July 20, 2008

U-23 World Championships Results by Country

BRANDENBURG, Germany--Rising sophomore Blaise Didier helped the U.S. eight to a big win over the Canadian crew at the U-23 World Championships Sunday in Germany.

Didier, who rowed in the three seat of the American boat, helped the men's eight to a 5:49.42 finish, about a length ahead of the Husky-laden Canadian crew. The U.S. started slow, sitting in third place after the first 500 meters. But the Americans made their move in the second 500m, overtaking Poland and Estonia for first place by the end of the second 500m. By the 1500m mark, the U.S. had opened up almost a four second lead, putting them in position to win the race by nearly four seconds.

The Canadian eight came in second, crossing the line in 5:53.30. Stephen Connolly, Chris Aylard, Rob Gibson, Conlin McCabe, Anthony Jacob and Will Crothers fought from behind, but could not overtake the Americans. After the first 500m, the Canadians found themselves in fourth behind Poland, Estonia and the U.S. By the end of the second 500m, team Canada had worked itself into third place, trailing only the U.S. and Poland. By the 1500m mark, Canada was under four seconds behind the United States, but they could not quite catch up, giving the Americans the gold.

Washington athletes brought home gold in both the men's and women's eights and silver in the men's eight.

For the complete results, log on to GoHuskies.com