Photo of Evy by Alex Davidson/Getty Images | Photo of Casey Eichfeld by Kevin Voigt/Getty Images
Evy Leibfarth and Casey Eichfeld both advanced to the finals in their respective disciplines as canoe slalom competition began Saturday afternoon at the Olympic Games Paris 2024.
On Saturday, July 27, Evy posted two clean runs in women’s kayak, with her second run score of 93.84 propelling her into fourth place. Australia’s Jessica Fox, a four-time Olympic medalist and reigning Olympic champion in women’s canoe, led the field with a 92.18, followed by Klaudia Zwolinska at 93.03 and Camille Prigent of France scoring 93.25.
After her stellar second run, Evy shared that her expectations for tomorrow hadn’t changed. “The plan is to go out and feel confident, no different from after my first run”.
Saturday’s Heats were Evy’s first time racing in front of such a large and lively crowd. She responded very positively to the crowd’s encouragement and will be sure to see another packed stadium today for the Women’s Kayak Single Semifinals and Finals.
Evy will race next on Sunday, July 28 at 9:30am ET/3:30pm CET. The 12 fastest will qualify for the Women’s Kayak Single Final which will take place a few hours later in the day at 11:45am ET/5:45pm CET.
Casey’s second-run score of 94.69 included a two-second penalty, slotting him into 10th position. Nicolas Gestin of France sits atop the leader board with a best run score of 88.78, the only paddler to post a sub-90 score. Adam Burgess of Great Britain is second at 90.87, while Matija Marinic is third with a 91.61.
Casey was showing a lot of speed on the course for his first two races on Saturday. “This is the least nervous I have felt coming into an Olympic race,” Casey remarked off the water after his second run. His experience from his first three Olympic Games have opened Paris 2024 up to be the most fun yet.
Casey will next compete on Monday, July 29 at 9:30am ET/3:30pm CET with the 12 fastest qualifying for the Final. The Men’s Canoe Single Final will take place later that day at 11:20am ET/5:20 CET.
Ways to watch Casey and Evy race live on NBC and Peacock:
- Download the Peacock app and subscribe for $7.99/month with ads or for $13.99/month without ads
- If you already pay for a cable TV subscription, simply login to NBCOlympics.com or NBC.com
- Those with cable may also download the NBC app or the NBC Olympics app with your account information and stream on your phone, tablet, or TV
Every event will be streamed live in addition to highlights, replays, and more! Be sure to check the NBC canoe/kayak events schedule for streaming times.
For more, view the Paris 2024 Olympic Canoe Slalom Schedule & Results