Image Credit: British Rowing
Team GB’s top women’s sweep boat has often been bested by other countries, frequently falling short of the medals. However, last year’s U19 women’s four broke the trend by securing a silver—a hugely impressive feat. With all of this crew having represented GB earlier this season at the Munich International Junior Regatta, they likely already have some chemistry. With this knowledge and experience formed, they will be determined to claim the top spot and walk away as U19 world champions.
Emily Nicholas – Sir William Perkin’s School (J16)
To have an athlete as young as J16 race in GB’s top women’s sweep boat is pretty outstanding. Emily Nicholas secured a silver medal at the National Schools’ Regatta in the women’s J16 double sculls before making the switch to sweeping. Her ability to cross disciplines and compete at an extremely high level in both shows the talent that this boat will have on board with her.
Martha Shepard – Hinksey Sculling School (J18)
Sitting in the stroke seat of last year’s silver medal-winning four, Martha Shepherd returns for another year, hopefully looking to upgrade her silver to a gold. After enjoying a very impressive season at Hinksey, managing to take home a gold in the girls championship eights, she has successfully gone back-to-back to position herself in the four yet again. To have two consecutive years in the top boat at worlds is beyond impressive and clearly shows her talent; there is no doubt she will be invaluable to the crew.
Natasha Philips – Wycliffe College (J18)
Having won the women’s solo beach sprints, Natasha Philips returns to flat water rowing in seek of another gold medal. She has rowed in Wycliffe’s second quad, highlighting the sheer depth of Wycliffe’s program. Having made that switch from sculling to sweeping again highlights her talent and skill. Her determination to win will likely drive this crew on and could very easily lead them to the gold medal position.
Acorn Cassidy – Enniskillen Royal Boat Club (J18)
Having already secured a victory in this exact boat type with Martha Shepherd at the Munich Junior International Regatta, Acorn Cassidy now sets their sights on retaining gold at the world champion level. After wrapping up their season with Enniskillen with decisive wins in the WJ18 four and eight at the Irish Rowing Championships, they have stepped up to join the world championship four. With that previous win under their belt, Acorn is undoubtedly hungry for more.
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