An unexpected talent discovered just six months ago has elevated Flinders student Jocelyn Neumueller from recreational rower to world class athlete in less than a year.

Ms Neumueller, who is studying for a Bachelor of Medical Science, is currently competing at the ICF Paracanoe World Championships in Duisburg, Germany.

Success in Germany could even see her become a Paralympian thanks to the competition’s status as a Paralympic qualifying event.

“It has been a pretty quick entry to the sport and the last two months have been a quick transition to elite kayaking,” said Ms Neumueller.

“I began paddling towards the end of last year recreationally and took part in the national canoe sprint series and nationals in December, February and March for what was more just fun.

“When I was classified at nationals, on my results from all regattas including nationals, I found out I won my classification for all events and was selected to the Australian Paracanoe Team in March.

“At worlds I am competing in the kayak 200M sprint as that is the only distance being run being a Paralympic selection event.”

Ms Neumueller is from Victor Harbor and is a member of West Lakes Canoe Club.

You can read a full interview with her on the Australian Canoeing website here: http://canoe.org.au/2016/03/18/jocelyn-neumueller/