The Great River Ouse is set to play host to hundreds of crews this weekend, from all over the area. Certain ‘big names’ in the rowing world are missing, whilst others are out in force. With such a diverse spread across more than 20 Junior categories, what are the names to look out for over this weekend?
J17 1X
One of the clubs out en-mass this weekend is The Windsor Boys’ school, and they will certainly look to dominate this category. Their highlight entries here are Bodkin and Workman; both members of the famous Windsor Quad that sculled to a record-breaking victory in the Fawley Challenge Cup. In addition, both of these boys came in second in the Quad at the National Schools’ Regatta last year. As a result of their historical prowess, we would expect standout performances from both scullers, perhaps even a one-two in this event.
J16 1X
Another standout entry for Windsor Boys’ School is Nathu in the J16 singles. Nathu was part of the coxed J15 Quad at Nat Schools at the end of last season, and as expected is in a highly competitive category flooded with Windsor Boy’s entries. Not only will he be looking to rank well this weekend, but this will also be one of the first races for him as a J16 sculler; arguably the most important year so far in his rowing career.
WJ15 4+
One of the events for the younger rowers at Bedford this weekend is the coxed fours for J15 girls. Due to the slight obscurity of the event, only two crews have been entered this year – both from Putney High School. The thing to watch here is not the result, but where these girls will progress to over the season. One crew contains rowers that made the A final in the Octo at the National Schools’ Regatta last year, coming in sixth. As I said there will be no real competition this year for these girls, except the clock.
A general overview of the racing to come
Having mentioned the above as “crews to watch” it is important to bear in mind that this will, for many of the rowers, be one of the first races of the season. As a result, Bedford Small Boats Head will give rowers a chance to race against some local competition but perhaps, more importantly, will provide athletes with the opportunity to prove themselves to their respective coaches as we move toward the larger Tideway Heads further on in the season.
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