Fresh off an eighth place finish in Edmonton, Andrew Yorke is looking for an Olympic nomination in Chicago this weekend. He gave Taylor Reid the low down.
Taylor Reid: It must be nice racing so close to home. How is this Grand Final different from others that you have done over seas?
Andrew Yorke: Mainly just easier travel. There’s less jet lag and food that you are more accustomed to. The language, [driving] direction and having been to Chicago many times makes it a great place for me to be racing.
TR: After your great performance last week in Edmonton what kind of result are you looking for in Chicago?
AY: A top eight to get that Olympic nomination.
TR: This is a very important year for you with the Olympics coming up next year. How does the Grand Final fit into the selection criteria for the Olympics?
AY: A top eight this weekend would earn me a nomination for the Olympic team. I’d still have to prove fitness early next year but it would definitely put me in a good position heading into the games.
TR: What have you done to recover from the race last week and stay sharp for Chicago?
AY: I took it easy for a few days. I spent some time with family and did just light training for a few days. Then we added some intensity later in the week–just trying to be physically and mentally fresh!
TR: Do you have any races lined up after Chicago or is the season over after this?
AY: I’ll be heading to Cozumel 10 days after Chicago to race a world cup where I will end the season. I will still be trying to solidify my Olympic ranking.