Although they took bronze in the 2007 World Championships, a medal in the women's eight would be a bonus for Great Britain.

The USA and Australia are likely to be battling it out for gold, with GB one of four other likely finalists but in the larger boat classes the field tends to be far closer.

The bulk of the crew came together in 2005, coxed by former teacher Caroline O'Connor.

But Sarah Winckless (top right), a bronze-medallist in the double in Athens, is a recent addition to the eight after missing out on selection for the GB sculling boats. At 34, she is the oldest member of the GB rowing team in Beijing.

Winners of the heats on 10 August go straight into the final, at 1010 BST the following Sunday but GB are likely to have to race the repechage on 12 August to be sure of their spot.