The Edinburgh Schools athlete put in a show stopping display in the final to win her individual international medal and become Britain’s first ever U23 World Champion in the women’s kayak.

Seventh down in the final after a solid semi-final run, Leaver looked assured in her approach as she navigated a tricky course set up, and was on for a great time despite being behind at both initial splits.

Chasing the clean time of 101.16, the Scot kept her clean before a storming bottom section which made up nearly two seconds on Czechia paddler Katerina Bekova to go in first with 100.16.

Leaver then had the nervous wait to see where she stacked up with senior international medallists still to go.

Elina Hocevar (Slovenia) came closest, just 0.12 shy of Leaver, but once Lucie Nesnidalova (Czechia) failed to beat the Brit, her gold and World title were confirmed. 

Lost for words, Leaver said:

“To win the U23 world title is crazy! It feels so surreal. Everything happened so fast, it’s all just sinking in what I have achieved today.

“I had a few things from my semis run which I wanted to work on and I’d already put down good runs previously. I just wanted to improve and the result would take care of itself. 

“It was such a nervous wait for the final three paddlers. All the Brits surrounded the kiss and cry area and it was great to have their support. I really didn’t know what to expect.

“It’s my first individual medal and for it to be gold is just unbelievable.”

Huge congratulations to Lois!