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Walsh: making waves in Beijing
David Florence and Campbell Walsh both progressed to the the semi-finals of their respective events at the Shunyi Rowing-Canoeing Park, near Beijing, on Monday evening.
Florence, in the canoe, and Walsh, in the single kayak slalom, came through two runs of heats to keep their medal hopes alive.
Florence's second run of 89.47 seconds was the second quickest time of the day and sent him through as the third fastest qualifier.
"It's great to have a good run," said Florence. "I'm pretty confident for (the semi-final) tomorrow (Tuesday) now.
"My first run didn't go to plan, but I was much stronger the second time around.
"It's quite a straightforward course but on the first run I took three massive hits on the big waves and it cost me time."
Balancing act
In the kayak, Walsh qualified ninth fastest overall, following his first run of 84.72s, plus a two second penalty, with a time of 85.72s.
"I paddled really well and I was shocked to be in 14th place after the first run," he said.
"I definitely think that if I paddle well I can go on and get a medal.
"In the semi-finals it's a case of giving it your all but not doing anything silly. It's a balancing act, as trying anything too risky will blow it."
With the slalom organisers set to re-arrange the course before the semi-final, Florence and Walsh face a whole new set of challenges on Tuesday.
"It will be much more technical, and it's already very hard water," added Florence.
"Tomorrow it is likely to be even harder."
