It’s time to reflect on an incredible International Canoe Federation season as we pick out 10 memorable moments. Firstly, let’s look back at when Ukraine’s Liudmyla Luzan was crowned canoe queen in Milan.
There was a sense of inevitability when Ukraine’s Liudmyla Luzan lined up for the women’s canoe single 200m final in Milan.
It was a star-studded field featuring the reigning Olympic gold medallist, the defending world champion, a young paddler high on confidence and several other contenders.
Before the International Canoe Federation Canoe Sprint World Championships got underway, this was one of the most eagerly anticipated finals which was expected to go down to the wire.
Yet when the race started, it was clear that there was only going to be one winner.
Having achieved three golds already in Milan, Luzan, the multiple Olympic and world medallist, was on the crest of a wave and ready to complete a sensational set of four titles at a single World Championships.
Canada’s Katie Vincent, the Olympic gold medallist from Paris 2024, and Cuba’s Yarisleidis Cirilo Duboys, the 2023 world champion, were aiming to dash Luzan’s hopes.
Viktoriia Yarchevska, the Spaniard who was enjoying a superb breakthrough season, and Ekaterina Shilapnikoa, the Individual Neutral Athlete, were also seeking to snatch the title away from Luzan.
It was a gripping final with Cirilo Duboys putting up a strong fight, but Luzan found an extra level that she had managed to achieve all week.
Luzan powered across the finish line in 46.09, beating Cirilo Duboys by 0.18, while Shliapnikova edged out Vincent by 0.09 to bag bronze.
“This is magic,” said Luzan.
“It is amazing.
“Now I am going to sleep and celebrate and come back even stronger.
“I did everything I could to achieve this victory, and although it wasn't an easy start, I tried my best to secure it, and I am incredibly happy.”
Victory completed a remarkable week for Luzan as she left Milan with four gold medals around her neck.
Luzan captured the women’s C1 500m and formed a stunning partnership with Iryna Fedoriv.
The Ukrainian duo sealed women’s canoe double gold over both the 200m and 500m distances.
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