MIKHAIL ZATOLOKKA: “CANOEING IS MY LIFE”

From an early age, Mikhail Zatolokka dreamed of practicing water sports. This dream led him to a coach who, as it turned out, lived just next door. Mikhail decided to join him for a training session — and from that moment on, water sports became an integral part of his life.

He has been engaged in canoe and kayak paddling since the age of nine. Over the years, Mikhail has overcome many fears, learned to work on his mistakes, and constantly strives for better results.

One of the most difficult periods for him came when long and exhausting training sessions did not bring the desired success, while his friends who had entered the sport later were already showing strong results. It was a tough time — both mentally and physically. However, it was precisely these challenges that shaped his character and gave him the strength to move forward.

Mikhail places particular emphasis on the importance of both mental and physical preparation before competitions. For him, warm-up exercises are an essential part of training that help prevent serious injuries.

Coaches play a vital role in his athletic life — Maksim Petrovich and Dmitry Nikolayevich are not just mentors to Mikhail, but a true second family. They know how to offer support in difficult moments and give the right push when it's most needed.

Equally important is the support of his family. Mikhail is deeply grateful to his loved ones who are always by his side — especially his mother, who, even when he’s away, always calls and asks: “Where are you? Who are you with? Have you eaten?” These simple words give him confidence and help him stay focused on achieving his best.

Mikhail is currently in intensive training for the Asian Championships. But his ultimate goal is to compete in the Olympic Games — and to win under the flag of his homeland, Kazakhstan.