Olympic canoeing champion Ed McKeever made a winning return to competitive action at the British selection event in Nottingham.
The London 2012 hero was racing for the first time since his famous triumph at Eton Dorney last August and showed his class with victory in the men's K1 200m final in 37.41secs.
Runner-up Liam Heath was just behind in 37.55 as McKeever followed his tried and proven formula of a clean start, rapid increase in boat speed and strong hold to the finish on a wet and windy afternoon at the National Water Sports Centre.
"It's my first race since London and it's nice to go out there and blow off the cobwebs, so to speak," said Bradford on Avon's McKeever.
"It's been a tough winter, quite miserable over the last few weeks but ultimately that's why we train, for racing.
"It wasn't the best conditions today and obviously there were slow times because of the headwind but ultimately you have to race in all conditions and it's the same for everyone.
"I was pre-selected for the World Cups based on my performances last year, but obviously it's nice to come up here and race."
Next on McKeever's agenda is the World Cup series.
He said: "The first [is] in Szeged and the following weekend in the Czech Republic.
"That's when I get a real benchmark where I am internationally."
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
