On Saturday 11th May, some of the country’s top J18 boy’s crews will be competing in Bedford Regatta. This will provide key experience ahead of these crews facing off once again at the National Schools Regatta start line. It’s a small draw of four crews, so the competition is sure to be fierce.
Latymer Upper School Boat Club
Ever since the School’s Head of the River, Latymer have been looking to step on into the season. They have had success elsewhere, with comprehensive wins recently at Wallingford Regatta in the coxed four. They also competed at Hammersmith Regatta last weekend where the crew were able to pick up a win over St Paul’s School Boat Club by a length and a half. Latymer will be fierce this weekend and will be looking to replicate their success so far in the eight.
Abingdon School
Abingdon too has had a positive start to the season. Since their first eight came 12th at School’s Head earlier in the year the school have been looking to make up time. They have shown some individual impressive performances at GB Trials this April, where the pair of Bayfield and Forrest took an impressive win in the B Final. The crew also had an impressive performance at Eton Invitational Regatta on the same weekend, winning the B Final. It looks like the crew has stepped on and will be searching for a win this weekend before the high stakes of NSR.
Bedford School Boat Club
Bedford School Boat Club are slowly but surely becoming an established force in junior rowing once again. Their impressive J16 and J17 crews last year have set them up for a dominant regatta season, especially after also sending a pair to GB Trials earlier this year. They had a top 10 performance at the School’s Head as well as an impressive run at Eton Invitational Regatta where they ended up 3rd in the B final.
Norwich School Boat Club
Norwich School are looking like a strong crew this season. After taking the gold at School’s Head in the first eight category, they will be pressing on for another medal this Saturday. They also show some impressive individual talent after sending Conway to GB Trials. It is clear to see that there is power in this crew and they will be looking to consolidate this with a win at Bedford.
Prediction
With their talent and depth in the squad, it is very much Norwich’s race this coming Saturday. However, with Bedford on home waters and a strong Abingdon crew in the mix, this event will be tough to call. My prediction is, however:
- Norwich School Boat Club
- Bedford School Boat Cub
- Abingdon School Boat Club
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