Although this event is technically a rung below the top level of racing at BUCS Regatta, we often see some real quality in this event, perhaps from top sculling universities who enter their second best sculler or from athletes who are beginning their journey on the university scene.
Helpfully, no speculation is required when reading the entry list, with each sculler named, giving us a great idea of who the top contenders might be.
Jamie Gare
Representing Bath University, Jamie Gare placed second in this event last year behind his teammate Angus Pollock, who this year is competing in the championship category. This opens the intermediate event right up for Gare who will have his sights set on one thing. For Gare, last season culminated in a Saturday finish at Henley Royal in the Prince of Wales, a great result for him and his club despite the slightly fortuitous draw enabling the result. Although he has been in and out of the boat with injury this season, Gare certainly has the ability to go all the way in this event.
Felix Rummel
Finishing third behind Gare last year, the Manchester University athlete Rummel is returning for more and a shot at the win. The gap was previously five seconds which while significant is without doubt a margin which can be reversed in a year.
Sam Moleney
Part of the World Class Start squad based in Leeds under coach Matt Paul, Moleney finished fourth in the B final of this event last year. With another year’s training under his belt his eyes will presumably be set on at least making the A final, then, who knows.
Aidan Graham
Hailing from the University of St. Andrews, the former Aberdeen Schools athlete Aidan Graham had a decent season last year which finished with a qualification for Henley Royal in the Prince of Wales Challenge Cup.
Prediction
With such an array of athletes and clubs entried, the above represents only a flavour of the athletes we could see at the top end of the event. That said, I would put money on Gare of Bath University taking the win if he is on form, with Rummel behind. For bronze it’s anyone’s guess, with the others previously mentioned plus athletes from Queen’s, Reading, Newcastle, Surrey, and others all with a shot of an upset.
BUCS Images credit: Drew Smith
Drew Smith Photography
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