A tearful Miren Lazkano pointed her hands to the sky after completing her run in the women's canoe final.
At the first International Canoe Federation Canoe Slalom World Cup of the year in La Seu d'Urgell, she opened the account for hosts Spain with a silver medal.
But it meant much more than that, with the 27-year-old paying tribute to her mother, who died of cancer two weeks ago.
Lazkano, who planned to start the season at the European Championships last month in France, did not compete in the continental event after her mother's health became critical.
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In the wake of this profound personal loss, the Spaniard showed grit and determination to deliver a special performance on home waters.
“I lost my mom two weeks ago. This means a lot. I wished she was here but I am sure she is watching me from somewhere,” she said after winning a C1 silver.
“I don’t know sometimes I wasn't focused at all for the race because I felt so lost in the last two weeks.”
Her performance captured not only the admiration of spectators but also the spirit of the Canoe Slalom community.
Fellow athletes and teammates rallied around her, offering comfort in a deeply emotional moment.
“I thought about having fun and I tried hard. It is unbelievable. I am feeling so loved. I am so grateful for the support,” she added.
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The loss has also changed her outlook towards life according to Aritz Fernandez, who used to be her coach.
Lazkano was always stressed about results during races, often forgetting to have fun and enjoy the sport.
That change in attitude is already bearing fruit, as she won the first-ever kayak cross individual gold medal at a World Cup.
“After this period, she has learned that this is only a competition. There are many more important things in life,” Fernandez said.
“Until now, she was always under pressure. She wanted to demonstrate how good she could be and was worried about what people would think of her.
“But after what she has gone through, she is tougher than ever. It is going to be a new era for Miren Lazkano. Her mentality has changed.”
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