The Americans rowed five boats into finals or semi-finals A/B at the Rowing World Championships held in Munich, Germany on Wednesday.

 

In men's coxed four, the US led the event in lane race. Britain was fourth. The British line-up of Andy Hodge, Alex Partridge, Steve Williams and Peter Reed had not lost a race since they made a team in 2005.

 

But a hiccup when Partridge was out due to injury showed that the four was not infallible. Coming down from their customary altitude training and back together as a four, Britain faced very tough racing in the form of US, Germany and Netherlands. All four boats showed the skill to push to the line.

 

The men's coxed four could also go Germany's way as defending champions rowing on their home course, but the experience sitting in the US entry will not make it easy for them. This race could be a close call.

 

In women's lightweight four, United States was second in repechage, following China to advance to the final A. In men's lightweight four, United States finished repechage third to reach final A. Britain took the top place. In women's lightweight double sculls, United States qualified a boat in semi-final A/B after crossing the finishing line in third in repechage 2. It was Britain that led the race.

 

In repechage 2 of women's eight, United States stood on top to enter final A. The most consistent crew in the event this season is Germany and they would like nothing more than to flex their muscle on their own Olympic rowing course.

 

Germany, under the pace of lively stroke Elke Hipler, has picked up two silvers and a gold this season. One of this season's golds went to the reigning World Champions the United States.

 

The US are bound to be at the top of their game coming into this competition, lining up with eight of the nine 2006 World Champions making them the most stable and consistent crew to come out of the US squad.

 

The challenge for the top spot goes deeper. The Netherlands have held their own against the competition all season with two bronze and a gold while China, Britain and Australia are regular finalists.

 

Other impressive squads are Britain, Canada and hosts Germany as all they had pulled out no less than three spots for finals or semi-finals.

 

(Xinhua News Agency August 30, 2007)