Two teams from Ireland secured medals at the World Cup rowing competition in Italy on a Sunday. Fiona Murtagh and Aifric Keogh attained a silver award in the women’s pair finale at Lago di Varese, while Philip Doyle and Daire Lynch clinched a bronze in the men’s double event. The Galway duo proved to be content with their achievement given that they were up against the current global champions, Veronique Meester and Ymkje Clevering from the Netherlands.
Fiona Murtagh expressed that it was their second race since the World’s thus learning was a continous process but it was an encouraging start to the Olympic year. Aifric Keogh reflected on a successful winter, stating that it was their longest duration in a singular vessel, an experience they hadn’t previously encountered as they typically alternate between many.
Philip Doyle and Daire Lynch, the men’s double team, also returned with a medal, attaining a bronze after narrowly surpassing the team from Germany. Despite their rapid start, which was one of their fastest ever, they initially found themselves not in medal contention. However, the decision to sprint at the 750-metre mark, a strategy slightly earlier than their usual 700 metres, paid off. The speed displayed on the stroke coach confirmed their medal victory, as it was unrivalled by other teams. Doyle reflected on his initial apprehension on the sustainability of their pace, but was reassured as it led them to medal success.