Canoeist eyes up gold in Olympic slalom

Published: 17 December, 2010

A TEENAGE canoeist has been buoyed by a £2,000 grant to help him achieve his dream of competing in the Olympics.

George Durden, from Finsbury, has been given SportIslington’s largest grant to help towards the cost of training and competing in canoe slalom.

The 17-year-old first became interested in the sport after joining Islington Boat Club while a pupil at Moreland Primary School in Finsbury.

Now a student at London Nautical College in Blackfriars, George has remained committed to the sport and trains in Shepperton on the River Thames every day.

George has his sights set on a place in the Olympics and the teenager says the grant he has been given by SportIslington, a voluntary organisation funded by Islington Council and the Joanna Brown Trust, a charity set up in memory of a sports enthusiast from Highbury, will help him on his way.

“This grant has opened doors which otherwise would have been impossible to open,” he said. “London 2012 is a possibility, however my true sights are set on 2016 when I will be at my peak level.”  

Also benefiting from the Joanna Brown Trust’s support is gymnast Aasha Kimpton who received the SportIslington grant last year and is set to receive further funding because of the commitment she has shown.

Richard Brown of the Joanna Brown Trust, said: “We’re delighted to be continuing our support of young athletes in the local area. 

“The aim of The Joanna Brown Trust is to encourage involvement in sport, to provide people with an opportunity to experience and excel in sport. 

“Jo lived in Islington and always strived to be the best she possibly could and it gives us great satisfaction that we can continue to support talented young athletes in her name and give them the support they need to succeed.”  

• George is pictured (above) with Richard Brown