1988 World Lightweight Championships- Milan Italy

1988 Programme Cover

Whilst the Olympic team in 1988 had more than its fair share of controversy, the women's lightweight four also had more than they would have liked. Virginia Lee was originally selected in this crew but was forced to withdraw. She has since made a comeback in 1992 with a gold in the women's lightweight four.

Following the weight problems in the 1987 team, strict new requirements on achieving weight prior to departure for overseas were introduced. The women's lightweight four failed to make weight at the appointed time and were withdrawn from the team.

Following a successful appeal to councillors the crew was reinstated. At the Championships they were advised that as there were only five entries in their event it was to be a first and final. The wait was agonising but due to a pre race collision with Britain on the day of the finals they had their wait extended for two hours for repairs.

Fortunately for them, their endeavours were rewarded in a great race with China. The Chinese showed their technique and awesome strength at the 1500m mark when they powered past Australia. The Chinese performance was a great result for the development of the sport in Asia and for the lightweight movement.

The men's lightweight four rowed the race of their lives in the semi final rowing down the Swedes to earn their place in the final. They battled well in the final but finished sixth. The crew had improved markedly during the last part of their preparation. Despite ARC requirements that all team members return to Australia within two weeks of the finals David Power defied the ruling and had his ticket cancelled.

Results—Women's

Women's Lightweight Single Scull

Final B: 7th SUI, 8th YUG, 9th GBR, 10th CAN, 11th SWE, 12th POR
Final: 1st USA, 2nd FRG, 3rd ROM, 4th NZL, 5th ITA, 6th NOR

Women's Lightweight Double Scull

Final B: 7th USA, 8th SUI,
Final: 1st NED, 2nd FRA, 3rd GBR, 4th CAN, 5th FRG, 6th CHN

Women's Lightweight Four

Final: 1st CHN, 2nd AUS, 3rd FRG, 4th USA, 5th GBR
This was the first FISA gold medal won by China.