Blogging the U23 World Rowing Championships

Today marked the first day of rowing at the World Rowing Under 23 Championships in Racice, Czech Republic.

The USA lightweight men's quadruple sculls placed third in their heat to advance to the semifinals. Falling behind Germany's 6:08.83 and Hungary's 6:14.40, USA posted a 6:17.15, nearly 30 seconds ahead of Venezuela. Because USA was not pushed for placement, it's unknown what they are capable of facing tougher competition.

The fastest time of the morning was a 6:04.41, posted by Italy.

Repechages* and quarterfinals will be raced Friday, semifinals Saturday and Finals Sunday. Our boys (men?) get a day of rest.

If you're interested in checking out other races, the start list can be found in .pdf format here. Or you could get up early in the morning to check out the live race viewer.

Full Results:
The defending U.S. women's eight won their heat, along with the women's pair and lightweight men's four.

Teams advancing:
LM1x [Quarters]
W2- [Finals]
LW2x [Semis]
M4- [Semis]
LW4x [Finals]
LM4x [Semis]
LM4- [Semis]
M4+ [Finals]
W8+ [Finals]

Teams racing in repechages* tomorrow:
LW1x
W1x
M1x
LM2-
M2-
LM2x
W2x
M2x
W4-
W4x
M4x
M8+

*Repechage: French for "re-fishing," this is a consolation race for lower-placing teams that allows the winner(s) to get back into the medal bracket.

Complete results here [.pdf].
World Rowing coverage here.
USRowing coverage here.