George and Rory representing RUBC in the European U23 Rowing Championships 2018

George Lawton and Rory Harris both second years, were selected to row in Brest, Belarus in the Men’s Double Sculls competing at the European U23 Rowing Championships after a very successful season for them both, both on and off the water.

Rory and George’s journey started by flying to Warsaw, then taking a bus to the border in Belarus where their journey was concluded as they continued through to Brest. The European U23 Rowing Championships was held on a fantastic lake and surrounded by excellent facilities. 

Their heat was tough as they came up against some strong competition, but stuck to their plan and took the ‘foot off the gas’ when they realised they were not going to make the top two, thus saving themselves for the next stage. Making the top two meant they would have progressed on to the A final, but instead raced in the repechage. The repechage enabled the boys to have a better row, but they both felt it was not enough to at the time.  

The second of September came where they raced in the morning. With good conditions, Rory and George had a great race, feeling that they both grew throughout the regatta. Both were as a whole, very glad to have had the opportunity to race for Great Britain in the European U23 Rowing Championships, and are pleased with the end result. Back home, everyone is very proud of their achievements out in Brest and are excited to see what the new season holds for them both.

George and Rory after their win in the B final on Sunday.