and the coaching staff is optomistic about the event. We have the biggest team in years with a number of serious contenders. A number of International rivalries at the top of all classes will lead to an epic battle for World Championship medals and Olympic berths. Set your alarms to watch all the action live!
The World Championships will air on Rogers SportsNet. Check your local listing for the full schedule. http://www.sportsnet.ca/
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