Byrne and Doyle were considered huge contenders in the double sculls, having won silver at the World Rowing Championships in 2019, but they finished fourth and last in their heat in 6:14.40. “It was okay, the first race is done and now I’m focusing on the next one and not thinking too far ahead,” she said. “It was a comfortable win and it was good to get a race out of the way. “I read all the messages and soak in all the positive vibes from home,” she said. The 39-year-old will be back in action in the quarter finals, which get under way from 1am Irish time on Monday.

Source: Irish Independent July 23, 2021 06:39 UTC