Finn Butcher made an impressive Olympic debut in the men's canoe slalom, showcasing his talent and determination in a highly competitive field. The 29-year-old, in his first Olympic appearance, delivered a strong performance, finishing 19th with a total time of 146.40. Despite narrowly missing the final, Butcher's effort and skill did not go unnoticed.

During his run, Butcher encountered a few minor penalties that added to his total time, but a 50 on gate 15 surprising both him and his supporters. Initially celebrating his run, he later expressed his surprise at the penalties.

"It didn’t feel like it from where I was, but they’ve got a few camera angles and can slow down the action,” Butcher explained. Reflecting on the outcome, he added, “I’m pretty gutted to bow out of the competition in that manner, but that’s sport. It’s often decided by just a few millimetres.”

Despite the disappointment, Butcher remained philosophical and proud of his Olympic experience. “It was awesome to be racing with the best in the world. It was always my dream as a kid, and as an adult, to get to the Olympics.”

The sport of canoe slalom in New Zealand is immensely proud of Butcher’s performance and his representation on the Olympic stage. His dedication and skill have garnered admiration, and his near-qualification underscores the razor-thin margins that characterize elite-level competition.

Article added: Friday 02 August 2024