India’s Pradhyumna Singh Rathod believes his decision to move to Germany will boost his hopes of making the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
Rathod made his debut at the International Canoe Federation Canoe Slalom World Cup in Augsburg today when he completed the heats of the men’s K1.
It was the same venue where Rathod made his first appearance at the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in 2022 and it is now the city where the Indian paddler is based.
The 19-year-old made the move last December and plans to remain in Augsburg in his bid to compete at the Olympics in four years’ time.
“It means a lot to me to represent my country here and being the only Indian competitor at this World Cup,” said Rathod.
“The first World Championships I went to at a senior level was here in Augsburg in 2022 so I have an emotional connection with this course.
“Now I live and train here.
“I am planning to stay here until the next Olympic Games in 2028.
“Augsburg is one of the best courses in the world and one of the best places to stay as well.”
Rathod reckons the experience in Augsburg will do him the power of good as he continues to compete on the World Cup circuit in 2024.
“Paddling with the world’s best here at the senior level and seeing Olympic medallists and world champions is an awesome experience,” said Rathod.
“This is the first World Cup of my career and then I am looking forward to the next four World Cups this year.
“I have been training here for quite a while now so it is quite frustrating when you mess it up in the run.
“I just want to learn from people.
“There are no high expectations from myself, I need complete the course and be satisfied with myself after the run.
“I need to think that I did my best and I am aiming for the coming years to give competition to the best paddlers.
“We have four years until the Olympics so anything can happen.
“If I stay here, I am confident in myself that if I train I will get there.”
For all the results from today's races, click here.
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