The event kicked off with a brilliant start as Sam Leaver (Edinburgh Schools), Ben Haylett (Holme Pierrepont), and David Paterson (Manchester) claimed the Bronze in the U23 Men's K1 Team. Led by Scottish Performance Alumni, Sam Leaver, the trio delivered an impressive run of 94.02 with an unfortunate touch on gate 17, earning a podium spot amidst tough competition from French and Spanish teams.

The excitement continued the next day as Sam Leaver took on the Kayak Cross head-to-head racing. With determination and skill, Sam powered through the course, taking the first up a bit too high but recovering beautifully. Confident of a medal, Sam allowed his fellow competitor Anatole Delassus to paddle first through the final upstream, which left it clear for Sam to race down through the finish, claiming a remarkable Silver medal.

Ecstatic with his racing across the weekend, Sam said: “I’m so happy to win silver today. Seems as I didn’t expect to be here originally as second reserve boat from selection, a medal in Kayak Cross, a medal in the Teams and a final in the Canoe Slalom, I’m really pleased and happy with the four days of racing”

“I’m just so buzzing to win Bronze”

Peter Linksted (Falkirk & Stirling) another Scottish Performance Alumni, shone in the U23 Men's C1. A highlight of the championship came when the team of Kurts Adams Rozentals (Stafford & Stone), Peter Linksted, and James Kettle (Lee Valley) achieved Britain's first Gold medal of the championship. These exceptional athletes became the U23 C1M European Champions in a tense and thrilling race, overcoming re-runs, penalties and falling gates! To emerge victorious, this triumphant trio pushed through all emotions, denounced doubt, demonstrated inspirational teamwork and skill. Their legacy? A Gold medal, and a solid time of 100.3. 

Peter also achieved a lifetime best performance in the individual C1. Qualifying strongly in the semi-finals, with a couple of edgy moments (on gates 7 & 8), Peter took time to reflect, giving him the confidence to storm down the course, delivering: a clean and fast run of 95.13 on the slalom course solidifying his place on the podium, securing a well-deserved Bronze medal, his first at an international competition. 

Lois Leaver (Edinburgh Schools) showcased her tenacity and talent (overcoming nerves and three touches) storming down the course and making it to the Women's U23 K1 Final where she secured an impressive 5th place finish, her best international finish to date.

Oscar Wyllie from Breadalbane and Murray Robb from CR Cats made their mark in the championships, showcasing their talent with impressive performances as Semi-Finalists. Murray's explosive start in the K1M Semi-Finals set the stage for a strong performance, earning him a commendable 30th place overall. Meanwhile, Oscar demonstrated his skill with a masterful start, securing 21st place overall — a great achievement in the fiercely competitive event. 

Overall, the Scottish Performance paddlers and GB team demonstrated true talent, gripping tenacity, and love for the sport. Resulting in a success of 6 well-deserved medals, in a highly competitive Olympic Sport. Their achievements are a testament to their bright future in the sport and are an inspiration to us all.