Women's Quadruple Sculls (W4x)- Final

Five of six finalists from last year’s World Rowing Championships were in this race. From the heats two days ago Germany and the Netherlands had been the quickest with the world silver medallists, Germany recording the fastest times. Poland, though, were the first to show in these rainy, cool conditions. The race also included China who had qualified earlier this week at the last chance, Final Olympic Qualification Regatta and the World Champions, United States made up of a different crew from 2015.

Poland, who won the World Rowing Cup I last month, continued to lead with Germany in hot pursuit. Poland’s Springwald, Leszczynska, Kobus and Ciaciuch had done it. Their beautifully timed race gave them the win. Germany held on for silver with the Netherlands, rating 39 then 40, taking bronze.

Results: POL, GER, NED, CHN, AUS, USA2

Maria Springwald (b), Poland, gold
“It was amazing! We were leading the whole way and that was our plan. We were not sure if that plan would hold because the Germans are really strong. This gives us confidence for the Games.”

Marie-Catherine Arnold, Germany, silver
“It was a tough race in these conditions with pouring rain. We didn’t have a good start and the pace in the middle was not so good too. We are a little disappointed not to win, but we have time to improve before Rio.

Nicole Beukers (2), the Netherlands, bronze
“The last metres it was just go, go, go. We finished just in second but unfortunately it turned out to be third. It was an OK race, but our first part still needs some improvement.”