We will try to secure at least one Olympic spot, say Přindiš and Fišerová about kayak cross in Troja

The ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup returns to Prague for the twentieth time! This significant sporting event, which annually attracts the attention of fans from all over the world, will once again bring a unique atmosphere and excitement to the Czech capital. Before the start of the race, a press conference was held where the Czech Olympians and the head of the World Cup organizing committee, Jiří Rohan, met with media representatives.

The press conference took place on Wednesday, June 5, at the Boutique Hotel Jalta. Jiří Rohan, who leads the organizing committee, expressed his joy at the return of the World Cup to Prague and emphasized the importance of this race for Czech sports. "We are proud to host the World Cup in Prague again. This race is always a great challenge for us, but also an opportunity to show off our top athletes," said Rohan.

The Czech competitors present at the conference expressed their determination to deliver their best performances in front of their home crowd and at the Olympic Games in Paris. "It’s always special for us to race at home in front of our fans. It's amazing motivation, and I believe their support will drive us to achieve the best results," said canoeist Gabriela Satková. "The long stressful period of Olympic qualification is behind us. After the nominations, I felt an incredible relief and I am really looking forward to the Olympics. I am doing everything to perform my best there!" added the canoeist, who will make her Olympic debut in Paris.

Future Olympian Antonie Galušková is not only a top kayaker but also a pilot. "We currently spend all our time on the water, and I really miss flying. Apart from the euphoria I experience on the water, I also experience it in the air. It’s incredible to be up there and focus solely on flying. It clears my head. After the Olympics, instead of a vacation, I'll take to the skies," said the fastest Czech kayaker.

Also attending the conference was Tokyo gold medalist Jiří Prskavec, who will represent the Czech Republic in the kayak category. Lukáš Rohan, who secured his spot on the canoe, will try to defend his Olympic silver medal. "The main goal is not to mess up. The atmosphere in Paris will be very different, and it's important to stay grounded," admitted Lukáš Rohan.

Among the six competitors was Vít Přindiš, who faces the most important race of the season - the fight for an Olympic spot. "Sunday's Kayak Cross race will be tough. The whole world is currently training for this one race. The best competitors will be in Prague, and only three will qualify for the Olympics. We will try to secure at least one spot for the Czech Republic and see how it all turns out," said the reigning European champion. Just like Přindiš in the men's category, Tereza Fišerová will compete in the women's category.

"At the moment, we are the most represented sport in terms of participation in the Olympic Games. This weekend, we have the chance to secure two more spots, making us the largest delegation of the Czech Olympic team," admitted federation president Stanislav Ježek.

The World Cup in Prague promises another great spectacle and thrilling moments that sports fans will not want to miss. Due to an unexpected influx of water, the start of the race has been moved to Friday, June 7, at 1:15 PM. "The water flow in Prague is still high. In coordination with Povodí Vltavy and their cooperative approach, we hope everything will go well," explained race director Jiří Rohan. "The program is shortened to three days. All competitors will have their first run, which will be a direct qualifier to the finals," added Stanislav Ježek.

Preparations for the race are in full swing, and on Friday, the world's best athletes will take to the start to compete for valuable points and victories. Fans can look forward to a top sporting experience. Updated Program

Photo: Luděk Šipla