Top praise for Eton Dorney

Welcoming almost 40,000 people, the event showcased Dorney Lake's superb facilities for both competitors and spectators.

Denis Oswald, himself an Olympic rower, said: "This was a first-class event. Everything was thought through very carefully and there was a very high standard of volunteers who know about Rowing and are dedicated to the sport it makes all the difference.

"I have a feeling that Eton has set a new standard for the World Championships."

London 2012 Organising Committee Chair Sebastian Coe said: "We have seen the Eton Dorney is truly a world class venue.

"The organisation of these championships at every level has been excellent, from the highest director level through to volunteers.

"We will make fine-tuning adjustments as necessary for the 2012 Games but I am confident we will be hosting the best-ever Rowing event."

Finishing top of the Championship's medal table with four gold medals, one silver and three bronze, Britain's team showed great promise, not least Zac Purchase who won gold in the Single Sculls.

With the majority of British medal winners still under 30, hopes are high for an excellent medal tally not only at Beijing 2008 but also in London 2012.

30 August 2006

Click here to go to the 2006 World Rowing Championships website