Fla celebrates title won by rowers from community project

Antonio Maria Filho

The Globe

If, today, the red-and-black nation—estimated at around 30 million Brazilians—has the privilege of beating its chest and declaring that Flamengo was the champion on land and sea last season, it should be grateful and honored by rowers Francisco Carvalho and Pedro Carvalho, who, helmed by Maurício de Abreu, defeated the favorites Vasco da Gama last Sunday in Lagoa, in the two-man rowing event, which had been sub judice since last September. Although they share the last name Carvalho, Francisco and Pedro are not brothers like Ronaldo and Ricardo, two-time Pan American rowing champions in the two-man rowing event, whose names are inscribed in the glorious history of Flamengo and Brazilian rowing itself, but it almost seems like they are, such is their close bond.

The new champions come from humble backgrounds: the first lives in the Rocinha favela, and the other in the Rio das Pedras community. Still emotional, they confessed that they never imagined they would face such a difficult mission.

"When we crossed the finish line, I couldn't believe it. The night before the race was one of those nights where I slept poorly. I kept waking up, thinking it was time to go to Flamengo's garage," said Francisco, 20, the boat's paddler (who sets the rhythm for the rowing).

Technician bets on a promising future

Pedro, 23, also experienced difficult times:

- Only those who go through it know. We think: if we win, Flamengo will win the Rio title. If we lose…

Indeed, a lot of responsibility for two beginners. The title fired up the red-and-black rowing team.

"The 2008 season starts this Sunday. Our atmosphere is different now, thanks to these two kids. We were champions, and everyone is filled with motivation. We need to build on this momentum and think even more about the future," said coach Marcão.

Francisco and Pedro aren't used to fame. The title hasn't sunk in yet. When they're told they've both made history at the club, they don't know what it means.

Pedro, a waiter at a restaurant in Barra, had to work normally the day before the final because he couldn't be excused, as another employee had to miss work. His only regret is that his parents didn't get to see his victory:

- I really wanted to, but my mom had to take my dad to the doctor. We'll celebrate later.

Francisco's mother was very anxious and preferred to stay at home.

"It was better this way. Knowing she would be at the rowing stadium, my anxiety would be even greater. I couldn't disappoint her," he said.

The two are now enjoying the glory of the title, but they make a point of remembering that they came from the Remo na Escola project and that they were discovered by Chicão, former Brazilian champion.

"He picked us up at the André Maurois State School in Gávea. Now it's time to think ahead and try to one day make it to the Brazilian national team in the lightweight category (up to 72 kilos)."

Marcão bets on both:

"This victory shows their determination. It's about always thinking big. It's a two-way street that can achieve exceptional results. You just have to work hard."

The victory of the two-with red-black team was categorical.

"Vasco took the lead, and it looked like the 500-meter race would only be 600 meters. In the XNUMX, we caught up and overtook them, finishing with a huge gap. An undisputed victory," said the helmsman.

The coach and crew members are keen to highlight the work of Carlos Maria, aka Peru, a former helmsman with extensive experience.

"They say that when things were tough, Buck would call Peru. He'd show up and help make decisions. This time, inexplicably, he called me and asked for help. He helped immensely. He acted as a skipper and really trained the boat. He weighed far more than a helmsman (50kg), since he weighs 75kg, when he gave his place to Maurício, the boat took off," says Marcão.

One of the most striking things about this achievement is the memory of coach Guilherme do Eirado Silva, known as Buck, whose statue, located on the boat ramp and on the edge of Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, is still revered today by all rowers.

"Buck must be happy. Laughing out loud. This one's for you, Buck!" said Marcão.