Staffordshire Canoeist Joe Clarke claims British title

The Rio 2016 gold medallist proved too hot for the competition in the men’s K1 event at London’s Lee Valley.

Clarke completed a clean run of the course in a time of 91.58 seconds, more than five-and-a-half seconds quicker than GB team-mate Bradley Forbes Cryans, who finished in second place.

It was a timely performance from the 24-year-old who will now turn his attentions to the World Championships, the season’s final major event, which take place later this month in Pau, France.

Clarke, who got his first taste of the sport aged eight at Stafford and Stone Canoe Club, will go up against the rest of the world’s top canoeists as he bids for glory.

The action gets underway a week today, with Clarke due to take part in both the individual and team events.