Cover image credit @teamGB
This is your JRN Weekly briefing covering the developments of the last week in three key areas. If you have a story to share, contact our news desk at juniorrowingnews@gmail.com
Covid-19 Update:
“In the space of a month, the United Kingdom has been transformed beyond recognition”
Jon Kelly, BBC Stories
It has become clear in recent days that the epicentre of this virus is no longer Wuhan, China, but rather Western Europe and North America. An epidemiological shift that took place in the blink of an eye, but the effects of which will be felt for months.
As of Sunday evening, there are just under 20,000 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the UK, with over 1,200 deaths. At the daily Number 10 Press Conference, Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick was joined by Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Harries who warned that current measures could last for “three to sixth months… perhaps even longer.”
It came as Mr Jenrick said that all parts of the UK are on “an emergency footing” and that we should “all take heed of medical advice” as around the UK people fail to comply with quarantine restrictions.
Covid-19 has also penetrated the heart of the British Government, with Mr Johnson and Mr Hancock both in isolation as a result of testing positive for the virus.
In a statement released on Twitter, the Prime Minister announced that on the advice of the Chief Medical Officer he will be leading the “top team” to beat the Coronavirus remotely.
Meanwhile, there have been a variety of responses to the pandemic threat around the country. Ranging from a gathering of 25 which “left police in absolute shock”, to YouTube influencers who are utilising their platform’s to encourage people to remain at home.
British Rowing:
“British Rowing reserves may be used to help support the sport at this difficult time.”
British Rowing, Press Release March 26th 2020
This week saw no shift in the official stance of British Rowing, but rather series of measures were announced which – it is hoped – will limit the impact of Covid-19 on our sport.
Most interestingly, it was announced on Thursday that British Rowing reserves may be used to “support the sport at this difficult time”. It comes after British Rowing Chairman Mark Davies said that the strong financial position that the body found itself in would allow funds to be siphoned to support grass-roots rowing.
In other news, British Rowing continued to deliver online content this week alongside the launch of the new #GoRowIndoor newsletter which aims to give those lucky enough to have an ergo as a quarantine buddy ideas on how to get the most out of their sessions.
With clubs in the UK closed for the foreseeable future, BR also offered ideas on pragmatic solutions to support clubs, drawing on ideas from clubs across the country. Some of the suggestions include weekly newsletters, a team Strava, and online support networks.
It is hoped such measures will increase cohesiveness not only within clubs but within the greater rowing community as well.
International Rowing:
“I would like to report to you on the events in the past hours and days that led us to the joint decision we took yesterday, to postpone the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.”
IOC President in an open letter to IOC Members
Although the countdown clock on the British Rowing website continues to count the hours until the opening ceremony of Tokyo 2020, it was confirmed this week that there will be no athletes on the starting line in Japan this year.
In a statement, the IOC president said that the decision had been taken to “postpone the Olympic Games” this includes the Paralympic Games.
It is currently thought that the most realistic timetable for a rescheduled Tokyo Games is July 2021. This has not, however, been confirmed by either the IOC or FISA.
Much like domestic Rowing Bodies, FISA has now shifted its attention to proactive advice to prevent the spread of Covid-19. Such measures were compelled by FISA’s Sports Medicine Commission, whose full article can be found here.
Covid-19 also continues to cause disruption both domestically and internationally. This week has seen an outpouring of content on social media as teams reflect on the year that has come to a premature end.
The cancellation of Henley Royal Regatta was also confirmed on the 24th of March, causing huge disappointment around the globe. This was not unexpected, but nevertheless was a major moment for the rowing world, as it became clear that this virus is here to stay.
That’s all for this week’s briefing. Be sure to tune in next week for the latest news, advice, and analysis.
Until then, keep up with our other Covid-19 content on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Stay safe.
Ed Evans
Opinions Editor
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