Olympics 2024: Who is Finn Butcher? New Zealand’s latest gold medal winner

Alexandra’s Finn Butcher became New Zealand’s latest golden hero with victory in the kayak cross at the Paris Olympics.

Butcher produced the paddle of his life to lead the field from start to finish in what was a flawless performance from the Kiwi, becoming the first ever Olympic champion in the men’s canoe slalom cross event.

Butcher is the first Kiwi man to win gold in an individual sport since Mahe Drysdale in the men’s single sculls at the Rio Games in 2016.

The 29-year-old grew up in Central Otago and began paddling at age 9 at a “have a go” day on a local river and immediately fell in love with the sport, developing into an elite athlete over the years.

Butcher was the New Zealand K1 reserve for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and has continued to improve his ability and world ranking since then.

At the 2023 World Championships, he gained the Olympic quota spot for New Zealand, finishing 13th in K1 and 11th in Kayak Cross.

“I had lane three which probably wouldn’t be the one I’d choose first but they had a bit of a tangle on the inside and I just took advantage and sent it straight. Worked out in my favour I suppose,” Butcher said on his gold medal ride to Sky Sports.

He was thankful for all his support group.

“It was insane to be down there. To have that crew here has been unbelievable. Back home I’ve had so many messages from people saying they’re watching and supporting and that our sport is freaken awesome. It’s insane.”

“I dreamt a lot about it.”

Finn Butcher celebrates crossing the finish line first and claiming gold in the men's canoe slalom cross at the Paris Olympics. Photo / Photosport

Finn Butcher of New Zealand, second left, in the Canoe Slalom cross heats. Photo / Photosport

“It’s pretty special for me,” said Butcher when first selected for the Olympics.

“It’s going to be amazing to go to the Olympics and represent my community and all the people who’ve helped me on my journey.”

Finn Butcher pays tribute to late mentor

Talking to Sky Sport after winning gold, Butcher paid tribute to his mentor Alan ‘Sarge’ Hoffman who passed away in 2022.

“Shout out to the big man Sarge. Who’s not with us anymore. Huge mentor. Just an all-round great Kiwi. The kindest heart and cared so much about everyone and would do anything for you. I owe him a lot.”

Hear it as it happens with live commentary of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on GOLD SPORT & iHeartRadio, plus comprehensive coverage on Newstalk ZB.