The picturesque streets of Paris are set to welcome the rhythmic splash of oars, as five American rowers clinched their spots on the U.S. Olympic Rowing Team. Kara Kohler, Jessica Thoennes, Azja Czajkowski, Oliver Bub, and Bill Bender emerged victorious during the final day of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Team Trials at Nathan Benderson Park, earning the privilege to discover the beauty of a Paris fall.
Stellar Performances Seal the Deal
Kara Kohler, a seasoned competitor who finished fourth in the women's single sculls at the 2023 World Rowing Championships, secured her spot with a commanding performance. Clocking a time of 8:04.01 over the 2-kilometer course, Kohler left her competitors trailing, crossing the finish line six seconds ahead of Margaret Fellows.
In the women's pair event, Jessica Thoennes and Azja Czajkowski displayed impeccable synchronization, finishing first in 7:37.62. Their triumph was underscored by their determination, having been cut from the U.S. selection camp just 10 days prior.
For the men's pair, Oliver Bub and Bill Bender combined their strengths to win in 6:54.64, punching their tickets to the Paris Games and fulfilling lifelong dreams.
A Journey of Perseverance and Passion
Kara Kohler's journey to the Olympics has been one of resilience and growth. Despite failing to make the team at the 2012 London Games and finishing third in the "B" final at the 2020 Tokyo Games, Kohler never lost sight of her dream.
“It’s a big show, but I want to go there and I want to perform,” said the 33-year-old Kohler, reflecting on her previous Olympic experiences and looking forward to Paris with renewed determination.
Jessica Thoennes echoed similar sentiments, expressing her joy at fulfilling her dream of becoming an Olympian. “I’m beyond thrilled that I get to do it in pairs with Azja,” she said, highlighting the importance of teamwork and shared aspirations.
Dreams Realized and Lessons Learned
Oliver Bub, whose parents rowed and introduced him to the sport, described qualifying for the Olympics as a "dream come true." Despite the challenging weather conditions on Sunday, Bub and Bender trusted their fitness and determination to secure their spots.
“It means a lot,” said Bub, emphasizing the significance of his achievement and acknowledging the hard work that went into reaching this milestone.
Looking Ahead to Paris
Theirs were the only three boats guaranteed immediate berths in the rowing portion of the Paris Games, scheduled for July 27-August 4. Winners in other categories will have another opportunity to qualify for the World Rowing Final Olympic & Paralympic Qualification Regatta in Lucerne, Switzerland, with the complete Olympic team set to be named on June 7.
As these five athletes prepare to represent the United States on the world stage, they carry with them not only their individual dreams but also the collective hopes and aspirations of a nation. With the backdrop of a Parisian fall awaiting them, the stage is set for a spectacle of skill, determination, and unwavering passion.