The Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium in France is not among Benjamin Savsek's go-to places to compete.
At the Olympic Games Paris 2024, the Slovenian arrived as the defending canoe champion, but the results did not go his way.
Returning to the Olympic venue last month for the 2025 ECA Canoe Slalom European Championships, the fortunes did not change as he finished 11th in the men's C1 final.
Despite a C1 team silver, it was a tough stretch. But the 38-year-old is brimming with confidence ahead of the 2025 International Canoe Federation Canoe Slalom World Cup Series opener in La Seu.
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“It was challenging for me. I was aiming high at the Olympics in Paris but did not get the outcome I wanted,” Savsek said.
“It was not the best Olympic Games for me. I did not do a good run in the final. I made a mistake. I am trying to forget it now.”
Still, Savsek took positives from the experience, especially the support from fans lining the banks.
“I enjoyed the atmosphere and the spectators. That was nice. But I’ll remember Tokyo more where I won gold.”
As humble as ever and boasting a CV that his peers would dream of, Savsek is eyeing getting the basics right in 2025.
At the same time, the trust he has in his abilities is why Savsek is among the sport's elite.
His mantra is simple — focus on his runs instead of others.
“If I do a good run without penalties, I can get good results,” he added.
“I want to qualify for the finals and would like to show the best run that I am capable of. I hope for a medal.
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“I take it race by race and year by year. I set the goals before the season starts. I am motivated in every race. We have seven big races this season. That is a lot and is challenging.”
Like many on the circuit, Savsek's focus this year is the ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships in November.
To stay focused and motivated, he’s embracing a few simple pleasures like tuning into classic AC/DC tracks.
He is also incredibly thankful for a strong support system at home.
While he did not rule out LA28, a gold medal at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium remains a priority in 2025.
“I am thinking about it (LA28) but we will see. It is three years away. I am going year by year.
“This year the most important race is in Australia. The World Championships is my focus.”
Full coverage of the ICF Canoe Slalom World Cup can be viewed on the Planet Canoe YouTube channel.
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