Thomas Bach congratulated canoeing after witnessing some spectacular canoe sprint action as the second day of medal races concluded at the Lagoa Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. 

Arriving in time to watch the C1 Men 200m race for gold the IOC President was treated to a compelling watch alongside the ICF President and IOC Member José Perurena.

Ukrains Iurii Cheban crossed the line first with Azerbaijan's Valentin Demyaneko securing silver.

However it was local, Isaquias Queiroz Dos Santos (BRA) that received the most rapturous reception when he shot his boat forward to snatch bronze, the Brazilian's second medal of the Games.

“The level of performance of athletes is going beyond expectations. There are many very, very close decisions as you could just see here,” commented Bach.

Talking about the sports stunning six-day backdrop the Games top man continued: 

“The venue is very exciting. I think it’s the most iconic location here in Rio de Janeiro.

“When you see the images with the silhouette of Rio on the course and the crowds coming in I can only say congratulations to canoeing.”

Bach was also keen to congratulate the ICFs efforts in sports development.

“I just learnt from your President that here in the final we have Georgia who was part of the development programme of the ICF. This shows the development programme is working and all this together makes the great success of canoeing.”


With two disciplines at the Games, Bach was also asked about his thoughts on the canoe slalom venue at the Deodoro Stadium.

“This is another iconic venue, first of all for the location, but secondly also with regard to the legacy; having this venue serving as a leisure park for one of the poorest neighbourhoods in Rio de Janeiro is a wonderful legacy for the citizens of Rio.”

The venue is also scheduled to host future top level racing with the Canoe Freestyle World Cup visiting in less than a month and future canoe slalom world chamionships  also penciled in.