[MOLINE, IL] (February 22, 2012) - Elizabeth Sharis, a 14 year old junior member of Y Quad Cities Rowing, competed this past weekend at the 31st annual CRASH B World Indoor Rowing Championships. The event was held at Agganis Arena at Boston University before a record crowd of more than 8,000 spectators. More than 2,200 athletes competed in several age and weight divisions; 24 countries were represented, including 47 athletes from the United Kingdom, 38 from Canada, and 16 from Germany. All athletes completed 2000 meters on Concept2 Ergometer indoor rowing machines, with real-time results shown on large screens over the arena for rowing enthusiasts and other spectators to see.
Sharis competed in the Junior Women's Lightweight division. A total of 100 girls aged 14-18 years and 135 pounds or under were in her event. Christine Cavallo (Orlando, FL) and Sharis pulled away early from the rest of the field and had a very close race for most of the 2000 meter race. However, Cavallo began to edge ahead in the final 400 meters and finished strongly, recording a time of 7:16.7, the third fastest time in event history. Sharis finished with a 7:21.6, more than 8 seconds ahead of third place. The two juniors very fast times would have placed them 4th and 6th, respectively, in the women's open lightweight event.
Sharis and all the other junior Y Quad Cities rowers will be competing in a regional indoor race in Chicago this weekend. The race is the team's final indoor competition. Outdoor practices begin in late March and regional and national regattas take place in May and June.
Youth ages 12 to 18 who are interested in learning more about the sport of rowing are invited to an Open House Saturday, March 24, 9 am to 11 am at the Sylvan Boathouse, 1701 1st Avenue, Moline. Call Dave Weaver at 762-6030 to learn more.
the Y
The Two Rivers YMCA strengthens communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. They Y engages men, women and children - regardless of age, income or background - to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation's health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. www.tworiversymca.com
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