04-07-2025
Amanzimtoti canoe star goes global
AMANZIMTOTI'S Jimmy Papadopoulos (18) proudly represented SA at the Auronzo International Sprint Regatta in Italy from June 20 to 22, where he competed in the 1000m, 500m, 200m, and 5000m distances.
Also read: Toti canoe champ qualifies for Olympics
On day one, Papadopoulos placed eighth in the K1 1000m B Final and, alongside KZN teammate Sbulelo Ngobese, finished eighth in the K2 1000m A Final. He reached the semi-finals in both K1 and K2 500m events on day two.
Saving his best for last, Papadopoulos powered to eighth in the K1 200m A Final and wrapped up with fifth place in the K2 5000m.
He said it was an honour and a dream come true to be able to wear the SA colours on the world stage. He also said racing overseas against the world's best taught him something.
'I learnt that hard work and dedication are non-negotiable and that every race is a chance to get faster no matter the result,' he said.
His mother, Jolene, said he has made his family, coach, club, school, province, and country immensely proud.
Back home, he has resumed training for the ICF Junior World Championships in Portugal, where he will contest the 200m event from July 23.
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