ROWER Joanie Delgaco had to pass through a needle to be where she is right now. But it is not a comfortable place. After topping the repechage to get back into the race and into the quarterfinals, she may have to produce a performance of exceptional grit if she hopes to advance further in the regatta race of the Paris Olympics.
She returns to the posh Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium on Tuesday afternoon for perhaps the biggest race of her life. At stake are three slots to the semifinals and if she survives the challenge she will have a chance for a medal.
But many feel her chances are basically zero.
READ Delgaco tops heat in rowing repechage, makes quarterfinals
She is drawn into a group that includes no less than the reigning Olympic champion and with them are some of the best the sport could offer.
In her quarterfinals heat are Tokyo gold medalist Emma Twigg from New Zealand, former Under-23 world champion Katharina Jansen of Switzerland, Virginia Diaz of Spain, Diana Dymchenko of Azerbaijan and Jovana Arsic of Serbia.
Twigg, also a former world champion, four-time silver winner and three-bronze holder, had a remarkable 7:13.97 clocking in taking the gold in Tokyo.
But there’s no fear for the 26-year-old Iriga native, who already has posted a rare accolade: she is one of only four Asians who made the Top 24 of the women’s single sculls at the Games.
Top Asian finisher
Her target is to be the top Asian and also make the Top 20 overall. Then if she makes the Top 12, she moves into the the semifinals.
But her record does not match her belief in her abilities. She has clockings of 7:55.00 in the repechage and 7:56.26 in the heats, way slower than the favorites. Filipino officials told Delgaco to stay focused, give her all and hope for the best.
Who knows, the gods of rowing may smile upon her.
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