Champion kayaker Adam van Koeverden first captured the world’s attention at the 2004 Olympic Games, where he was a double medalist with gold and bronze victories. Since then, he has continued to dominate the sport, taking silver at both the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Games, earning two World Championship titles in 2007 and 2011, and being named “Canada’s Athlete of the Year” in 2012. Adam shares his story of personal success—infusing it with insight that he’s gained both on the water and off—and how it integrates with strong leadership, overcoming challenges, and the importance of teamwork.

This weekend, the staff at Speakers’ Spotlight, along with Canadians across the country, will be crossing their fingers as Adam races in both the K1 1000 metres and the K1 500 metres finals at the International Canoe (and kayak) Federation World Championships in Moscow this weekend. Above, Adam talks about his performance at the championships so far.

Good luck, Adam!