Danish kayak queen drops dream of Olympic javelin throw

Danish sports star Emma Aastrand, renowned for her achievements in kayaking, has decided to set aside her dream of competing in javelin at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The 30-year-old athlete, who previously won a bronze medal in single kayak at the 2024 Olympics, making it her fourth Olympic medal, has shifted her focus.

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I've actually put javelin on hold. I could feel before I left that I was in a phase of consideration about what I want with my life.

Aastrand revealed her decision stemmed from her participation in the reality television show 'Robinson Ekspeditionen.' Upon returning from the show, she realized a strong desire for a more conventional life. "I can really like taking part in festivals, drinking beer in the afternoon sun and just being Emma," she told Alt for Damerne.

After concluding her kayaking career later in 2024, Aastrand initially aimed to excel in javelin, with the 2028 Games as her target. However, this plan has now been dropped. Her current athletic pursuit involves training for the Ironman competition in Copenhagen next year, emphasizing her goal is participation rather than winning.

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I found out when I got home from Robinson that I enormously want to be an ordinary person.

Aastrand's journey reflects a personal reevaluation of priorities, moving from elite competition in multiple disciplines towards personal fulfillment and a desire for a less demanding lifestyle.

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I can really like taking part in festivals, drinking beer in the afternoon sun and just being Emma.