As kayak cross debuts at the Olympic Games, French Olympic champion Benoit Peschier finds himself in a new role.
The Athens 2004 men’s kayak gold medallist is now a coach, aiming to lead Boris Neveu to success on home waters.
Peschier, reminiscing about his competitive career, wonders what could have been if kayak cross had been an Olympic sport during his time.
Mentoring Neveu, Peschier said he will be experiencing a “different kind of stress” compared to his days as an athlete.
“I am so pleased with kayak cross,” Peschier said.
“I was talking with some athletes from my time. It would have been nice to get this opportunity as an athlete.
“But I am looking forward to seeing it at the Olympic Games.
“It’s a very different kind of stress.
“As a coach, you don’t have to be as focused as an athlete but it’s tricky as you don’t have the full power to control what can happen.
“But I do enjoy it and hope that Boris can win gold.”
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Peschier flagged off the men’s kayak competition on the day of the final at the Vaires-sur Marne Nautical Stadium.
He admitted a mix of stress and excitement as he returned to the Canoe Slalom and Canoe Sprint stadium at Paris 2024.
Peschier was part of the Olympic Torch celebrations at the venue with compatriot Emilie Fer, who won women’s kayak gold at London 2012 and Jean Zoungrana, President of both the French Canoe-Kayak Federation and European Canoe Association.
The 49-year-old who was full of praise for the venue hopes it plays a role in molding the next generation of French paddlers.
“At first, I was a bit stressed. But it was very emotional in the end in front of the crowd,” said Peschier.
“It’s a beautiful venue with Paris 2024 designs everywhere.
“I hope the excitement from the crowd translates to our paddlers and inspires the future generations and helps develop the sport in France.”
