JCB-sponsored slalom canoeist Adam Burgess has the digger giant’s congratulations ringing in his ears after he was today confirmed as a competitor in Paris next summer.
Staffordshire-born Adam, 31, started canoeing on the River Trent in his home town of Stone, Staffordshire with the Stafford, and Stone Canoe Club when he was aged just 10. He realised his boyhood dream of competing in the Tokyo games in 2021 – missing out on a bronze medal by 0.16 of a second.
Now the talented athlete has the opportunity to make up for his near miss after being named in the squad which will compete in Paris next year.
I am thrilled Adam has made the team. There was a real sense of excitement when he competed in Tokyo and I know the whole JCB team will be behind him in Paris next year.
Lord Bamford | JCB Chairman
Adam, who has been competing internationally for Great Britain and winning medals since the age of 14, said today: “I’m very proud to have the continued support from JCB. It allows me to keep my focus completely on the path ahead to Paris. Not only will I get the best-quality equipment, but I will be able to devote all my time to training and maximising my recovery, as I don’t have to worry about working another job, just on bettering myself from the last games.
“Beyond this, when I am in the final stages of my run, I will be able to find that extra bit of power, knowing I have the JCB workforce supporting me. I am looking forward to the journey ahead, feeling calm, confident, and free.”
Adam, who has been backed by JCB since 2020, is currently based at Lee Valley White Water Centre, in Hertfordshire, to maximise his training time. He does, however, come home regularly to see his family in Stone, remaining close to his Staffordshire roots.
Adam added: “I like to stay close to my bases and I travel home regularly. As a matter of fact, I was at my mum’s house in Stone when I received the news about Paris. I firmly believe that it was the work I put in on the River Trent which has made me so fast across the water, because the lack of current meant it was like paddling through treacle!
“Next year, there is only one thing in my sights: the top spot in Paris. As a rule, not much is changing on the training plan, it’s just about the fine detail. We are scouring current data and videos, analysing what small changes we can make to try and secure that top spot. I am very excited for Paris. While it can be said I have been here before, this time will be a different experience as my family and friends will be able to come and watch me live, which will be a surreal experience!”