Lightweight Men's Single Sculls Final

There is no doubting that Pedro Fraga of Portugal came through to this final as the favourite. Fraga comes out of his country’s lightweight men’s double which raced in the final at the 2012 Olympics. Since then Fraga has been dabbling quite successfully in the single but plans to go back into the double for the next Olympic Games.

Fraga is never the fastest of starters, but he managed to come out with the bunch. By the middle of the race however, Fraga had found the lead with Michael Schmid of Switzerland and Italy’s Marcello Miani following extremely closely. Then Fraga, using a stroke rate about three beats higher than his competition, pulled away. The rowing supporters back in Portugal must have been brimming with pride as Fraga moved into a class of his own.

This left Miani and Schmid to battle against each other for the silver. Miani did the better job of it and came through in a photo finish just 0.02 seconds faster than Schmid. All scullers must be satisfied with this great race. Fraga, in first, broke the European Best Time and set the new one at an impressive 6:51.72.

 Results: POR, ITA, SUI, DEN, GBR, GER

Gold – Pedro Fraga – POR

The race went to plan and I found my rhythm, felt great and got the gold. I only jumped in the single scull from the double as my partner got injured so it’s great to win here.

Silver – Marcello Miani – ITA

I’m pleased with second – it’s windy and I had a back problem so I’m not feeling great today. Of course I raced for first but happy with second.

Bronze – Michael Schmid – SUI

I’m very proud. I thought I had finished fourth so I’m really happy with third.