The "Good Luck Beijing" 2007 Canoe/Kayak Slalom Open began at the Shunyi Olympic Rowing-Canoeing Park on August 16. In today's heats of the men's C-1 event, Tony Estanguet of France, who won gold in two Olympic Games in a row, did exceptionally well to qualify for the semifinals tomorrow. After the races, the French double Olympic champion, a hot favorite for the title who enjoys great popularity among Chinese fans with his outstanding performance, said, "I'm looking forward to achieving good results at next year's Olympic Games. I believe Beijing 2008 will turn out to be very spectacular."

Talking about his competing in Beijing, Tony Estanguet said, "It was the first time for me to compete here, I still need some time to get familiar with the venue. I didn't do so well in my first run today, but I finally made into the semifinals." Commenting on the course, he said, "The course here is great. The current speed is fast, which makes it very difficult for the paddlers. But I like everything here. In this course, we have to be very careful at the turnings, or we'll make great mistakes. In France, I have never seen such a course. I came here last week. I simply felt that I couldn't do anything well when I had just arrived. Now I feel better, as I have gradually got used to it."

Speaking of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, Tony Estanguet seemed very excited. His great Olympic achievements justify his confidence in his future performance. He said, "I'm happy to see that the organization here is very good. I'm sure the Olympics here will be a great success, and I'll try to win again."