Ian Wiley travels to the Czech Republic today at the beginning of a five-week trip which could see him retain his title as European kayak champion, and perform well in the final of the World Cup series.

"My main aim this year has been the Europeans," says the Irish canoeist, who defends his European title in Roudnice in the Czech Republic next weekend. After the European Championships, Wiley will travel on to the World Cup finals in Seu Durgel in Spain which take place in a month's time. The World Championships, which take place in Seu Durgel next year, are one of his big aims, and he hopes last week's £24,000 grant will help him emulate other canoeists who can hire personal physiotherapists and trainers.