Canoeing: Just two to represent NZ at Games

1.00pm

World champion Ben Fouhy and Steven Ferguson will represent New Zealand in canoeing at the Olympic Games in Greece next month.

The New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC) in conjunction with Canoeing New Zealand today confirmed the two athletes for the Games in Athens.

Fouhy thrust himself into the spotlight last year when he won the K1 1000m world title and then teamed with Ferguson to finish fourth in the K2 1000m event.

Ferguson is already an Olympian. He was a member of the swimming team at Sydney in 2000 before turning his attention to canoeing.

He also finished fourth in the K1 1000m event at last year's world championships.

His father Ian Ferguson, who will coach the side in Athens, represented New Zealand in canoeing at five Olympic Games from 1976 to 1992, winning five Olympic medals, including four gold.

NZOC secretary general Barry Maister said the team might be small in number but they packed a punch.

"While there may only be two athletes selected today for Athens, both Ben and Steven have proved they can match it with the world's best paddlers. I am sure they will perform with great distinction at Athens."

Only the men's basketball team, showjumping, extra track and field athletes and swimming relay teams have yet to be confirmed.

Canoeing team: Ben Fouhy in the K1 1000m and K2 1000m, Steven Ferguson in the K2 1000m.

- NZPA