National Team Trials by Kai Choe

National Team Trials is an event held each year at the Olympic Basin to select the Canadian national team. This year was my first year attending trials and it was such an incredible experience.  The ability to line up next to some of the best girls in the country and world is something I am so grateful for.  

I was quite nervous going into trials, not because I was worried about results but because I wanted to come out of the regatta feeling like I had done my best.  The atmosphere of National Team Trials is unlike anything I have ever experienced before as there are so many talented athletes present, including Olympians, the event is also extremely competitive and there were times where 9 girls would finish in the same second.  

Overall I exceeded my expectations of what I could do, it was incredible to see my hard work in training pay off and lead to many personal bests and my first medal at the national stage in the U18 women’s 5k. I think I have learned a lot from this experience and am proud of what went well and grateful for the insight of what I need to improve on. When I first attended a Calgary Canoe Club summer camp at age 10 I had no idea it would become such a huge part of my life and identity and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I am so lucky to be a part of this incredible team!