Kiwi Olympian Lisa Carrington Announces Pregnancy

Carrington aims to compete at 2028 LA Olympics despite expecting first child

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:58am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic motion of a kayaker, with bold colors and geometric shapes representing the energy and focus of the athlete.An artistic interpretation of the determination and drive of New Zealand's most decorated Olympian as she aims for the 2028 Games despite her pregnancy.Los Angeles Today

New Zealand's most decorated Olympian, Dame Lisa Carrington, has announced she is pregnant with her first child. However, Carrington stated on social media that she still plans to compete at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

Why it matters

Carrington is one of the most successful and recognizable athletes in New Zealand. Her announcement that she will continue training for the 2028 Olympics despite her pregnancy is seen as an inspiring example of work-life balance and determination among elite athletes.

The details

Carrington, a five-time Olympic gold medalist in kayaking, revealed the pregnancy news on her social media accounts on Wednesday. She said she and her partner Bucky are 'expecting' and called it 'some of the greatest news' she's ever shared. Despite the pregnancy, Carrington stated that her goal remains to compete at the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

  • Carrington announced her pregnancy on April 15, 2026.
  • The 2028 Summer Olympics are scheduled to take place in Los Angeles.

The players

Lisa Carrington

A five-time Olympic gold medalist in kayaking and New Zealand's most successful Olympian.

Bucky

Carrington's partner, with whom she is expecting her first child.

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What they’re saying

“This is some of the greatest news I've ever shared Bucky and I are expecting!”

— Lisa Carrington

The takeaway

Carrington's announcement demonstrates the growing trend of elite female athletes balancing motherhood and high-level competition. Her goal to compete at the 2028 Olympics despite her pregnancy is an inspiring example of determination and work-life integration.