Australian Olympic kayak competitor Jo Brigden-Jones may already have a bit of an advantage.
The 24-year-old nurse is a surf lifeguard.
She's hoping her beach surf experience, and training at sea on a surfski, will give her and the Australian four-person team, an extra edge.
SOUNDBITE: JO BRIGDEN-JONES SAYING (English):
"Yes, I definitely think Australia has an advantage with how we can train in the surf compared to the European countries who just train in flat water. It's a tough environment out there and you know you are against challenges with the elements. It makes you tougher and stronger trying to race against the wind and the waves."
Brigden-Jones is one of three lifeguards at the Manly surf club representing Australia in kayaking.
The biggest asset of beach lifeguards is their ability to adjust to the unpredictability of the weather and ocean conditions.
They'll be competing on a man-made lake half an hour outside London.
It may not have waves but it's well known for its erratic gusts.
Paul Chapman, Reuters
