Six Irish crews carry medal prospects into finals Independent.ie 4 hrs ago Robert Treharne Jones
Ireland’s lightweight double sculls were on top form for the semi-finals at the European Championships in Italy yesterday. Both crews secured places in their finals to add to the qualifying slots achieved by their teammates in Friday’s heats, so six Irish crews will be in contention for today’s medals.
Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy made no mistakes in their lightweight double, although it was the Italians, Stefano Oppo and Pietro Ruta who were first at the 500m, with Ireland third. In the second quarter O’Donovan and McCarthy turned up the heat and blew the leaders away, finishing with clear water ahead of Italy, while the Czech Republic just snatched third.
O Donovan and McCarthy impress as two boats make finals
Updated / Saturday, 10 Apr 2021
11:55
O Donovan (R) and McCarthy raced an impressive semi-final
Paul O Donovan (UCC) and Fintan McCarthy (Skibberreen RC) looked in ominous form as they progressed to the final of the lightweight men s double sculls at the European Rowing Championships in Varese, Italy.
The Irish crew were all smiles as they crossed the line ahead of the Italian and Czech crews, who appeared more impacted by the race ahead of tomorrow s final.
O Donovan and McCarthy came home in 6:22.74, almost three seconds faster than the Italians in second.
The German crew looked impressive in the other semi final, winning ahead of the Ukrainian boat in a time of 6:24.51.
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