Selection 2023 - Kim reflects on a demanding weekend at Lee Valley.
It was a demanding weekend, to say the least. Three days of racing, with each day bringing new challenges and obstacles to overcome. But I was ready for it. I had trained hard, both physically and mentally, to prepare for this moment. And I was determined to give it my all.
From the moment I saw the course on Friday, I knew that I was excited for the race ahead. My main goal was to win. I wanted to showcase my skills, to prove to myself and to others that I was capable of dominating the selection series. And I was determined to do it consistently, every single run. Previous years I have never felt I fully show what I am capable of at selections however I got into my groove, did so much in my preparation to take care of my body and mind and I was ready for it.
I always find getting off to a good strong start at selections helps the confidence and momentum for the rest of racing and taking 2 wins in the K1 Saturday morning meant I was off to the perfect start and with best 3 results counting for the overall points I was in the most comfortable position. C1 came in the afternoon and I was determined to take it on like I had in the kayak with securing another win on the first C1 run. I fought hard on the last run of the day to get that other win but unfortunately just missed out to Sophie Ogilvie due to penalties.
Sunday I wanted to carry on with the fight and I knew if I won the first run in K1 I would take maximum points. I remember in the moment towards the last gate whilst I was fighting to stay out of the last stopper I could do it and I was relieved hearing the infamous Andy Maddocks’ BOOM meaning I had successfully for the first time at seniors selections won the first 3 selection races meaning top points and onto the Senior Team for 2023. BUT the racing wasn’t over! Myself and Sophie yet again shared the wins in the afternoon in C1 which meant we were both in very good positions for the last 2 spots as Mallory Franklin was pre selected from her Bronze at the World Championships last year.
Monday came and I had secured 4 out of 5 wins in the K1 and 3 out of 5 in the C1. I had the opportunity to try out my new Kayak from Pyranha in the afternoon for the Kayak Cross Time Trial and with two lightning-fast runs in the kayak cross it meant I came out onto yet again!
As I stepped off the podium at the end of the day, my mind raced with the possibilities of what was to come this season. The home world championships were coming up in September, on the same course where I had just dominated. The thought of competing on that world stage again, in front of a home crowd, was both exhilarating and daunting. But I am so ready for the challenge. I am looking forward to a busy season tripling up with the first race being under 7 weeks I have time to graft again and get stuck into the projects for the season!
Amazing to have the rest of the GB Peak PS team making the team yet again and showcasing their skills and fight at selections I cannot wait for us to show the world what we got this season!
Photos © Kim Jones
