While a dying discipline on the international stage, lightweight rowing is still going strong on the university stage. With 5 entries, all from universities with lots of pedigree in lightweight rowing, the men’s championship lightweight coxless fours will be an incredibly tight event.
Newcastle University
Newcastle University usually have some of the quickest lightweights in the country, and I would expect this year to be no different. Having won this specific event many times in the last few years, and with the advantage of being on home water, this Newcastle four will be aiming for the win. Last year Newcastle sent a lightweight eight to the Head of the River on the tideway, which beat many universities’ heavyweight ‘A’ crews. These rowers will have been completing Angelo Savarino’s tough training program, and should be primed to go very fast.
University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh are another club with pedigree in lightweight rowing. While it appears the golden age of Edinburgh lightweights has passed, athletes such as Dale Flockheart are still in-and-around, and should inspire these younger rowers to perform their best.
Imperial College London
Not usually a club to enter a lightweight event, Imperial College normally integrate their lighties into their main heavyweight squad. However, this entry from them suggests they currently have a strong group of lightweights. Head Coach Peter Hardcastle must fancy their chances of winning.
Durham University
Durham University are always fast, and have produced some good lightweight crews in the past. This four is stroked by Kit Barrow, brother of former CUBC lightweight, Hal Barrow. Also former lightweight, Durham coach Will Fletcher should have been able to impart some of his knowledge learnt from 8 years on the GB rowing team.
University of Nottingham
Finally, the University of Nottingham also have a four entered. Nottingham have a specific lightweight program, and usually target top places at BUCS events. Stroked by seasoned lightweight Luke Knight, this four should be on for a great performance.
I predict a win for Newcastle University. Their experience in producing fast lightweight fours is greater than all the others entered. However, I would expect all crews to be pretty close, with Imperial in second and Nottingham in third.
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