With sights now set on the rest of summer racing, Cork Regatta allows for racing at the National Rowing Centre (NRC) before the Irish Championships next month. With a small but strong field of four women in the senior scull, all will be searching for the top spot to put them in good standing for future racing.
University College Cork, L. O’Brien
Coming from the six-seat of the UCC 1st VIII, who won the Overseas Crew pennant at Women’s Head of the River Race, O’Brien has not only the watts but the knowledge of how to move a boat well. After her success at Irish Indoors and performing well in sweep this year, I’m sure that she will be looking forward to the transition back into the scull.
Fermoy RC, A O’Mahony
Sure to be putting down the pace this weekend, O’Mahony, who is already selected for the women’s senior sweep squad for the Home International Regatta, will be one to watch. With an impressive 2000m time at the Irish Indoor Rowing Championships at the start of the season and previous success on the course known for its unpredictability, Aine can be sure to go into this weekend with confidence in her ability.
Neptune, A Mahon
Another dominant athlete in the mix, Mahon, is returning to the scull. As an alumna of UCD, the waters of the NRC will not be a surprise for this sculler this weekend – a confidence boost that may make a difference in this field. Her previous experience in the scull last season is sure to have only improved over the last season, and she is one to watch this weekend.
University of Limerick, A Mannix
Mannix, a rower not unaware of silverware, will be the final athlete in the category. Having recently been at U23 final trials, Mannix will be competent on the waters of the NRC, ready to tackle the scull. Having spent the majority of her season in various sweep boats, I am looking forward to seeing how she can adapt her power to the scull.
Prediction
In a field of athletes with this much speed and skill, this will be a race worth following. All four of these women are experienced in racing on these waters, though I think that the competition for gold will be between O’Mahony and Mannix. Best of luck to all competitors.
