August 5, 2009
source: Rowing Canada

The crew sent to represent Canada at 2009 World Rowing Junior Championships in Brive-la-Gaillarde, France, advanced directly to the finals after today's heat.

Canada's finishing sprint helped win the race in 6:24.77 - the crew was followed by the U.S. in 6:25.75 and New Zealand in 6:28.15. Only the winner advanced directly to the final, and the others must row in a repechage to make it through. Germany convincingly won the other coxed four heat in 6:19.54.

"Obviously a good start for this crew," said Peter Cookson, Rowing Canada's High Performance Director. "I'm sure this will boost their confidence a bit, but also make them aware of the high level of racing at this regatta."

The Canadian Junior coxed four is Eric Jackson of Richmond, B.C., William Matthews of Vancouver, B.C., Alexander Thorlakson of Kelowna B.C., Pryce Waites of Lake Oswego, Oregon, and Sean Whitehall (cox) of Wainfleet, Ont.

According to FISA, the world rowing federation, conditions were near perfect with almost flat waters, warm temperatures and hardly any wind. This year, 783 athletes from 66 nations are competing in this top regatta for Junior rowers.

To view the team list with home clubs, see http://www.rowingcanada.org/national_team/junior/jnt_09/

For more information on the World Juniors, visit http://www.worldrowing.com/