Big guns show presence heading into Australia Day
The main contenders began to show their true colours on Friday evening after the second runs of the Men’s C1 and C2 and the Women’s K1.
2006 world champion Jana Dukatova (Slovakia) increased her lead over defending champion Violetta Oblinger – Peters and Spanish paddler Maialen Chourraut. Dukatova has a combined time of 199.61, a full six seconds ahead of Oblinger – Peters. Sarah Grant is in 4th place and along the way was crowned national champion in the Women’s K1.
Tony Estanguet produced another excellent run to be seeded first in the Men’s C1. Estanguet, who will be looking for his third successive Olympic title later this year, is seeded ahead of Spain’s Ander Elosegui and fellow countryman Denis Gargaud – Chanut.
West Australian Robin Bell added another Australian title to his collection despite a ninth place finish in the qualifying runs. 2007 world champion, Michal Martikan, also struggled on Friday and will have a seeding of 20 heading into tomorrow’s racing.
In the Men’s C2 Slovakians Ladislav and Peter Skantar head the field after Friday and will be seeded 1 during the semi finals on Australia Day. Tim Baillie and Etienne Stott of Great Britain will be seeded second with Australian national champions Lachie Milne and Mark Bellofiore a further spot back.
The semi finals will begin on Saturday morning at 7am with the Men’s K1, before the other event proceed shortly afterwards. Spectators are braced for a special day of racing on Australia Day.
Ladies K1 Results
Men's C1 Results
Men's C2 Results
Semi-Final Startlist
