Jessica Fox has written herself into the history books after winning a Gold Medal in the K1 at the Paris Olympics this morning.
It was an incredible performance from the Penrith paddler, who was the eighth fastest qualifier for the Final.
But just when it appeared her dream may have been shattered, Fox produced a stunning run of 96.08 seconds.
“Come on Jess, let’s go!” declared her father Richard in commentary for Channel Nine as she made her way through the course.
She then had to wait nervously as her fiercest competitors took to the water, all trying to catch the impressive time.
German Ricarda Funk, the defending champion, was the final competitor and made a stunning start before copping a crucial penalty that robbed her of a medal.
Klaudia Zwolińska from Poland finished with the Silver Medal, while Kimberley Woods from Great Britain on the Bronze.
A visibly emotional Fox raised her hands to her face as the shock of winning Gold in her pet event settled in.
“That was the most incredible moment I think of my life,” Fox told Channel Nine.
It is Fox’s fifth Olympic Medal and her second Gold. It is the first time she has won the Gold in K1.
The medal ceremony was held a short time ago with Fox struggling to hold back tears as the national anthem played.
The 30-year-old could still win two more medals at the Games – she will compete in the C1 and Kayak Cross later in the week.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.