Hayley Nixon claims ICF canoe ocean racing world championship in Hong Kong

Nixon secures maiden ICF Canoe Ocean Racing world title

South Africa's Hayley Nixon has achieved a significant milestone, becoming the third ICF Canoe Ocean Racing world champion in as many events. She skillfully navigated the unexpectedly calm waters of Hong Kong to clinch an impressive victory.

Nixon established her lead early, taking control after the initial turn and never relinquishing it. She successfully fended off an early challenge from New Zealand's Teneale Hatton and later withstood a strong push from her South African teammate, Michelle Burn.

An emotional Nixon shared her feelings post-race: "World champion – I think I’m going to cry. I’ve been waiting to hear that all my life. It sounds amazing." She emphasized the constant mental effort required, stating, "I had to talk to myself quite a lot. There was never room for complacency. I was looking over my shoulder every 200 metres."

Despite her exhaustion, Nixon expressed immense pride in her achievement, particularly finishing alongside a former world champion and Michelle Burn, who was a strong contender. The race itself transformed into a grueling marathon due to the unusually flat and still conditions, a stark contrast to the more challenging weather experienced in Hong Kong earlier in the week.

Rowing background proves advantageous

Nixon, who transitioned to ocean racing from a rowing background, admitted she would typically prefer more demanding conditions. However, the calm water ultimately played to her strengths.

• She noted that many competitors from surf lifesaving backgrounds excel in "runs" (waves), where they are most efficient.
• Conversely, Nixon finds her efficiency in "long and hard" races, stating, "For me, the harder the better. That’s where I really get to thrive."

She largely credits her decade-long career in rowing for her exceptional conditioning and endurance. "I owe a...

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