A valiant effort from the Irish pair.
The biggest day ever for Irish rowing got underway in Rio with Claire Lambe and Sinead Lynch racing in the lightweight double sculls final.
Crowds gathering @GreenAndBlack to support. @olympiccouncil #Rio2016 #goteamRI pic.twitter.com/IoVDxfF3es
— Rowing Ireland (@RowingIreland) August 12, 2016
The pair qualified for the medal race after coming third in their semi-final on Thursday afternoon. Regardless of the result of Friday’s race, Lynch and Lambe had already made history by reaching the final.
First ever Irish Women's crew to make an #OlympicGames 'A' final right here. #TeamIreland 💪🏻🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/btoLr2rvOm
— Team Ireland (@TeamIreland) August 11, 2016
Lambe and Lynch, in lane six, were in last position at the 500m split but were able to keep pace with the field.
The Chinese crew took an early lead, and at the 1000m split, the Irish crew were in sixth position at the 1000m split, four seconds behind the leading crew.
Despite a valiant effort in blustery conditions in Rio, Lambe and Lynch were unable to secure a medal, but did their talents and hard work justice by earning a place in such a competitive final.
The Dutch world record holders took gold, Canada took third and China took bronze. Ireland finished sixth after a brave effort.
Sinead Lynch & Claire Lambe 6th through 1500m and have pulled back a second in #rowing final. #TeamIreland
— Team Ireland (@TeamIreland) August 12, 2016
