Racing began today at the 2011 World Rowing Under 23 Championships in Amsterdam, Netherlands (July 20 to July 24).
Canadians saw action in only one event - the men's four - this afternoon. The Italians took the heat in 5:52.57, followed by the Germans in 5:53.98 and Canada captured the final semi qualifying spot in 5:59.45. (All times shown are for 2000m). Argentina and France followed and must row in a rep to move ahead.
The U23 men's four is David Lariviere (Hamilton, ON), David Wakulich (St. Catharines, ON), Blake Parsons (Toronto, ON), and Spencer Crowley (Lantzville, BC)
"The four had a good race and identified areas of their race plan that they need to work on for the semis," said Rowing Canada Aviron men's development coach, Paul Hawksworth. "A good row overall today."
Canada has six entries in this age-category Worlds - the four that raced today, plus a men's pair, light men's four, women's eight, women's light double and women's light single.
The team came to Amsterdam fresh and well-prepared from Gent, Belgium, where they participated in a beneficial pre-regatta training camp.