Eve Trickey is in training for the national championships but she is dreaming of a spot on the Australian canoe marathon team.
By Tania Martin
DREAMS of Olympic glory are pushing kayaker Eve Trickey, 19, to aim high at the National Marathon Canoe Championships next month.
But this rising star faces an uphill battle as she calls for sponsorship to cover the cost of a new kayak.
Trickey has ordered a new lighter model kayak as she prepares for the upcoming nationals.
But kayak’s don’t come cheap and she is facing a $5,300 bill and is hoping to gain sponsorship.
However, Trickey has not had to look far for help as her local community has dug deep to help with the cost of her new and improved kayak.
Vibe Health and Fitness Centre in Emerald where Trickey works out thrice a week, has donated $300 towards the new kayak and also offered her six months free gym membership.
“It’s fantastic and has come at the time when I was wondering where I was going to get the money for my membership renewal,” Trickey said.
Despite needing sponsorship, she will be using her new kayak at the nationals in March whether she gains sponsorship or not.
She said the new kayak would be a lot lighter with a clear carbon hull and hopes it will lead her to bigger and better things – the world championships.
Trickey fell in love with canoeing when she was just 13 and has never looked back.
She was part of the Beaconhills College kayak team for five years and still remains a part of the team as a junior coach.
Trickey has also participated in the Murray Marathon, a world-renowned fun-run race, seven times.
She is not only aiming for a win at the nationals but hopes to be chosen for the Under 22 Australia team next year in a bid to reach the World Championships.
Trickey trains most nights at Aura Vale Lake, near Clematis, practising her paddling techniques.
She also works out at the gym every second day, working on her muscle and cardio fitness.
Trickey’s ultimate dream is to make it to the Olympic Games one day but for now she is concentrating on making the Australian team.
Anyone who wants to sponsor this rising star can contact her on 0404 440 340.
