Under-23 rowers secure medals in Essen

British under-23 rowers put in strong performances at the Essen Regatta in Germany last weekend.

"It was a good weekend", said Peter Sheppard, Chief Coach of Under-23s and Juniors. "Against international competition, the rowers got some good, solid results."

The women’s four of Vicky Bryant, Victoria Thornley, Leonora Kennedy and Ruth Walczak were double-gold medallists, while another GB women’s four of Olivia Oakes, Atlanta St John, Gemma Akers and Jenny Arnold also performed well.

Lightweight sculler Katherine Copeland had a excellent weekend, winning gold on Saturday and a silver on Sunday in the women’s lightweight single scull.

Other strong results for the weekend include a gold for the men’s eight, a silver for the men’s four on Saturday and a silver for the men’s lightweight double scull on Sunday.

The team for the 2009 World U23 Championships will be announced in July.