Mark de Jonge added medal number 18 to Canada’s medal count for London 2012, taking bronze in the men’s K1 200m kayak event. Heading into these gamess, Canada were hoping for at least 18 medals and a spot inside the top twelve in the overall standings, which is exactly where they currently sit.

PHOTO CREDIT - Olympic.ca

London - August 11, 2012 - Mark de Jonge added an 18th medal to Canada’s medal tally, taking bronze in the men’s K1 200m kayak event.

“I wasn't nervous. I felt comfortable and I felt so much support from back home,” de Jonge said. “It was a good race. It was not my perfect race, but I am so happy “to get a medal!"

“Mark de Jonge showed the world what he, and what Canadian athletes, are made of,” said Mark Tewksbury, 2012 Canadian Olympic Team Chef de Mission. “He demonstrated so much power and determination and speed to capture a bronze medal and Canadians can all be proud of his result today.”

“Once again, Canadians have a reason to cheer a podium performance,” said Assistant Chef de Mission Sylvie Bernier. “Today, Mark de Jonge stepped onto an Olympic podium for the first time and became a part of Canada’s Olympic history.”

“Every medal is special and every medalist is unique,” said Marcel Aubut, President of the Canadian Olympic Committee. “Mark de Jonge’s dedication to perfecting his craft has earned him the right to call himself an Olympic medalist �" a very special title. Congratulations Mark! You have made us all proud.”