The gold standard: Remix chats with Dame Lisa Carrington
Speaking at an Under Armour event, shortly after we first met, Dame Lisa Carrington—namesake brand ambassador, world champion kayaker, and the most decorated Olympian in New Zealand history—reflects, 'I don't need to cross the finish line first to feel valued in myself.' It's a quiet but telling admission from an athlete whose career has been defined not just by gold medals, but by purpose. With nine Olympic medals to her name and plans to line up again in Los Angeles come 2028, Carrington's legacy is still being written. And now, as her partnership with Under Armour enters its second decade, so too does her growing influence in shaping the landscape for women in sport in Aotearoa. And at the heart of it all is a grounded sense of self—rooted in growth, identity, and resilience—that continues to lead the way on and off the water.
What does the title of 'New Zealand's most successful Olympian' mean to you—personally and professionally?
I'm very grateful for the recognition. Personally, it's incredibly humbling, and professionally, it reflects years of dedication, perseverance, and the unwavering support of so many people around me.
Alongside your Olympic accolades, you achieved the 2024 Māori Sports Person of the Year and the ANOC Outstanding Sporting Career Award last year. Do awards like these carry a different kind of meaning than medals?
Awards like these hold a different kind of meaning. They go beyond the performance itself and acknowledge the broader journey—my identity, heritage, and the impact sport can have off the water. Those acknowledgements feel really personal and remind me why I do what I do.
When you think about all you've achieved, what part of that story feels most defining to you?
For me, sport has been my greatest teacher. It has shaped my character, challenged my beliefs, and continues to humble me with new lessons every day. If it were only about medals and accolades, I probably would have stopped long ago. But sport is so much more than that —it's about growth, resilience, and the relationships we build along the way. 
How has your perception of success changed as your influence and accolades have grown?
My outlook on success has definitely evolved over time. I've always believed in minor, daily improvements, and that's still at the heart of my approach. But now, I think it's framed by a broader sense of purpose.
Your performance in the final of the K1 500m has gone down in the history books, not just for your Olympic Gold Medal win, but your cool, calm and collected demeanour on the water. In that moment, with the weight of expectation and history, how do you quiet the noise and stay present?
Thank you—that moment was the result of a huge journey, not just to Paris, but through the entire week of racing with the K4 and K2 as well. There's nothing quite like the intensity of an Olympic final, but over time, I've developed rituals and mental tools that help me stay grounded when it matters most.
In a sport that's so physically demanding, how much of your preparation is mental-based—and how do you balance training the body with training the mind?
The physical and mental sides of preparation go hand in hand—you really can't realise the full potential of one without the other. Training the body is, of course, essential, but training the mind is what allows you to show up fully, especially under pressure. I'm fortunate to have expert support in both areas and over time, I've developed mental tools that are just as critical as physical strength. 
Via @thenzteam
Your individual wins have solidified your place in history, but your achievements in K2 and K4 also highlight your strength as a teammate. What have those group experiences taught you about yourself that solo racing hasn't?
I love being part of a team, and I'm incredibly proud of the journey with Alicia, Tara, and Olivia. Racing as part of a team has challenged me to listen more, support more, and celebrate shared progress. I'd like to think it's made me not just a better athlete but a better person.
Are there challenges in switching between the two?
The increase in workload is a key factor, but I'm very fortunate to have an amazing coach and support team to help me with this.
How important is it for you to work with brands like Under Armour that allow you to bring your entire identity to the forefront?
I've been really lucky to work with Under Armour for well over a decade. They were one of my first sponsors, so it genuinely feels like they've been with me through every stage of the journey. The partnership is meaningful because they've always encouraged me to show up as my full self, both on and off the water.
Following the success of Lisa Carrington Chases a Champion, are there plans to expand your book series? If so, what direction do you envision it taking?
Yes, there are actually two more books in this series in the works. I can't share too many details at this stage, but they both continue to focus on lessons I learnt as my eight-year-old self. I'm excited to share them.
Via @lisacarrington
I couldn't help but notice a subtle 'LA28' hashtag on a recent Instagram post. Was this a tease into a possible representation of the Los Angeles Olympics in the 2028 games?
Yes, I plan to compete at the LA Olympics in 2028. There's lots of work to do, but I'm excited to continue the journey.
Would returning for a fifth Olympics feel like stepping into new pressure—not just to perform, but to live up to the legacy you've already created?
Every Olympics is unique and has its own challenges. I try not to compare one to another because that only creates unnecessary pressure. For me, it's about staying connected to why I race in the first place—because I love the sport, the process, and the pursuit of being better.
You've been with Under Armour for over a decade. What has that consistency meant for you in a career full of change, challenge, and growth?
Longevity has allowed us to grow together. I'm incredibly grateful for their belief in me from the very beginning, and their consistency has helped me stay focused and grounded through all the changes and challenges. I'm excited to continue this journey with them and see where we go next.
Your mural in Auckland, featuring you in an Under Armour kit, was a celebration of everything you represent. What did it mean to see that go up in your home country?
That was a bit of a 'pinch me' moment—it was a lot bigger than I expected and I loved all of the 'Easter egg' details woven into the design.
You're known for your quiet determination and strong work ethic. Do you feel your Under Armour gear, or the campaigns you've been part of, reflect that spirit well?
Absolutely. There's always been a natural alignment between my values and Under Armour's ethos. The campaigns I've been part of have championed the journey, the hard work, and the commitment it takes to succeed rather than just the outcome. It's awesome working with a brand that shares the same values.
Everyone has their go-to kit. What Under Armour pieces do you reach for most—whether it's for performance or just feeling confident day to day?
That's an easy one: the Under Armour Mid Crossback Sports Bra has been my go-to for as long as I can remember. I love it both on and off the water. Also the Meridian range, especially the Under Armour Meridian Leggings—they are buttery soft and perfect for everyday wear.
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