That's exactly what Crookwell High School's Oti Trigas did at the 2019 World Championships in the freestyle kayaking category in Spain in July.

The Year 12 student competed in the Junior Men's competition in the 14 to 18-year-old category and Oti was pleased with his efforts.

"I am proud," Oti said.

"I'd say I did pretty well for my first time."

"My aim heading into the events was to do the best I could do and to get a decent a score.

"I'm glad I was able to achieve that."

With a long and bright future ahead of him, a key for Oti is to keep improving and the Championships was the perfect platform for him to do so.

"My favourite thing was the experience I gained as well as the new things I learned from other paddlers," Oti said.

"I learnt new moves and better paddling techniques.

"That motivated me to do better.

Trigas's father used to kayak and that made him decide to give the sport a crack.

"I love kayaking because it's a bit of a challenge," he said.

"My coaches and father are my kayaking idols now."

Competitions have finished for the year, but next up for Oti is the Nationals next year before another World Championship in two years time.

In the meantime, he will be training towards those events at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium.

"I think I need more flat water practice and to get stronger in the boat."

Crookwell High School teacher Belinda Maher said the school was completely behind the sportsman.

"Crookwell High School are proud of him and will continue to support his sporting endeavours," Maher said.