Noosa Everglades kayaking expert Vivienne Golding competed alongside former Olympians at the World Masters Games 2017 in Auckland this week, winning gold in both the over 50s C1 (single canoe) Slalom and C1 Team Event.
Over 27,000 participants come together from all over the globe to compete across 28 sports at The World Masters Games, the largest multi-sport event in the world.
The Slalom events were hosted at Vector Wero Park, the first purpose built white-water park in New Zealand.
It’s a challenging 400 metre grade 3/4 course, but Vivienne was well prepared for the tough competition.
Despite not competing at national level since 2009, Vivienne’s work as owner/guide of Noosa Everglades sustainable tour operator Kanu Kapers has enabled her to keep her strokes up and maintain a high level of fitness.
“Even though the calm waters of the Everglades river system can’t really compare to the challenge of the grade 3/4 rapids in New Zealand, it means that I get to paddle every day,” she said.
“I came to Auckland to do the best I could and catch up with old team mates and friends again. I’m absolutely thrilled at getting not just one but two gold medals. I’m having a blast as they say here in New Zealand!’
Vivienne’s passion for kayaking and canoeing developed from her love of nature and experiencing it in tranquillity.
So when she ceased competing for Australia in the late 1980s, instead of choosing to coach, Vivienne decided to become an instructor and guide.
She now guides tours in to the Noosa Everglades wilderness and is a passionate advocate for preserving its pristine ancient waterways.
