Paris Olympics 2024: Stuck Between Two Dreams, Kali Wilding Reveals Qualification Difficulties

Regarded as one of the nation’s premier sprint kayakers, Kali Wilding is poised to leave her mark on the Paris Olympics. She will be representing the United States despite her Australian roots. Notably, Wilding holds the esteemed title of “USC Unsung Heroes,” a recognition granted by the University of Southern California (USC), renowned for its illustrious athletic legacy. USC is known for producing national champions and fostering numerous Olympians. Among its distinguished athletes, Kali Wilding stands out in the domain of sprint kayaking.

A 21-year-old junior, Wilding showcases not only her prowess on the water but also her academic dedication. Trained by her mother, Shelley Oates-Wilding, who is an Olympian, her journey started in gymnastics before she shifted to kayaking, as she understood gymnastics is a part of her daily life. As she prepares for the Paris Olympics, Wilding’s journey takes on an intriguing twist, as she’s double majoring at USC.

Kali Wilding’s Olympic pursuit alongside real estate ambitions

In a recent episode of the ‘Dying to Ask’ podcast hosted by Deirdre Fitzpatrick, Kali Wilding and Shelley Oates-Wilding joined in. The conversation delves into the intricacies of their lives, tracing their early beginnings and the path that led them to this momentous quest. However, the dialogue takes an intriguing turn as Kali is prompted with a pivotal question regarding her current standing in the journey towards qualification for the upcoming Olympics. This question arises as she is double majoring in real estate development and business administration while also pursuing Olympic qualification.

In response, Kali unveils her strategic plans, illustrating the arduous yet hopeful path ahead. As she puts it, “So it’ll be a big challenge to qualify.” She articulates the intricate steps involved in the qualification process, highlighting the significance of upcoming competitions, particularly the Pan-American Championships in Florida. With determination in her voice, Kali delineates her aspirations, emphasizing the ultimate goal of securing a coveted spot to compete in the Paris Olympics. But the conversation didn’t stop there only.

Generations of kayaking greatness

Having recently clinched victory in the K-2 sprint kayak event at the U.S. Olympic Canoe Kayak Team Trials held at the CSUS Aquatic Center on Lake Natoma, California, her accolades extend beyond national triumphs. She proudly bears the title of a USA Senior National Sprint Kayaking Team Member for 2021, along with the honor of representing Team USA at the Sprint Kayaking Junior/U23 Worlds in 2019.

Despite her remarkable achievements, Kali remains resolutely focused on her ambitious aspirations, setting her sights on Paris as well as the 2028 Olympics while concurrently pursuing a career in Commercial Real Estate Development. Yet, amidst her individual journey, Kali attributes much of her success to her mother, Shelley, a formidable figure in her own right. As a two-time Olympian for Team Australia and the current U.S. National Coach in canoe-kayak.

During a podcast discussion, Shelley unveils the profound impact of her own life experiences on their shared journey. Reflecting on her past challenges, including a divorce during her children’s high school years, Shelley acknowledges the pivotal role played by her ex-husband in her coaching endeavors, leveraging his expertise as a policeman to guide her toward Olympic success.

Read More: Paris Olympics 2024: Who Is Kali Wilding? Athlete Who Changed Nationalities, All Set to Represent Team USA