The Rowsellas Women’s Pair of Annabelle McIntyre and Jess Morrison will race for gold after another standout performance in their pressure-packed semi-final at the Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium.
The duo, both gold medallists from the Four in Tokyo, have put together a strong regatta and will rest and recover for Final A after taking out the second semifinal in 7:14.14, with the United States close behind in 7:15.59.
The USA took the race out hard and had a narrow lead through 1500m before the Australian boat increased its speed to take control and cross first.
A medal race is a just reward for Annabelle and Jess, who have been a consistent podium threat in this event and took silver in the 2023 World Rowing Championships. The Dutch crew that won that title, Ymkje Clevering and Veronique Meester, were the fastest through to the final after winning the opening semi in 7:10.16.
Annabelle and Jessica are no strangers to delivering under pressure.
“Semifinals are a really interesting race. You have everything to lose so people go out and just race. We had to stay calm and push through,” Annabelle said.
“We wanted the win and you never know what happens at the back end of the race, so it’s important to get out as fast as possible and get in front.
“Today is the scary day, if you don’t make the top three you don’t get through. We’re happy to be in the position we are in and now it’s about letting go and seeing how fast we can go on that final day.”
The only other boat in action for the Rowsellas was the Quad Scull of Ria Thompson, Rowena Meredith, Laura Gourley and Caitlin Cronin.
They finished second to Romania in Final B in 6:30.85 to record an eighth place overall.
Phil Lutton
