Monday evening in the middle of the exam month, what kind of coach sets a 2k test at this time? All part of the challenge..
First off was the women's squad and it was immediately clear that the lesson had been learned from March, the improved focus was visible from the moment the athletes stepped into the room. Some good scores mean that the physiology is where it needs to be for the regatta season. This is essential as it cannot be obtained overnight, it has to be worked for over months, months that we no longer have. Irish Champs are now 8 weeks away.
The Men's did very well in March so it was always going to be tough to match that standard. The fact that there were a large number of PB's demonstrates that March was no flash in the pan.
Overall some may feel disappointed with not reaching a target or getting a PB, but when one takes into account the total lack of preparation for this test, the distraction of exams and the fact that speed work won't be done until July the squads are in a good place physically. This fact is reinforced by looking back at where individuals and the squads were 12 months ago. In October 2011 I set the ergo standards for Novices, Intermediates and Seniors. I suspect that many thought they were unobtainable, through hard work they are being met. It is an exciting prospect to think what the squads' physical benchmarks will be at the start of the 2013/14 season.
As a reward here is some Australian rowing porn (look at that length....):
First off was the women's squad and it was immediately clear that the lesson had been learned from March, the improved focus was visible from the moment the athletes stepped into the room. Some good scores mean that the physiology is where it needs to be for the regatta season. This is essential as it cannot be obtained overnight, it has to be worked for over months, months that we no longer have. Irish Champs are now 8 weeks away.
The Men's did very well in March so it was always going to be tough to match that standard. The fact that there were a large number of PB's demonstrates that March was no flash in the pan.
Overall some may feel disappointed with not reaching a target or getting a PB, but when one takes into account the total lack of preparation for this test, the distraction of exams and the fact that speed work won't be done until July the squads are in a good place physically. This fact is reinforced by looking back at where individuals and the squads were 12 months ago. In October 2011 I set the ergo standards for Novices, Intermediates and Seniors. I suspect that many thought they were unobtainable, through hard work they are being met. It is an exciting prospect to think what the squads' physical benchmarks will be at the start of the 2013/14 season.
As a reward here is some Australian rowing porn (look at that length....):
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