Lisa Carrington Aims to Expand Olympic Medal Haul at Paris 2024

Lisa Carrington, New Zealand's most decorated Olympian, has her sights set on adding to her record medal tally at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The 34-year-old canoe sprint champion has been named in New Zealand's largest-ever women's canoe sprint team for the upcoming Games, where she will defend her K1 500m, K2 500m, and K4 500m titles.

Carrington's Olympic achievements are unmatched in New Zealand sports history. She has won five gold medals and one bronze across her Olympic career, making her the country's most successful Olympian. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Carrington claimed three gold medals, solidifying her status as a dominant force in the sport.

Why this matters: Lisa Carrington's pursuit of more Olympic glory in Paris is not only a personal quest but also a source of national pride for New Zealand. Her success on the world stage has elevated the profile of canoeing in the country and inspired a new generation of athletes to follow in her footsteps.

While the K1 200m event, in which Carrington won gold at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, has been dropped from the Paris program, the canoe sprint star is not ruling out the possibility of expanding her medal haul in other events. "I'm not limiting myself," Carrington said, acknowledging the pressure that comes with her success but remaining focused on her goals.

Joining Carrington on the New Zealand team is debutant Lucy Matehaere, who will be competing in her first Olympic Games. Matehaere, who has been dreaming of this moment for nine years, will partner with Rio 2016 Olympian Aimee Fisher in the K2 500 event. "Lisa has been an amazing role model," Matehaere said, noting the advice Carrington has given her to "be confident and represent everyone from home."

The canoe sprint events at the Paris Olympics will take place from August 6 to August 10, 2024. Carrington, who will be competing in her fourth Olympics, expressed her gratitude and sense of privilege to be part of the New Zealand team once again. While she has not ruled out the possibility of competing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, her immediate focus remains on the challenges and opportunities that await her in Paris.

Key Takeaways

• Lisa Carrington, NZ's most decorated Olympian, aims for more medals in Paris 2024.
• Carrington has won 5 gold and 1 bronze medals across her Olympic career.
• Carrington's success has elevated canoeing's profile in NZ and inspired new athletes.
• Debutant Lucy Matehaere will partner with Aimee Fisher in the K2 500 event.
• Carrington is grateful to represent NZ again and may compete at 2028 LA Olympics.