Two Cumbrian rowers came away with medals from a world championship.
The 2024 World Indoor Rowing Championships were held in Prague on February 23 and 24.
People could either compete online from the comfort of their own home or live in Prague.
Lakeland Rowing Club member Celia Whittam, who competed from her Troutbeck kitchen, raced in the same event in which she won last year – the Women’s Open Weight 500m (65-69 age group).
As last year, she lead from the start and had a convincing win in 1.49.5 minutes, beating Penelope Vincent-Sweet of France, a former Olympian, by 3.4secs.
Celia said: “This year I had struggled with training so was dubious as to how well I would perform in my race.
“I was surprised that managed to take the lead from the start and it was my determination to beat Penelope that kept me pushing to the end. It was the toughest race I have done so far but to be World Champion again is a great reward.”
Sam Ayers was competing in the O2 Arena in Prague, where she competed in the Women’s Lightweight category, 50-54 years.
She competed in the 2,000m and 500m events coming away one World and two European silvers and matching her PB in the 500m in a time of 1.42.6 minutes. Sam also competed online in the USA Indoor 500m championships a few weeks ago, coming away with an age-group gold.
She said: “It was fantastic to be at the live venue in Prague. The atmosphere was buzzing and nothing beats competing alongside top athletes.
“I was soundly beaten by current world record holder Justine Reston (GB) in the 2,000m and Norwegian, Lillian Dramsdahl in the 500m. However I had a good race in both and am pleased with my results.”
