Every-Hall and crew mate Bronwen Watson row in a semi-final at 7.30pm tonight and believe they just need to improve from Sunday’s heat to stay in the running for a medal.

Competing at their first Olympics, the Australia duo impressed by finishing a close second to world champions Greece in their heat.

It was a stunning performance after some average form at two World Cup regattas leading into the London Games.

“Our heat was an improvement on our performances in the World Cups, but we know it will take further improvement to advance from the semi,” Every-Hall told the Bendigo Advertiser yesterday.

“We know our plan, feel comfortable in what we need to do and are looking forward to the challenge and opportunity.

“Training has been good. We continue to search for every little ounce of speed we can through refinement and consolidation of our technique.

“Nothing too heavy, just light work to keep us ticking over and ready to roll (today).”

Every-Hall hasn’t attended any Olympic events other than the rowing at Eton Dorney because of her focus on preparing for the semi-final.

Plus, the Australian rowers are based at Royal Holloway College, which is more than 40km from the Olympic Village in East London.

“Each day has been about preparing for Thursday and has involved a row each morning, massage physio and more sleep – sounds pretty boring, I know,” she said.

“It is actually nice being based away from the hype of the main village and even being able to walk down the street and get a coffee is a nice benefit.

“I am hoping to get to some events in week two.”

Every-Hall was visited by her husband Mick and their children Charlie and Harrison on Monday.

She will have a fleeting visit from Mick today, before going into lockdown and resting before the semi-final.

The 34-year-old said messages of support from home had been inspiring as she prepares for one of the biggest races of her career.

“I have had lots of Telstra Heromessages from people, especially from Bendigo, Inglewood and Mildura,” she said.

“It really does give us a big lift to wake up in the morning and know that there are lots of people cheering you along.”

See tomorrow’s Bendigo Advertiser for results.