Wow!

Wow! What a send off! The level of support has blown me away. I am so happy I was able to share my excitement with all of you. From the school talks, to the send off from my club (Ascot Kayak Club), and especially seeing my friends and family! I leave Perth feeling so happy and positive. That sounds weird. Of course I should be happy and positive, I’m going to the Olympics, but before the school talks and coming back to Perth I was… excited, focused, but isolated. Don’t get me wrong, it has been great totally immersing myself in training, but I lacked perspective. The Olympics isn’t just about the race. It’s a celebration of humanity. I know that sounds corny, but let me explain. Whenever I give a talk at a school, or catch up with friends, or even when my Mum embarrasses me by telling a total stranger that I am going to the Olympics, I see how excited they become. I don’t know of many other events that inspire such a positive reaction.

I’m so glad I took the opportunity to talk at a couple of schools. It has been such a rewarding experience and has left me with some great memories. After giving a presentation at my primary school, Riverlands Montessori School, I asked, what was their favorite sport. I hoped they might say Canoe Slalom, but one boy screamed at the top of his lungs, “I love skipping.” It was such a great response! It was so funny but so honest.

We arrived in London yesterday, and in stark contrast to our last training camp, were greeted by beautiful blue skies and a warm day. Lets hope it stays like this! Thanks again to everyone for your support. You added a bit more fuel to the fire!