Women's Eight (W8+) - Final

The heat two days ago saw World and Olympic Champions, the United States challenged by Great Britain who led for the majority of the race. The US prevailed in the end and qualified for the final with the fastest time. Today they met the winner of the other heat and last year’s silver medallists, Canada.

Coach of the US crew, Tom Terhaar must have had a word with his crew as today the United States did not let the British get away. The United States had the lead at the start and maintained it through the middle of the race with Canada in their standard bridesmaid position of second to the Americans. Then at the 1200m mark the United States, with Katelin Snyder in the coxswain seat, did a piece that gave them a bit of space over Canada. But the Canadians were not having it and held on.

In a display of pure power (but maybe not the prettiest of rowing), the United States charged to the line with Canada unable to close the gap. Canada took silver and Great Britain earned the bronze.

Results: USA, CAN, GBR, CHN, NZL, AUS

Meghan Musnicki (2) – USA – gold

“It was an amazing feeling to cross the line first, we capitalised on the things we’ve been working on. It’s our first race in this lineup. The depth of our programme is phenomenal and it is a privilege to be a part of this group.”

Christine Roper (5) – CAN – silver

“It was a gutsy race. Obviously we wanted to win, but it was the best race we could have today, so overall that is good.”

Olivia Carnegie-Brown (6) – GBR – bronze

“We applied exactly what we’ve practised for the last couple of weeks. We are satisfied with that. The start was good and I felt like I was in a good rhythm during the race.”