Kneblova and Butcher celebrate kayak cross victory, Rudorfer adds silver

The Canoe Slalom World Cup in Prague -Troja concluded with an afternoon of kayak cross races. Czech fans were treated to a double home presence in the finals, which turned into a medal celebration - Tereza Kneblova dominated the women’s field, while Martin Rudorfer secured silver, finishing just behind reigning Olympic champion Finn Butcher.

Tereza Kneblova successfully navigated a series of stacked heats and delivered a commanding performance in the final, leaving all her competitors behind. “Where I was last year can’t even be compared to this season. I’m happy to be improving, I feel more confident, and I’m enjoying kayak cross more and more.

It’s really unbelievable, especially here in Troja. Thank you to everyone for the support and cheering,” said Kneblova right after crossing the finish line. Another silver medal in Troja went to France’s Camille Prigent, while yesterday’s kayak winner Evy Leibfarth took third place.

Czech paddlers were close to securing two spots in the men’s final, but Matyas Novak was unable to advance from the semifinal, where he competed alongside Martin Rudorfer. “With two paddlers advancing from each heat, we hoped to both make it to the final, but unfortunately it didn’t go the way we wanted,” said Rudorfer, who claimed his first medal at the senior level.

“I don’t even know how to sum it up – I just kept pushing as far as I could and went all out. This might be the best experience I’ve ever had. Czech fans definitely deserve a gold medal,” said the European junior champion, who was beaten only by Paris Olympic gold medallist Finn Butcher.

“Every international race is insane. I had a bit of a slow start to the season after the Olympics when it comes to cross, but now I’m feeling better and better in the plastic boat again. Winning a World Cup, especially here in Prague – my favourite course – is just amazing,” smiled the New Zealander. Bronze went to Spain’s Manuel Ochoa.

The Czech canoe slalom team took home a total of six medals from Troja.

 

Results: Kajak KrosW, Kajak Kros M

Photo: J. Svoboda a B. Reichová