Eight-time Olympic champion Lisa Carrington will not be competing internationally this year, it has been announced.
Carrington was not part of the New Zealand team for the first two International Canoe Federation Canoe Sprint World Cups in Szeged and Poznan.
However, Canoe Racing New Zealand has confirmed that the country’s most successful Olympian, with eight gold and one bronze medal, will be sitting out the whole season.
Earlier this year, the 35-year-old Carrington confirmed that she is ready to commit to another Olympic cycle through to LA 28.
“Canoe Racing New Zealand can confirm that Lisa Carrington will not compete internationally during the 2025 season,” the National Federation said.
“Since making her senior debut for New Zealand in 2009, Lisa has been a constant presence on the international stage and a leading figure in our sport.
“After 16 consecutive seasons at the top level, Lisa has opted not to travel with the team in 2025, making this year look slightly different from previous ones.
“She’s back to full training and enjoying the added flexibility in her schedule. The plan is to return to international competition next year, with her sights firmly set on LA 2028.
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“In the meantime, she’s fully behind the team as they compete in this month’s World Cups and is excited to see how they perform.”
Carrington won three golds at Paris 2024, cursing to victory in the kayak single 500m, kayak double 500m and kayak four 500m.
The feat meant she equalled the record title tally of Germany’s Birgit Fischer, which had stood for 20 years.
The K4 500m title in France was extra special as it was New Zealand’s first, ending a 40-year domination by Germany and Hungary in the event at the Olympic Games.
Her teammates from the K4 boat — Alicia Hoskin, Olivia Brett, and Tara Vaughan — have all been selected to represent New Zealand internationally this year.
For the full New Zealand squad for the first two ICF Canoe Sprint World Cups, click here.
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