There have been many memorable moments in a sensational International Canoe Federation season. In the fourth of our moments of 2024, we look back at when Gordan Harbrecht made Canoe Ocean Racing history for Europe.
Scrolling through the record books of the ICF Canoe Ocean Racing World Championships, only two nations had won men’s surfski gold before this year.
Either a South African or Australian man had taken top spot in the SS1 since the first edition of the flagship event 11 years ago.
From 2013 to 2023, 20 of the 21 medals had been picked up by either a paddler from two countries, underling their duopoly of the event.
But Gordan Harbrecht, who became the first European to win a men’s SS1 medal with silver in 2021, was determined to buck the trend.
After missing out on gold three years ago, the German refused to come up short again as he took to the Madeira waters.
Conditions were tricky but Harbrecht powered through the waves, securing an historic gold for Europe.
“I am stoked,” said 38-year-old Harbrecht.
“I had a race plan, went for it and I am so happy with the outcome.
“It was super tough race.
“There was a very nice downwind for the first half and then the second half it was just pushing against the wind.
“It wasn’t nice, but I just followed my plan and I am super stoked with the result.
“I have had some good results in the last few years.
“I was on the podium in 2021 but some of the best guys were missing due to COVID.
“I am super happy to win the title, I couldn’t have asked for more.”
Australia’s Cory Hill was the favourite to come out on top having won the title in 2022 and 2023 but he proved not match for Harbrecht.
“At the end there, Gordan showed how strong he is,” said Hill, who had to settle for silver.
“He was unbeatable today, it was scary to see how fast he was paddling.”
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