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How has the coronavirus pandemic affected the rowing world in terms of Olympic Games and international sports events?

Michell Wandrey

Well, where do I even begin?! The coronavirus pandemic has hit the rowing world like a ton of bricks! The Olympics and international sports events have been left reeling from the impact of this deadly virus. It's safe to say, the world of sports has been turned upside down!

Firstly, let's talk about the Olympics. This worldwide event is the pinnacle of the sporting calendar, with athletes from all over the globe coming together to compete for gold, silver, and bronze medals. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo had to be postponed for a year. Talk about a gut-wrenching disappointment! It was like waking up on Christmas Day and finding out that Santa Claus had been quarantined due to a cough and won't be delivering your presents this year.

The postponement of the Olympics was a huge blow to the rowing community. The harsh reality is that many athletes will be a year older, and their chances of competing will be profoundly affected. Some may not even qualify for the new date. It's like getting all dressed up for a party, only to arrive and find out it's been canceled. The level of anticipation is through the roof, and then it's just over!

But why stop there? The pandemic has wreaked havoc on the international sports events as well. Regattas have been canceled or postponed. Rowing competitions have been held behind closed doors, with no spectators in attendance. It's like going to see your favorite band play, and they decide to perform in an empty stadium. It just doesn't feel the same.

The rowing calendar has been thrown into disarray, with uncertainty hanging over everything. Training has been disrupted, and many athletes have had to adapt to a new way of life. The pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health, too, with the isolation of lockdown taking its toll on athletes' emotional well-being. It's like picking up a new hobby and not being able to do it properly due to numerous challenges that arise.

But let's not forget the positives. The pandemic has brought the sports community closer together than ever before. Despite the obstacles, rowers have continued to train, to persevere and to overcome challenges. They have shown incredible resilience through adversity. It's sort of like when you're stuck in traffic, and someone kindly lets you into their lane. You feel like humanity is still alive and that there's hope for us yet.

The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound impact on the world of rowing. The postponement of the Olympics, the cancellation of regattas, and the uncertainty that accompanies everything are just some of the effects. But despite all the setbacks, many have continued to push forward, to train, and to compete. So, let's focus on the positive and hope that this too shall pass. It's like that rocky boat ride that you eventually make it through, and you feel proud of yourself for not giving up.