Given that this is the first main regatta of the 2021-22 season, it is hard to say exactly how much ‘endurance based’ head racing results will dictate the placings over the shorter 2000 km distance. Regardless, this season has already seen some squads demonstrating a clear dominance above the rest, and it will be exciting to see which combination can come together most effectively after two prior days of racing and put down the fastest performance.
University of London Boat Club
Off the back of a win at WeHorr and a dominant performance in this event at BUCS 2021, it is no surprise to see that ULBC has chosen to enter two boats into this event. This demonstrates the strength and depth that they have in this years cohort, with at least 8 athletes being deemed of ‘championship’ status by historical results, as well as the judgment of new coach Anthony Smith. It will be interesting to see if these boats are made up of their top 8 women, or if some are racing in a different boat class.
Edinburgh University Boat Club
After a more lowkey 2021 regatta season, EUBC women’s squad have risen to the challenge and proven themselves to be a dominant force this year. This squad raced to a strong second place at WeHorr behind ULBC, and won in the championship eight at BUCS head in February, as well as taking silver in the championship coxed four. There is clearly some serious strength and ability within this squad, and I would certainly expect them to take one of the podium spots.
Cambridge University
Given that less than a month separates this regatta from the 2022 Boat Race, it is rather unclear to know who the Light Blues will choose to send. However, since this event is a championship category, any crew will contain athletes of a very high calibre. If it’s remnants of the BB, expect this boat to be forcing the pace.
Prediction
Predictions wise, I would expect the medal places to be a fight between ULBC, CUBC and EUBC. With only four entries, we could be in for a tight contest with very narrow margins. The crew that takes the win will need to have serious grit and really leave it all on the course to distinguish themselves from the rest
BUCS Images credit: Drew Smith
Drew Smith Photography
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