Jessica Fox winner of the ‘Academy Award’

Video interview: Marion Buk-Kluger | Writer: Tom Collings | Video production: Gijs Takken

Canoe and kayak slalom star Jessica Fox was recognised for her historic performances during the past 12 months by winning the Academy Award for outstanding achievement at the inaugural World Paddle Awards in Augsburg, Germany on Saturday.

“It has been an incredible night and it is really a big honour for me to win this”, Fox said.

Fox was also nominated for Sportswoman of the Year, which was won by German Freya Hoffmeister.

Her two nominations were testament to the stellar performances she produced last year and the 2015 season she has had to date.

Fox recently defended her K1 title at the ICF slalom under-23 World Championships in Brazil.

When added to her impressive medal collection which includes gold in the K1 and C1 at the senior and under-23 World Championships last year, and an Olympic silver in London, It is often easy to forget she is still a month out from celebrating her 21st birthday.

In her recent trip to Brazil Fox described it as a ‘great learning experience’. Her ability to adapt and deliver under pressure should give her confidence as she chases a dream berth at the Rio Olympics next year.

Fox admits she is still figuring out the best way to race in a final and learning how to deal with expectations as well.

When she reflects on her journey to where she is at today, it is evident that the London Olympics were the making of her as an athlete.

“I became a different athlete, I was more confident, I learnt a lot and improved physically, mentally and technically as well, so last year to do what I did at Deep Creek was historical and for me it meant a lot because I proved to myself I could do both events”, Fox said.
Off the water Fox is also a success and is regularly supporting charitable and community based events in her spare time.

Having been born into a slalom family, Fox has experienced first-hand the true beauty of paddling and has developed an affinity for the paddlesports community.

Whether it be in slalom or just on a lake, Fox highlights that there are many different ways people can get involved in paddle sports and encourages you all to give it a go.

“It is a wonderful way to see the world, make new friends, have fun and get active,” Fox said.

Fox will contest the first ICF slalom World Cup from 19 to 21 June.