Kretschmer rows for canoeing in Dresden

On Wednesday morning, Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer joined Olympic canoeing champion Tom Liebscher in a two-man kayak for a spin on the Elbe in Dresden. "He leads the way, was immediately on fire and really gave it power," the exceptional athlete told the German Press Agency about the unaccustomed pillion passenger. It was "an honor" for him as a canoe racer that Saxony's head of government took the time "and got on the boat with me". They wanted to draw attention to the Summer Olympics in Paris and "this beautiful" sport, which is not often in the spotlight, also with a view to the next generation.

"That was a great start to the day: a round of canoeing with Tom Liebscher, who will represent Saxony at the Olympic Games," Kretschmer posted on Facebook afterwards. He had no doubt that Liebscher would be on the Olympic podium in August. "Fingers crossed for Tom in the summer!" Sport is "the glue of society", where values are conveyed that strengthen the community, he wrote. "Saxony is a talent factory for excellent athletes; their international successes are a figurehead for our sporting landscape."

Kretschmer has talent and potential, Liebscher attested to the busy CDU politician. He had already had many amateurs on board, "but never someone with so much energy". Kretschmer has the necessary feeling "and the courage" for it. So they were able to have a relaxed chat as they paddled from Liebscher's home club, Kanu Club Dresden, towards the Blue Wonder, Dresden's famous Elbe bridge, and back - about technique and tips, as Liebscher reported.

The Dresden native is a double Olympic champion and multiple world and European champion - and wants to win his third title at the Games in Paris. He is also training for this in familiar waters. "I do half of my training kilometers on the Elbe," he said. After winning the world title in 2023, his four-man kayak will be the favorite at the start in Paris - and they want to "take home the best medal if possible," said Liebscher.