The race that the big guys in sweep rowing want to win.
Heat 1: France, Poland, New Zealand, Hungary, Serbia
The commentator describes Murray and Bond as having a ‘long languid style’ and they are leading the field by three lengths with France second at 1000m, Poland third and Serbia fourth. Not content to row over they raise the stroke rate into the last 500m and carve a channel down the centre lanes – bet they’re going for an Olympic Record.
Heat 2: Netherlands , Canada, USA, Australia
50:50 white to yellow in this heat. The Canadians are leading the heat and the Australians trailing.
Canadians continue to lead with a high stroke rate and Dutch and Austraians scrapping for second – Australia two feet in front and they close towards the Canadians as the go to the line. Canada win and go to the final.
Heat 3: Greece, Germany, Great Britain, Italy
Greece and Great Britain are leading the race as the tailwind continues. After half way the Italians and
Germans fight back and forth for third while at the front the Italians lead Britain by half a length. By 1500 m the Brits lead Italy by 2/3 length and the crowds give cheer to these young athletes. Italy chase hard and have overcome Greece and 2/3 length behind Britain.
