The women’s U23 singles category could prove one of the most competitive, with it feasible that the top sculler overall could come from this age group. With so much strength coming through, these athletes will be aware of the opportunities to compete at a senior level, in addition to the age group championships.
Lauren Henry (Leicester RC)
Second only to Helen Glover in November, Lauren Henry looked to be in great form in the early part of the season. As was the case in November, she’ll be looking to claim top spot, and with Glover back in a sweep boat, hoping to move up to top spot irrespective of age categories.
Vwaire Obukohwo (Twickenham RC)
Second best U23 in November behind Lauren Henry, Vwaire Obukohwo will hope to close the gap to Henry this time round. A world under 23 bronze medalist in the double last year, Obukohwo is one of the athletes who’ll be looking to push for spots on the senior team.
Rachel Bradley (Newcastle University BC)
Rachel Bradley was the best of the rest behind Henry and Obukohwo in November, putting in a really strong performance. She’ll be hoping to try and close the gap to Henry and Bradley while staying ahead of the likes of former GB U23 teammate Anna Grace.
Molly Curry (Queen’s University Belfast Ladies BC)
Molly Curry put in a great row in November trials to finish fourth, pushing Bradley all the way. The Northern Irish athlete will be looking to consolidate her place as one of the up and coming rowers looking to push their way onto the GB sculling team come this summer.
Prediction
Obukohwo and Henry were in a different class in November, and are likely to be the two stand out athletes again this time round. More interesting to see if Bradley and Curry can put themselves in pole position as their successors for U23, or whether others can challenge them for third spot.
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