New Zealand kayaker apologizes for rant at sports officials over funding

WINDSOR, England (AP) — Former world champion kayaker Ben Fouhy apologized Monday for his harsh criticism of New Zealand sports officials following his failure to qualify for the final of the 1,000-meter K-1 at the London Olympics.

Minutes after finishing sixth in his semifinal at Dorney Lake, the outspoken Fouhy said he was "disillusioned" and "disgusted" about the funding he has received from Sport New Zealand as he attempted to add an Olympic gold to the world title he won in 2003.

In an outburst that included expletives, he also complained about being used as a "political pawn."

He said later in the day in a statement on his personal website that he had been caught up "in the heat of the moment."

"I do apologize for my language," the statement read. "I perhaps could have not said some things, but when you are three minutes removed from your Olympic dream being over, it is not the best time to be talking to anyone."

The London Games are expected to be the last international competition for the 33-year-old Fouhy, who held the event's world-best time from 2006 to 2011.

He won a silver medal at the Athens Games in 2004 and placed fourth at the Beijing Olympics four years ago.

Aug 06, 2012 | Categories: Olympic Canoe Kayak, Olympics | Comments Off

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