In celebration of this summer time’s video games, we’re spotlighting an ExpertVoice member with a powerful Olympic profession. Peter Newton’s journey in kayaking has taken him from the waters of Oahu to the world stage of the Olympics. We had the pleasure of catching up with Peter to study extra about his path to the Olympics, his experiences on the world stage, and his ongoing dedication to the outdoor neighborhood via his work at REI.
How did you get began in kayaking?
I grew up on Oahu and was all the time in or across the water doing numerous actions corresponding to browsing and swimming. After highschool, I joined the native canoe membership, Hui Nalu, and began outrigger canoe paddling. I cherished the whole lot about paddling and raced as a lot as I might. Whereas on the canoe membership, I used to be launched to open ocean kayak racing after which to Olympic Dash Kayaking. As soon as I obtained into an Olympic racing kayak, I used to be hooked.
Are you able to share your expertise of qualifying for the Olympics for the primary time?
The primary time I certified for the Olympics was superb. I had simply turned 22 and was racing in opposition to the highest kayakers within the nation and the world. I used to be nervous however excited and bear in mind placing my head down and the subsequent factor I knew I’m throughout the road and had certified for the group. I got here in 2nd place within the 500-meter singles and fifth place within the 1000-meter singles.
What was it like competing at three Olympic Video games and being a part of the worldwide sports activities neighborhood?
Being a part of the worldwide sports activities neighborhood and competing in three Olympics was unbelievable. Getting to coach and race with opponents from internationally is an expertise I’ll always remember. I really like the values of the Olympics: excellence, respect, and friendship. Past the competitors, I grew to become good buddies with many worldwide paddlers and loved visiting their properties, assembly their households, and seeing their nations.
What’s your favourite half about being out on the water?
I really like the sensation of being on the water, it refreshes me. I cease eager about the rest and simply concentrate on shifting my boat ahead.
What gear has helped you obtain your stage of success? Any particular manufacturers or merchandise which have been staples?
Apart from my boat and paddle, the gear that helped me essentially the most was PowerBars and Oakley sun shades.
What has your expertise been like working with REI, and what do you’re keen on about being a part of a mission-driven, outdoor-focused group?
I take pleasure in working at REI as a result of I relate to the values of the corporate. I’m a believer in the advantages of the outside and the way vital it’s for all of us. REI’s mission is to encourage, educate, and equip individuals for a lifetime of outside journey and stewardship.
Why do you assume it’s vital for elite athletes to have shut connections with the manufacturers that construct their gear?
I believe elite athletes want to have the ability to belief in manufacturers and the gear they use. It’s vital to know the way the gear is made, and the care corporations put into their merchandise and the setting.
What recommendation would you give to athletes at any stage who’re striving to realize their targets and enhance of their sport?
Work exhausting, be constant, benefit from the second, have a plan and observe it.
What’s been the spotlight of your expertise utilizing ExpertVoice?
The wonderful thing about ExpertVoice is the number of merchandise and corporations. It’s additionally very easy to buy from.
We love having elite athletes like Peter represented on the ExpertVoice platform. Trying to join with passionate people in your business, get reliable product suggestions and rating unique reductions? Go to ExpertVoice.com to see when you qualify.
Already a member? Take a look at our collection of offers impressed by this summer time’s video games right here.
