Understanding “Repechage”
Definition: “Repechage” (pronounced \ˌre-pə-ˈshäzh) is a term used in sports competitions. It refers to a system where participants who did not qualify directly for the next round are given another chance to advance by competing in additional heats or matches.
Origin: The word “repechage” comes from the French word “repêcher,” which means “to fish out” or “to rescue.” It essentially gives competitors a second chance to stay in the competition.
Usage in Sentences:
- Rowing: “After losing in the initial heat, the team managed to secure a spot in the finals through the repechage round.”
- Wrestling: “The wrestler, who was defeated in the quarterfinals, fought his way back to win a bronze medal via the repechage.”
- Fencing: “Despite an early loss, she advanced to the semifinals thanks to the repechage system.”
Examples in Sports:
- In rowing, teams that do not qualify in the first round often get another chance through repechage heats.
- In wrestling, competitors who lose to finalists can compete in repechage rounds to vie for bronze medals.