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Canoeing: Louise Donington retires

October 14, 2024
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GB’s Canoe Slalom World and European Championship winning team member Louise Donington has called time on her competitive career. But the 28 year old will not be moving far from the sport as she now looks to help develop the country’s up-and-coming slalom stars as an England Talent Coach.

“My results may have been even better if I knew as a junior what I know now,” she said. “Thanks to the pathway developed by GB Canoeing we are now in a position to pass on this knowledge, encouraging young athletes into good habits in preparation for a successful senior racing career.

“It is no surprise that as my competitive career comes to an end I am keen to stay within the sport that has given me so much. I’m excited for future generations and the high-level performance they could achieve.

“Being a part of someone’s journey and inspiring them to do things they never thought they were capable of is what excites me for a future in coaching.”

Looking back on a fantastic career, which saw her team up with Lizzie Neave and Laura Blakeman for canoe slalom K1 team World and European gold, she added, “Canoe slalom is wild, unpredictable with endless possibilities.

“For 20 years I have loved the feeling of the boat gliding across the water and the physical and mental challenge of continuously learning and developing skills.

“Representing my country at World Championships, European Championships and World Cup races at junior, Under-23 and senior levels has been a privilege. And if I could sum up my experiences in just a few words, I would say it has been challenging, rewarding and thoroughly enjoyable.”

Good luck Louise in helping to find our future GB gold medal canoeists!

Lizzie Flint, Sportsister
The Women’s Sports Magazine

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