Great Britain came through from the heats with the fastest times and today they lined up as the definite favourites. The British jumped out to an early lead with Canada chasing hard. By the middle of the race, Great Britain had a boat length lead with Canada and the Netherlands going head to head. The Dutch are the reigning World Champions, but they have had a bitsy season so far with injury and crew changes.

Coming into the final sprint, Great Britain had increased their lead, but the Netherlands, at a 39 stroke rate, looked to be closing. At the line the Dutch didnt’t catch the British, but they made a good dent in their lead. Canada held on to take bronze – one spot up on their fourth place in Aiguebelette.

Results: GBR, NED, CAN, GER, ITA, CZE

Gold – GREGORY, Alex  GBR

From my seat that was one of the best rows all season. Racing is the best training and that was our best one and we are happy to do that here in Lucerne.

Silver – VELSLUIS, Mechiel (NED)

I am quite tired and quite satisfied with the results. We are building the team, getting better every time. I am looking forward to the World Championships in Amsterdam because it is my home town and I have been training there. Ultimately the aim is Rio in 2016.

Bronze – MCCABE, Conlin (CAN)

What can I say about that? We probably rowed our best race of the season right there! Amazing commitment from the guys right from the warm up to the push.

 

B-Final

The silver medallists from the 2013 World Rowing Championships, Australia took silver again at the World Rowing Cup in Aiguebelette last month raced in today’s B-final. The Australians found themselves having to chase down Poland who got out quickly and managed to keep their nose ahead of Australia. But a better sprint by Australia gave them the first place.

Results: AUS, POL, ESP, RUS