Alumna Sickler Rows to Gold at World Championships
8/28/2006 12:00:00 AM | Rowing
ETON, England -- Former University of Michigan rower Brett Sickler (2002-05) garnered a gold medal in the U.S. women's eight on Sunday (Aug. 27) at the 2006 FISA World Rowing Championships. The American boat led wire to wire en route to a world's best time (5:55.50).
With Sickler in the bow seat, the U.S. shell rocketed off the start, grabbing a two-seat lead in the first 250 meters of the race. The crew continued to build on its advantage during the next 750 meters, taking nearly a length lead over Germany at the midway point of the race. With a strong tailwind and choppy conditions, the U.S. encountered a slight bobble just after the 1,000-meter mark. However, the crew maintained control and was able to keep Germany at a safe distance the rest of the way down the course to win by a half length. Germany finished second in 5:57.29, and Australia held off China for the bronze medal.
Sickler also competed in the women's double sculls event at the World Championships. She placed sixth in the B final.
Three other Michigan alumnae participated for Team Canada at the World Championships. Heather Mandoli (2001-04) and Katie Reynolds (2001-04) reached the A final in the women's eight, earning a fifth-place finish. Cristin McCarty (2002, 2004-06) rowed in the women's four, placing seventh overall.
2006 FISA World Championships Site
Team Sites: USRowing | Rowing Canada
Contact: Matt Trevor (734) 763-4423
Players Mentioned
