Katie Vincent and her canoe sprint doubles partner Sloan MacKenzie took a step in the right direction Tuesday in their hunt for a podium at the 2024 Olympic Games.

The pair finished first in the second heat of the 500-metre race with a time of 1:54.16, securing a spot in the event’s semifinals and setting a new Olympic best mark.

The Canadian duo qualified for the Paris Olympics by winning bronze at the 2023 ICF Canoe Sprint World Championships. They went on to win gold at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games and silver at the first ICF World Cup of 2024.

Vincent set the world record time in 2018 with then-teammate Laurence Vincent Lapointe, securing a time of 1:51.42.

Vincent Lapointe has since retired, after winning a bronze medal with Vincent at the Tokyo Olympics.

The fastest two teams in each heat Tuesday secured a spot in the semifinals, while the remaining competitors will head to a quarterfinal race to advance.

China and Ukraine advanced out of the first heat, with Chinese canoers posting a time of 1:54.45.

Spain finished second in the heat with the Canadians, a place in the semifinals.

Vincent and MacKenzie will race in the semifinals on Friday at 4:30 a.m. ET / 1:30 a.m. PT.

Canadian duo Laurence Vincent-Lapointe and Katie Vincent made waves at the Tokyo Olympics as they set a new Olympic record in the 500-metre canoe sprint event. The pair’s impressive performance not only secured their spot in the next round of competition but also solidified their status as strong contenders for a medal.

Vincent-Lapointe and Vincent, who have been training together for years, displayed impeccable teamwork and coordination as they powered through the water with precision and speed. Their flawless technique and synchronization allowed them to outpace their competitors and cross the finish line in record time.

The Canadian duo’s achievement is particularly noteworthy as it marks a significant milestone in their careers and showcases their dedication and hard work. Vincent-Lapointe, a multiple-time world champion in canoe sprint, has long been considered one of the top athletes in the sport, while Vincent has also proven herself to be a formidable competitor on the international stage.

Their success in the 500-metre event is a testament to their talent and determination, as well as the support and guidance of their coaches and training staff. The duo’s performance has not only impressed fans and spectators but has also inspired a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence in their chosen sport.

As Vincent-Lapointe and Vincent prepare for the next round of competition, they will undoubtedly be looking to build on their momentum and continue to push themselves to new heights. With their eyes set on the podium, the Canadian duo is poised to make a lasting impact on the world of canoe sprint and showcase the talent and skill that has made them two of the best in the sport.