Même si la piste n'est pas à son goût, elle garde un appétit puissant.

Benjamin Savšek, the Slovenian canoeist who has already claimed multiple European titles and two world championship victories, continues to chase his biggest goal yet, success at the World Championships in Oklahoma. Despite not being entirely satisfied with his start to the season, Savšek remains confident he can achieve top results at the competition, which began yesterday. The 39-year-old Ljubljana native expressed hope that his experience will help him reach new heights, even though the course in the United States did not quite match his taste. Savšek described the course as too narrow and the plastic obstacles placed along it as overly spaced out, calling them “pretoo spread out” in his home country’s terms. He acknowledged that while the conditions were not ideal, he still felt positive about the upcoming races. The World Championships, held in Oklahoma, serve as a crucial step toward the Olympic Games in Los Angeles 2028, which will mark the next major milestone in Savšek's career. He emphasized that each race matters greatly, especially since this event marks the beginning of qualification for the Olympics. The Slovenian team faced mixed results during the opening day of the championships. In the individual kayak cross event, Eva Alina Hočevar finished in 51st place, marking her highest achievement among the national athletes. Lea Novak came in 60th, while Žiga Lin Hočevar concluded the race in 70th position. These placements highlight the challenges faced by the Slovenian squad against stronger international competitors. Australian Jessica Fox and British athlete Joseph Clarke took the gold medals, showcasing the high level of competition present at the event. Savšek, known for his consistency and skill over many years, remains one of the top canoeists in the world. His performance at the World Championships could play a key role in securing his spot in the final stages of the competition. He plans to compete fiercely in every race, aiming for a strong finish that would set the stage for future success. With the Olympics just two years away, Savšek views this event as a critical opportunity to build momentum and gain valuable experience. The World Championships in Oklahoma have drawn some of the best canoeists from around the globe, creating a highly competitive environment. For Savšek, the challenge lies not only in achieving personal goals but also in contributing to Slovenia’s overall standing in the sport. His determination and past achievements suggest he is well-prepared for the demands of the competition. As the event progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how Savšek adapts to the conditions and whether he can deliver the kind of performance that has defined his career thus far. With the qualification process for the 2028 Olympics starting here, the outcome of these races will carry significant weight. Savšek’s ability to perform under pressure and maintain focus will be tested throughout the tournament. Whether he achieves his ambitions or not, his participation underscores the ongoing pursuit of excellence in Slovenian canoeing. The coming days will reveal how he navigates the challenges ahead and whether he can continue to push the boundaries of his capabilities.