“On April 22, 2013, Rowing Canada Aviron’s Spring Trials events kicked off at Burnaby Lake, BC in conjunction with the host Burnaby Lake Rowing Club. Approximately 120 athletes at the senior, junior and under-23 levels competed in the trials. The results are used as one of the performance measurements for selection to National Teams. Manitoba’s Paul Thiessen placed 4th overall in the Men’s Single Scull, competing against many National Team Senior athletes from Victoria and some of the best in Western Canada. His success brought forth an invitation to Victoria to join in selections to the U-23 National Team. “It was great to race against the VTC guys in both the single and double. It is always fun lining up against them. The result was good enough to get me invited to try out for the u-23 team. I will be heading out to Victoria to start the selection process next week,” says Thiessen. Another Manitoba star, Marrianne Bergman, placed 3rd in the Women’s Single Scull at the same regatta – truly an impressive result. Marianne’s strength and determination has allowed her to achieve her goals in the sport, while always going above and beyond expectations. Bringing on a personal strength coach, intense discipline and hard work, she has persevered through injuries and difficult situations, although nothing seems to be holding this champion back. “The past month of practice has been outstanding, and I am definitely getting faster and stronger daily. I’m pretty excited to see what is going to happen this summer and into the fall. I’ve already put in 1,300 kms, so I feel pretty blessed and lucky to be here,” says Bergman. Both Thiessen and Bergman are inspirational athletes in our province who showcase what dedication, hard work and perseverance can attain. Wishing them all the best in the 2013 season.”
