::OLYMPIC SILVER MEDAL::

The Olympics of 2008 have very likely taught me more about myself as an athlete, and why I'm an athlete, than any other experience of my life. A great friend told me yesterday: "Our time in the valleys helps us truly appreciate the views from the mountain tops", so I'm fortunate and grateful for two things, above all else... I have had some really great mountaintop views throughout my career, and there are more to come - because nothing helps me appreciate victory, more than failure. All of that aside, I am not disappointed with my performance here in Beijing. I am proud of my Olympic silver medal, it was tough to bounce back and rise from the ashes after the 1000m - but I managed to pull off a pretty good race in the five despite feeling like I got hit by a train the day before.

The Olympics are really tough, they've got to be. Olympic medals are not boyscout badges or participation ribbons, they're Olympic medals. I cherish mine with pride and distinction as a representation that I work really hard, believe in myself, and love and respect my sport above all else. Sharing the podium with guys like Tim Brabants, Ken Wallace and Eirik Veras Larsen is an honour, and a privilege... all of us are Olympic Champions, and we're great friends. Per Aquas ad Fraternatum indeed, gentlemen!

Instead of taking a break from my kayak, I'm heading out to Dartmouth, NS to race it around on Lake Banook for a few days, at the Canadian National Championships. I'm stoked to see everyone, share stories and hang out for a couple days... and it'll be super awesome to be back in Canada.

See you in Dartmouth!
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