Sophie Wilson stars at canoe slalom nationals

Castlereagh’s Sophie Wilson has had a stellar showing at the 2019 Canoe Slalom Junior and Masters National Championships

Castlereagh’s Sophie Wilson has had a stellar showing at the 2019 Canoe Slalom Junior and Masters National Championships, impressing national selectors by taking out the women’s canoe single (C1) and women’s kayak (K1) events.

Sophie credited Olympic and world slalom star and fellow Penrith local Jessica Fox as the inspiration behind her successful campaign.

“She’s a big person to look up to,” Sophie said.

“We have amazing paddlers in Australia and Jess is just out there. But I also wouldn’t be here without the support and work of (Penrith Valley Canoeing coach) Ros Lawrence.”

Sophie Wilson competing in the 2019 Canoe Slalom Junior and Masters National Championships. Source: Paddle Australia

She also paid tribute to the support of her club mates at Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

“We are not that many girls but it’s good that we are all very close together,” she said.

“I just want to try my best and see how I go, do well and have fun too. I’m hoping to make the National Development Squad and maybe the (national) junior team as well.”

Australia’s top slalom stars will head to Penrith next as the Whitewater Stadium hosts the Sydney International Whitewater Festival from Friday, February 15 to Sunday, February 24.