Laura Blakeman

Going into the 2007 season wearing Premier K1W Bib No 2, Olympian Laura Blakeman is currently Stafford and Stone's top paddler. A member of the GB Senior Team, Laura is sponsored by Peak UK. Here is some info about her, gleaned from the Peak UK site where she is featured in their team section.

Discipline: Slalom

Class: Kayak

Hometown: Newcastle-Under-Lyme,Staffordshire

Living Now: Nottingham

Current Boats: Nomad Nucleus

Shaft of choice: Straight

Favourite Paddling Spot: Dutch Water Dreams, Zoetermeer, Holland

Credentials:
2006 European Champs, L'Argentierre - 4th
2005 World Champs, Penrith - 8th (Team Silver)
2004-2006 Consistent World Cup top 10 finishes
2003 World Champs, Augsburg - 12th (1st Qualification, Team Bronze)
2002 World Champs, Bourg - 6th (Team Bronze)
2002 Under 23 Europeans, Bratislalva - 2nd
2000 Olympic Final ? 12th
1997 Junior European Champion

Whats Next... Ambitions / Plans:
World and Olympic Champion.
I'm looking forward to visiting some new places/sites soon: Brazil (Foz d-Iguassu) and China.

Best things about paddling:
Having the opportunity to visit new sites across the world learn new, challenging moves and race top startlines.
The feeling of satisfaction after a good race.

Best Boating Moment:
Racing finals in major races where there is a great atmosphere. 2000 Olympic Final, Sydney and 2002 Bourg Worlds are most memorable so far.

Worst Boating Moment:
Getting stuck swimming in Chapel Falls (Bala) when I was 12.
Missing the Olympic place for the 2004 Olympics.
Capsizing in qualification at the 2006 Prague Worlds and consequently missing the semis. A bad day.

Other Hobbies:
I am interested in Architecture and various aspects of design.
My main hobbies are Photography, Shopping, Hanging out with my boyfriend, Porno.

Ultimate Worldwide Destination:
Sydney, Australia.

Favourite Stuff:
Food: Anything with Sweet Chilli...
Drink: Coffee made in my new Senseo machine!
Music: Placebo, various Indie Rock bands.
Film: Casino Royale, The Devil Wears Prada, Classic Carry on films.
Read: Visual books on Architecture and Design.

Top Tip on Life and Everything:
Its all about enjoyment.

Photo: Laura Blakeman