As the International Canoe Federation Canoe Sprint World Cups in Szeged and Brandenburg approach, Isaquias Guimaraes Queiroz is preparing to lead Brazil into a new Olympic cycle.
Reflecting on the journey that continues to drive him, five-time Olympic medallist Queiroz highlighted the sacrifices, discipline, and dedication required to compete at the highest level as he begins the road toward LA28.
Behind every result lies an intense routine of training, physical and mental preparation, and personal sacrifice – realities often unseen by the public.
“People don’t see the suffering behind it [the scenes]. They see the defeats and victories, but what we go through in training, the fatigue, that remains hidden,” Queiroz told the Brazilian Canoe Confederation.
Born in the state of Bahia, Brazil, Queiroz found a pathway for personal development and social mobility through Canoe Sprint.
“My goal was always to change my life and provide better conditions for my family. Sport was that path,” he said.
“It’s a life of sacrifice. Either you have a goal or you don’t. To reach the top level, there’s no way around it.”
Over the years, Queiroz’ Olympic medals and international titles have established his legacy as one of the greatest stars in Brazilian sport, with his name becoming synonymous with the discipline.
The multiple-time world champion credited his success to unwavering family support.
“My family has always been with me, there’s a lot people don’t see, especially what my wife and my mother do so I can compete at the highest level.”
Today, Queiroz also embraces the responsibility of serving as a reference for younger athletes entering the sport. As Canoe Sprint continues to evolve in Brazil, he recognises the progress made in infrastructure, development pathways, and athlete preparation.
This moment also represents an important transition for the Brazilian national team.
“Brazil is going through a key renewal phase, with new athletes emerging and gaining space alongside established names like Queiroz,” said Brazilian National Team Head Coach, Lauro de Souza Junior.
“This strengthens the team and raises the competitive level of Canoe Sprint in the country. We aim to develop new talents for the next cycles, ready for the world stage,” said Souza Junior.
Focused on the future, Queiroz remains motivated by the challenge of competing for another Olympic medal and continuing to contribute to the growth of the sport.
“If it’s about arriving in top shape in Los Angeles, I will. The important thing is to keep dedicating myself to the maximum,” said Quieroz.
As Brazil begin a new Olympic cycle towards LA28, Quieroz’s career continues to symbolize excellence, perseverance, and the lasting impact sport can have both within and beyond competition.
Led by the Olympic champion, the Brazilian team combines established experience with emerging talent as the country begins its journey toward the Games.
The delegation includes Filipe Vinicius Santana Vieira, Gabriel Assunção Nascimento, Jacky Jamael Nascimento Godmann, Lorrane Santos Souza, Mateus Nunes Bastos dos Santos, and Valdenice Conceição do Nascimento.
Read the original article here.
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