July 19, 2008

BRANDENBURG, Germany--Seven Husky oarsmen will face off Sunday in the A Final of the men's eight at the U-23 World Championships being held in Brandenburg, Germany.

In the first semifinal of the day, rising sophomore Blaise Didier occupied the three seat of the United States' boat. The U.S. crew started slow, falling behind Australia after the first 500 meters. A strong push in the second 500m gave the Americans a lead they would not relinquish. The U.S. won their semi in 6:09.79, beating second-place Poland by just under one second.

The second semifinal saw six Huskies take first place for Canada. Occupying every position but the two seat, three seat and the coxswain, Stephen Connolly, Chris Aylard, Rob Gibson, Conlin McCabe, Anthony Jacob and Will Crothers raced out to a quick lead. The Canadian eight was over two seconds ahead of the field by the end of the first 500m, and never allowed anyone closer than about a second and a half. Canada crossed the line at 6:20.68, 1.3 seconds ahead of Great Britain.

The men's eight final will be held on Sunday, and will pit Huskies against each other as the U.S. and Canadian teams meet head to head. Joining them will be crews from Germany, Great Britain, Poland and Estonia.

For the complete schedule and results, log on to GoHuskies.com.