At the World Rowing Championships last week, Karen Cromie, Ballinamallard, competed in the Adaptive event.

She and her partner, James Roberts, from Wales, came 8th overall and so qualified for the Olympics in Beijing in the double scull.

QUALIFIED

Technically speaking, the boat qualified and the rowers in it may change before 2008 but, it would take a good rower to oust Karen from the stroke seat.

She had a difficult year because of a back injury and had spent some considerable time out of the boat.

Her tenacity is such that the GB team kept a place open for her as her rehabilitation took time.

Karen beat eight crews from other nations and will now be able to concentrate on safe training for the next year.

Karen is based at Portora.

The rowing training starts again on 17th September when anyone interested in joining the club should attend a meeting at 3.45 pm., in the school.

New coaches - even beginner coaches - should also come along.

Contact Derek Holland on 07789288675 for further details.