Rowing ace pulls in European medal

The annual event saw competitors from all over the continent compete on Concept 2 indoor rowing machines, racing side by side over a distance of 2,000m in Kettwig.

Mitchell had shown great form over winter training, but a four-week illness over the Christmas period influenced the medal colour he was to win.

Mitchell set off hard next to the Spanish favourite, but rating higher, his rival pulled an immediate lead. By 500m they were matching each other stroke for stroke, but his rival’s initial eight-metre lead remained.

The Spaniard led by nine metres coming into the closing 500m and despite a sprint finish, Mitchell was unable to claw back the deficit and had to settle for second in 6mins 24sec.

Bexhill Rowing Club is hosting the ‘Sussex Mile’ at its seafront clubhouse on Sunday from 10am-3pm. More than 100 entries have been received so there will be plenty of excitement throughout the day.

Spectators are welcome and there will be refreshments for anyone wanting to warm up while watching the young and older competitors battle it out alongside each other over a mile.