'Lay Down Sally' misses the boat

Controversial Australian oars-woman Sally Robbins has missed selection for the Beijing Olympics after Rowing Australia announced their squads yesterday.

Robbins, dubbed "Lay Down Sally" after she stopped rowing towards the end of the eights final at the 2004 Athens Games, had been trialling mainly in the double scull in an attempt to qualify for the Games in August.

"Obviously, I'm disappointed that I won't have the chance to represent my country in the double scull and have the opportunity to qualify and compete at my third Olympic Games in Beijing," Robbins said.

The 26-year-old had struggled to find her best form and was paired with a different partner during recent trials to determine the best combination in the double scull.