2024 Paris Olympic Games: Saya Sakakibara into BMX semis

Saya Sakakibara will lead a three-pronged Aussie charge for gold after rocketing into the BMX racing semifinals at Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines in Paris.

Saya Sakakibara will lead a three-pronged Aussie charge for gold after rocketing into the BMX racing semifinals at Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines in Paris.

Sakakaibara will be joined on the start line by fellow Australian Lauren Reynolds, while in the men’s Izaac Kennedy has also progressed to the Saturday 4am (AEST) semifinal.

Sakakibara’s blistering speed was all too much for her rivals, finishing first in each of her three runs required and advanced as the fastest-qualifier for the semifinals.

Sakakibara’s quest for gold is paved in determination to overcome two sickening concussions, the most significant suffered when crashing at the Tokyo Games 2021.

“I’m very happy,’’ Sakakibara said.

Saya Sakakibara competes during the quarterfinals. Picture: Getty Images

“This year I raced well and I’ve had a great 12-months of racing world cups and it’s more so now about telling myself I can do this.

“If I put my mind to it, I’ll do it.

“I hope (everyone sees me as the one to beat). I like the attention, I like people cheering for me. I wish there were more people cheering for me.’’

Supported in the stands by her parents and brother Kai, who suffered a career-ending brain injury in 2020, Sakakabira was joined in the semifinals by Reynolds.

Saya Sakakibara believes she can bring home gold. Picture: AFP

Reynolds, 33, is in an elite club as a four-time Olympian in Paris. She advanced to the semi finals in ninth position.

“I’m feeling as confident as I ever have in my whole career,’’ Reynolds said.

On the comeback trail from a broken wrist, Kennedy advanced to the semifinals as the sixth fastest qualifier. .

Relive all the action from day six of the Paris Olympics with our blog below

Originally published as 2024 Paris Olympic Games: Saya Sakakibara into BMX semis