...which I have been looking for here on RU-vid, but without luck. PS 2 days ago my friend and colleague here came down to my office, very proud, with pictures of him and the kids together with Ekaterina Karsten, at a long-distance regatta some months ago! It's a pity the W1X isn't much represented on RU-vid (so if you have it... ;^).
Indeed, a great race! The arrival of another legend in the shape of Thomas Lange! However in my opinion the greatest ever sculling race (that I have seen) was the final of the women's singles at the Olympics at Sydney 2000. It's a bit like the Searles gold in the 2+ at Barcalona. No matter how many times I watch it I still can't quite believe the Neykova (spelling?!?) loses!
It's reminiscent of Hacker's style. The way he loads up off the catch then lets the finish bobble out. Karppinen's style looks more fluid and powerful as a result (in my opinion). Not that I'm trying to knock the guy. But for Karpinnen he'd have been a legend!
...well, maybe the other way round ;^) but yes: the first time I saw Hacker I thought of Kolbe. Karppinen's style was more standard, and you're right about the finish: but consider how much taller and more powerful he was than Kolbe and you'll appreciate Kolbe's effectiveness.
