Ian Mackenzie

Athlete: Canoe/Kayak

I would like to thank Ocean River Sports and Icebreaker for being a part of my successful kayak racing season. It has been a fantastic year on the water - the season began with race wins in Victoria, Comox, Vancouver, Washington and California. Racing through the old redwood forest in Northern California was particularly memorable; giant redwoods down to the bank of the Eel River formed our own 49km wilderness corridor of brown and green, providing a spectacular venue for racing to Fortuna. It was also a race of contrasting accommodation, starting the week camping in the rain, and ending the week staying in the mayor's mansion.

The international circuit began with a reorganized World Cup, as the race in Shanghai was relocated to Denmark due to concerns with the venue; I suspect the International Canoe Federation's racing committee feared for our lungs over a 3 hr race. But the Canadian team arrived in Denmark strong and happy. It was a very popular venue, and I was delighted with my first podium finish, wearing the bronze. The season wrapped up with the World Championships in Hungary. Rains came, the rivers rose and the venue flooded, but the races went on! By race day the sun shone, the river had changed direction, as the Danube backed up into the Raba River. My 6th place is the best finish by a kayaker from the Americas since the World Championships of Canoe/kayak Marathon began in 1988. I finished the season ranked 4th in the world, already excited with thoughts of improving my performance next year.

These summer successes were the result of strong winters' training made more comfortable and effective by Icebreaker clothing. Cold, dark, wet mornings can be difficult to face, but your merino wool gear makes it easier to get on the water, and more pleasant once I'm there! Many thanks for your support and involvement, I look forward to wearing more Icebreaker through the coming winter and into the next paddling season.