Day 1 of the U21 Trans-Tasman Regatta
A chilly Canberra morning greeted our competitors for day one of the U21 Trans-Tasman Regatta which kicked off today between the New Zealand and Australia teams.
The day started with the two teams competing on the rowing machine (erg). There were four heats of mixed gendered racing, with five women and five men from each country racing across 500m, with the reserve for each country required to race.
With hands on the handles, both teams went flat out for their country trying to keep those split times as low as possible. It was impressive to see a dead heat in the Men’s races, whilst in the Women’s races Australia's Isabella Scammell took the win.
The afternoon session saw the Men’s and Women’s Eights take on the 3km time trial course from The Boathouse Restaurant at the mouth of the Molonglo River, to Central Basin and the Parliamentary Triangle, before finishing in front of the National Museum of Australia. Strong winds created an interesting head race for both countries.
The New Zealand female eight was struck by illness and in the spirit of competition, chose to race for points with only five rowers and their coxswain. This meant Australia, with a full crew complement, took the win in the Women’s Eight, cheered on by spectators lining the bank of Lake Burley-Griffin.
The Men’s Eight was a closer run race, with both eights complete, but saw Australia take the victory in the time trial for the last race of the day.
Looking ahead to day two, which will see racing on the 1800m course at Yarramundi Reach, under the view of Government House, home to the Governor-General. The Heats kick off at 9am, followed by Finals at 2pm.
Day One Trans-Tasman Regatta Points Update:
- Australia: 37.5
- New Zealand: 22.5