Japan hosted the 2025 Asia Pacific Canoe Sprint Cup from May 8 – 11, in an event that saw the Australian team stand out amongst competing nations.
Topping the points table, the Australian team brought home the silverware in an impressive performance by a team with many athletes racing in the green and gold for the first time.
Competing in the Women’s U21 category, Emerson Hardy valued the experience to race against international athletes and soak up the Japanese culture.
“I really enjoyed the regatta, it was a great experience racing internationally in such a close-knit environment,” Hardy said.
“The competition was strong, and although the conditions threw us a few curveballs, everyone adapted well.
“It was really valuable to see where I’m at this late in the season against both Australian and Asia-Pacific athletes.
“I was proud to finish on the podium in all six of my races – while the conditions weren’t ideal for PB’s, I came away confident in the progress of my paddling, which is super motivating heading into next season.
“The biggest highlight was gaining experience in a new race setting alongside a team, most of which I hadn’t met prior to the trip.
“Racing on a different course and immersing myself in Japanese culture, seeing how proud they are of their country was incredibly special.”
In the U21 Men’s competition, Aiden Carberry came up strong against the challenging conditions, soaking up the Japanese atmosphere and sportsmanship.
“Asia Pacific was amazing – it was probably one of the most enjoyable regattas I’ve raced in,” Carberry said.
“It was so much fun, and although the conditions were challenging, it was nothing new to me and the view of the snow capped mountains surrounding the course made it worth it.
“The atmosphere was unreal, all of the countries brought their ‘A game’ which made for some quality racing.
“Results wise I had a decent regatta, standing on the podium for the majority of my events.
“A highlight result for me was placing 2nd in the U21 Men’s K1 1000, with a decent time in a strong and swirly head/cross wind.
“It was also a good opportunity to race some older athletes as it’s my first season out of juniors.
“By far my highlight of Japan was the food!!! It was amazing to try some new foods and take the chance to learn how to race away from home.
“A highlight racing wise was certainly getting to know my competitors, the sportsmanship on display by all countries was superb.”
Congratulations to the entire Australian team on a strong performance – click here for results.