Sammy Lourey, a 19-year-old kayaker with the Western Australian Institute of Sport (WAIS), is making waves as an emerging athlete with Olympic aspirations. Her journey into kayaking began four years ago, emerging from a background in swimming and surf life-saving, where she encountered the surf ski—a sport similar to kayaking but performed in ocean waters. Initially struggling and demotivated, her coach encouraged her to try out for kayaking. Discovering a passion for the sport, Lourey now dedicates herself to kayaking full time and won a national title in her first attempt.
Lourey is currently undergoing rigorous training, including tests like the VO2 max, which measures cardiovascular and muscular endurance. Under the guidance of WAIS canoeing head coach Ramon Andersson, Lourey’s talent and persistence have become apparent. Andersson noted that while Lourey did not initially display innate kayaking talent, her grit and perseverance indicated her potential.
The Australian Institute of Sport recently conducted talent identification days nationwide, helping to unearth future Olympians by testing young athletes’ physical abilities. Lourey’s rapid progress from surf life-saving to kayaking typifies the pathway these programs can provide, as hopefuls are vetted for potential across various sports disciplines.
Andersson believes Lourey is on a promising trajectory for Olympic contention, possibly eyeing the 2028 Los Angeles Games or the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane. While aspiring to reach the highest sporting stage, Lourey maintains a focus on personal growth, emphasizing enjoyment and achieving her full potential in the sport.
