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Winning one race, only to turn around within the hour to race a second, Ursula took on the huge challenge of racing in both the Women's Lightweight and Heavyweight Single sculls at the National Selection Regatta #1. A challenge she met quite handily over a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday this past weekend in New Jersey.
In the Open (Heavyweight) singles she made it to the semifinals where she described having a "sluggish first 1,000 meters, then tried to chase her (the leader) down the last 500 meters, but didn't get her." Barely missing the Open finals "fueled her fire to go into the Lightweight final with more zazz." She won the Lightweight final in a time of 7:59, exceeding her nearest rivals by 3 seconds.
But it was in the Open finals where Ursula showed some real "zazz". Missing the A final group, Ursula made her statement in the B final race clocking a 8:23 time - seven seconds faster than the winner of the A final. I know, I know, different race, different competition, but still, Ursula proved it was definitely within her to take both the Light and Heavyweight categories.
By any measure, a very successful weekend. Now she looks to add to her success by teaming up with a new rowing partner to compete in the Women's Lightweight double.
Abbie Broughton from the Pocock Rowing Center was right behind Ursula in the Women's Lightweight singles final and is a superb rower. She also rows in Seattle which makes her a perfect partner in many ways. Ursula is excited to row with her.
And, with the NSR #2 Regatta coming up May 13-15 in New Jersey, they don't have much time to get to know one another. Coach Carlos has to help Ursula and Abbie train and bond quickly so they can row - and win - as one.
Just another exciting challenge!
Related Rowing News: Check out the Speed 5 interview: Sean Wolf and Ursula Grobler at Rowing Illustrated.