Kiwi Mike Dawson reflected on a job well done as he qualified for the semifinals of K1 canoe slalom after two fast runs on the spectacular man-made course in north London.
For the Dawsons of Tauranga, the event is a family affair. For Mike is not just be trying toimpress his father, who coaches him, or his brother and sister, who have been watching in the crowd. He also has to ensure he doesn't incur the disapproval of his mother, Kay, who is one of the judges
The idea may strike some as a little unfair but the New Zealand Canoe Federation are eager to stress there's no scope for special treatment. And Kay Dawson's decisions are scrutinised by other officials.
Mike was thrilled with his performance, saying: "I am ranked 50th in the world and here I am sitting eighth at the Olympics."
Indeed, had he not touched two gates on his first run he would've been second fastest. His first time was re-adjusted to 90.90sec but the time that counted was his clean second run, which was adjusted to 88.88sec.
