SCHOOLGIRLS swapped rowing machines for the real thing as they had their first training session with a former world champion.
The nine pupils from Connaught School for Girls, in Connaught Road, Leytonstone, met three-time silver medallist Katherine Grainger MBE at a special session with professional rowers in Fairlop Waters, Barkingside on Monday (March 19).
The children will be competing in the EDF Community Rowing Challenge at Dorney Lake near Windsor later this year, using the Olympic rowing course before the athletes do.
The challenge aims to encourage young people across east London to get involved in sport and stay healthy and active, as well as learning the value of teamwork and self-discipline.
The former Olympian said the challenge was an excellent way to inspire young people and that the children are working hard to win.
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