Not Mahuchikh: Ukraine awarded the "Athlete of the Year"

At the "Person of the Year" ceremony in Kyiv, the winner in the "Best Female Athlete" category was announced. The title went to Ukraine’s representative in canoe sprint.

Despite strong competition, Luzan was able to convince the jury with her achievements at the World and European Championships. This year the three-time Olympic medalist significantly added to her medal collection, writes 24 Channel.

Luzan — "Athlete of the Year"

Lyudmyla Luzan received the statuette at the ceremony held in the capital. Our canoeist was presented the award by NOC President Vadym Huttsait and Member of Parliament, former track and field athlete Olha Saladukha.

Luzan was recognized for another successful season at the world and European levels. At the Canoe World Championships, Lyudmyla was the first among European athletes to defend the title in the Olympic distance of 200 meters. That gold was her 9-th at World Championships.

At the European Championships, Luzan simply dominated all opponents, winning four golds — in singles and pairs at 200 meters and 500 meters.

In addition, Lyudmyla had victories and podiums at World Cup stages.

Who else could have vied for the title

The choice of "Athlete of the Year" sparked discussion online about whether this award might have been more deserved by high jumper Yaroslava Mahuchikh.

The high jumper had a rather controversial season, but unquestionably took the biggest prizes — the indoor World Championship title, the European Championship, and the first-ever Absolute World Championship.