The Women’s Intermediate Lightweight Quads category has historically been a sparsely-populated category at BUCS Head. For this reason, it is often difficult to pinpoint crews that will certainly supply entries. With this preview being written before sight of the draw, the clubs covered are based on those who have competed previously in this event. That said, as with previous years, what the category may lack in quantity, it will undoubtedly make up for in sculling quality.
Reading University BC
Undoubtedly unsurprising to many, Reading topped the table in this event last year, led by lightweight sculling sensation Lara Brittain. With this in mind, whoever is in the boat, Reading will surely be looking to replicate their success this year if they travel up from the Thames to the Tyne once again. They are the favourites for the win in this event in my book.
Nottingham University BC
Having previously sent a lightweight quad to BUCS Head, we may see Nottingham again this year. If this is the case, they may be coming into this race as underdogs, but that’s not to say they won’t perform well and potentially be in the running for a podium finish.
Durham University BC
With three DUBC women’s lightweight athletes – Izzy Sellers, Caroline Rijkse, and Mia Vickerman – undergoing the gruelling yet impressive process of GB trials this season, if they have a fourth lightweight in their squad, Durham could well supply a wild card entry here, although this is by no means certain. What’s more, having Tyne-based training sessions in their training programme will inevitably inject some confidence into Durham athletes across the board. If they do race this category, Durham’s lightweight women could certainly find themselves in contention for a medal – watch this space.
Prediction
Lightweight events are slightly trickier to predict, as margins tend to be finer with their being less entries on the day. Nevertheless, by sticking to the stats and the historic superiority of their women’s lightweight programme, I would not be surprised to see Reading University top the podium on the day. However, I have no doubt it won’t be smooth sailing, especially if crews from Nottingham, Durham, Exeter, Newcastle, or potentially Surrey have anything to do with it.
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