There has been a huge amount of interest in tomorrow’s CRNZ trial between Lisa Carrington and Aimee Fisher. Whilst we do not ordinarily publicise internal trials, we are providing the following information for spectators and media to allow the NZ public to experience this special moment and to ensure the fairest race for the athletes involved.
This is an extraordinary opportunity to watch two exceptional athletes compete locally and we encourage media and spectators to enjoy the race. CRNZ’s absolute priority is to give both athletes the opportunity to race their best race with minimal distraction. We are also doing our best to run this process in a way that recognises and upholds the mana of all the people involved. We ask spectators and media to be understanding of the immense level of pressure on the athletes and their teams.
Purpose of the Trial
The purpose of this trial is to select the athlete to represent Aotearoa at the 2022 Sprint World Championship in the Women’s K1 500m event. Only one spot is available per nation. The trial is run under the CRNZ World Champs Selection Policy and the CRNZ Selection Regulations. As with all of our selection processes, this trial is designed to be as clear and transparent as possible so that our athletes have the opportunity to compete fairly for selection.
Format
The Open K1 trial process is run as a “best of three” series. In the Women’s K1 500m event, the first two races have already taken place. Aimee Fisher won the first race, and Lisa Carrington won the second. As such, a third race is necessary. Race 3 is scheduled to take place on Thursday 28 April at 10am. Please note that this is a provisional time because the trial is being run in between Rowing NZ’s Junior Trial Races. Any updates for media and spectators will be advised via social media.
We are doing our absolute best to ensure the race runs fairly. In particular:
- We are working closely with Rowing NZ to ensure we have a clear window without wash or traffic.
- The race is officiated by an international official and official finish cameras.
- CRNZ Selectors will be present to ensure that any exceptional circumstances that take place during the race can be assessed and addressed appropriately under the Selection Regulations.
- If conditions make the scheduled time or course unsuitable, the race may be run at a different time or in a different location (most likely the waterski lane on the other side of Lake Karapiro).
Spectator and Media Considerations
The best place to watch the racing live will be from the grandstand seating under the finish tower next to the Don Rowlands Centre at Lake Karapiro. That will provide an opportunity to cheer for the athletes as they approach the finish line, and to observe the finish of the race.
There may be an opportunity for media to speak with one or both athletes after the race. This will take place on the wooden pontoon immediately in front of the finish tower and grandstand.
Please note that the CRNZ HP Centre is closed to the public due to COVID protocols.
For those unable to make it in person, we understand that the race may be broadcast live on NZ television and web streaming services. We will give updates on this via social media.
