F-Teamer Bird’s solo Rio bid
F-Teamer Steve Bird is in Europe training for Rio.
For F-Team paddler Steve Bird, it's his love of being out on the water that keeps him coming back for more as he trains for Rio, his second time at the biggest sporting event in the world.
"I love being able to see things from the water. One of my favourite things to do is find new water to train on, places I never thought I would paddle - whether it's being engulfed by the ocean, a big lake or simply paddling on a new sprint course," he reveals.
Bird qualified for Rio after winning gold in the K1 200m at the 2016 Oceania Championships in February, and at the 2016 national Sprint Championships in March.
"I felt a deep sense of achievement and a huge sense of relief," he says.
At London 2012, Steve competed in the K2 200m event with good friend Jesse Phillips where they placed sixth. In Rio the 28-year-old will go it alone.
F-Teamer Steve Bird wears Tiptonic from Luma Nation
Born in South Africa, Steve started paddling when he was 8-years-old after his uncle left two kayaks in his family's backyard. Steve and his brother would take them out to the dams and rivers on their farm and it was there that he found his love for the sport. Since migrating to Australia in 2007 Steve has been based in Perth with his family who are a great source of inspiration for him.
"My family's unconditional support inspires me every day," he says.
As Rio approaches, Bird has been training in Europe and places huge emphasis on his mental approach to training.
"I've been trying to harness the inspiration from qualifying for Rio. Every day in training, I remind myself of the opportunity that lies before me. I find my body responds well to this attitude."
As for young athletes aspiring to make their dreams come true, Bird insists that everyone's journey must be different in order to be successful.
"Do it your way. The attributes you possess are unique and should be expressed in the way you train and compete."
We can't wait to support Steve on his journey!