22 Mar 2011

Rowing sisters up for top honour

6:58 am on 22 March 2011

New Zealand's most succesful rowing crew Caroline and Georgina Evers-Swindell have been named as one of the 5 finalists for the most prestigious medal in rowing, the Thomas Keller Medal.

The double sculling sisters retired in 2008 after winning 2 Olympic gold medals and 3 World titles.

The award has been around since 1990 and it honours the best in the sport, recognizing not only those who have reached the top, but also, and more importantly, those who have shown exemplary sportsmanship and a legendary aspect throughout their career and otherwise.

The award will be presented at the final World Rowing Cup in Lucerne in July.

The winner of the Thomas Keller Medal receives a lifetime accreditation to all FISA World Rowing Championships as well as the 18-carat gold medal.

The medal may be awarded to someone up to five years after their official retirement.

No New Zealander has won the medal before.

Georgina is now married and is known as Georgina Earl.