Day one of the Canoe Slalom competition at Paris 2024 saw Australia’s Jessica Fox and home favourite Nicolas Gestin finish with the best times in the women’s kayak single and men’s canoe single, respectively. 

Here are some quotes from the athletes in action.   

Jessica Fox (Australia)

“It was a good hit-out. The heats are always about putting down a solid run to qualify into the semi and getting a feel for the water and the crowd. When I turned up, and saw how loud the crowd was, I couldn't help but feel the goosebumps and smile.”

“Everyone gets excited by the numbers for today, but it doesn't mean anything, because we go back to square one tomorrow. It's about the process of qualifying into that final, and then in that final doing the best run I can.”

Camille Prigent (France)

“After the first one, I could've let up because the job was done to make the semifinals, but I decided to push myself a bit more to get in the mood for tomorrow. 

“Today, I wanted to get in the rhythm you'd get to in an Olympic final. There were some small errors, you're always tense during qualifications, but I'm still very happy about my day.”

Evy Leibfarth (United States)

“I feel incredible. I am at the Olympics. It was super exciting to be competing with my family in the crowd. I am really satisfied. 

“I was really nervous leading into the day. But I am really proud of how I calmed myself down. I just felt the flow in my run and that’s my goal out here.”  

Ana Satila (Brazil)

“I am really happy. It was a good start to the Games. I was feeling really good during the first run. 

“I think I am proud of my runs but there are some details I can improve. I have so much energy. I am enjoying every moment.” 

Nicolas Gestin (France)

“I don't have any expectations. I just want to race each race one by one. I just want to prove myself. I'm happy to be at the top but the most important thing is to be at the top on Monday.”

Adam Burgess (Great Britain)

“It feels great. Honestly, that first run was easily the best experience of my life. I've never paddled in front of a crowd like this. I just absolutely loved every second of it.

“I wouldn't say my expectations change. It's gone as expected. I know if I paddle well, I'm right up there at the top with everyone. So yeah, just more of the same as we go forward.”

Amir Rezanejad Hassanjani (IOC Refugee Olympic Team) 

“It is amazing. That was my first Olympic experience with this wonderful atmosphere. When you are at the start, you feel this amazing sound. There was a little bit of stress and nervousness but I think I did a good job and I’m satisfied.

“I was in a good mood and that was one of my best runs.”