Mixed D quad scull silver medallists Andrew Leehane, Lee-Anne Martin, Simon McFarlane and Julie Underwood.
The Australian Masters Rowing Championships kicked off in Penrith with an impressive performance by the Corowa crew.
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Led by rowing enthusiasts Julie Underwood and Simon McFarlane, the crew showcased their skill and determination throughout the three-day event, resulting in a remarkable medal haul.
On the first day of the championships, Julie Underwood partnered with Marie from Albert Park in the C age group double scull.
The duo faced stiff competition from a field of 32 double sculls but managed to secure a spot in the Semi Finals after finishing second in their heat. In the Semi Final, they put up a strong fight, ultimately ranking 16th overall with a sixth-place finish.
In the afternoon race, Andrew Leehane and Lee-Anne Martin from Wendouree Ballarat, and locals Simon McFarlane and Julie Underwood, joined forces in the Mixed D age group Quad Scull.
The Final witnessed a thrilling contest between eight quads, with the Corowa composite crew making a strategic move that propelled them into medal contention at the 500m mark.
Displaying their determination, the crew claimed the silver medal, securing a remarkable podium finish.
Day two saw Julie Underwood team up with rowers from Sydney in the Female D age group quad scull. The crew displayed their dominance right from the start, taking an early lead and maintaining it throughout the race.
They finished first in their heat, earning a sixth-ranked time for the final.
In the final race, the Corowa crew showcased their prowess once again, securing the silver medal with a well-executed sprint against a formidable field.
The day concluded with Julie and Simon teaming up in the highly anticipated D mixed double scull. The Corowa crew, silver medallists at the Victorian State Championships, entered the race with high expectations.
Following their race plan meticulously, they positioned themselves within striking distance at the 500m mark. With every stroke, the Corowa crew gained ground, and in the final 30 strokes, they surged ahead, claiming the gold medal and earning the title of National Champions.
Simon and Julie with their medals.
On the third and final day of the championships, Julie Underwood competed in the D single scull. Demonstrating her outstanding form, she finished second in her heat, securing a spot in the final. In the highly competitive final race, Julie raced valiantly, keeping pace with the country's best scullers and ultimately finishing a commendable 6th in Australia.
Simon McFarlane concluded the club's participation in the championships, competing in the male C quad scull with rowers from Yarra Yarra and Perth. Despite it being their first row together, the crew put up a fierce fight against state representative quad sculls.
In a thrilling sprint to the finish line, the Corowa crew narrowly missed out on a medal, securing a respectable fourth-place finish.
Julie and Simon completed a fantastic National Championships winning medals and holding their own against the best Masters rowers in the country.
As the racing season has a break over the winter months ,the focus will turn to the gym during the week and on water training on Sunday mornings.
Those interested in joining or learning more about the club's rowing activities are encouraged to visit during the week from 4.30 pm or on Sunday mornings from 9.00 am.
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