Tsourtsoulas wins gold at World Rowing Under 23 Championships
Evan Tsourtsoulas member of Greek National Team

Aug. 2, 2007
STRATHCLYDE, Scotland — Former Marietta College rower Evan Tsourtsoulas (Kastoria, Greece) came one step closer to representing the Pioneer Navy at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China, this past weekend (July 29) when he helped his native Greece win the gold in the Senior B Lightweight Men's 4 (BLM4-) at the World Rowing Under 23 Championships.

Tsourtsoulas, a citizen of both Greece and the United States, bypassed his senior season with Marietta to chase his dream of rowing in the Olympics.

"Evan is a tough young man," said Coach Chris Pucella. "To medal three straight years at the Under 23 Championships is a testament to his work ethic and tenacity. We wish him the best of luck as he continues to chase his Olympic dream."

Originally recruited by John Bancheri in 2003, Tsourtsoulas helped Marietta win three Dad Vail medals during his collegiate career. The Pioneers' Freshman 8 won a gold medal in 2004, while the Varsity 8 took home a bronze in 2005 before winning gold under Coach Pucella in 2006.

Training under 2006 International Federation of Rowing Associations (FISA) Coach of the Year Gianni Postillioni, Tsourtsoulas has had a busy summer. The five-year member of the Greek National Team has traveled around the world, competing in Italy, Austria, Switzerland and Scotland, the host of this year's Under 23 Championships.

Tsourtsoulas, who won a silver medal in the Men's Pair (BM2-) in 2005 and in the BLM4- in 2006, joined teammates Apostolos Kourkoumpas, Nikolaos Gkountoulas and Apostolos Gkountoulas on top of the medal stand after a solid weekend of racing. Greece won its opening heat (6:22.33) and semifinal (5:59.89) to set up the six-boat Grand Final. The Greeks made it three straight wins and secured the goal after crossing the line in 6:04.10. Austria (6:04.50) placed second, and Switzerland (6:05.32) finished third, while the Netherlands (6:05.52), Italy (6:05.72) and France (6:11.02) rounded out fourth through sixth, respectively.

Tsourtsoulas and his countrymen now return to Greece to make their final preparations for the World Championships, which will be held in Munich, Germany, from Aug. 25 through Sept. 2. The Greeks need to place in the top 11 in order to qualify for the 2008 Olympic Games.