In the run up to an event as big and as prestigious as BUCS Regatta, the competitors will no doubt be looking back at past results and asking the question, will the dominance continue? Ahead of the open championship quads at BUCS Regatta it’s hard to think of little else as there are some universities in this category that have an undeniable legacy. Whilst the regatta offers the opportunity for a changing of the guard, recent history suggests that this will be difficult for anyone that wishes to take up the mantle.
Reading University Boat Club
Rightfully the favourites, Reading were the victors at BUCS Head by over 30 seconds. The caveat to this victory was that Bath University, their most probable competition at the regatta, didn’t compete. Despite this, it’s difficult to see past Reading as the crews face off for the first time this season. Having the recent GB April trials winner Matt Long at their disposal, Reading continue to go from strength to strength as they prepare for an eventual Prince of Wales campaign at Henley Royal Regatta come the summer.
Bath University Boat Club
The home of the performance development academy, formerly GB Start, Bath University continues to reap the rewards of what has been a hugely successful partnership. Having not raced at the BUCS Head, it’s possible to reason that this was a result of their showing at Bristol Head. Losing by over 35 seconds to Reading, this could be an indication of how the two crews stand relative to one another. It’s only fair to note, however, that this was in December and a lot can change in this time. BUCS Regatta offers the opportunity for redemption, something that I’m sure will motivate this Bath crew.
Queen’s University Belfast Boat Club
Having taken the silver medal at the BUCS Head, Queen’s should be in the conversation for a medal once more. Ever the dark horses at the last event, mostly due to the fact that they only make the trip to England for BUCS competitions, nobody expected them to be in the running for a medal. Queen’s wouldn’t enter crews that they didn’t think could compete and this always stands in their favour. Having raced well on the Tyne, the expectation has changed and they should be able to hold their own once more against a slightly larger field of competition.
Predictions
Everything points in favour of a Reading victory. For this not to be the case there will have to have been a number of considerable improvements by others, or something unfortunate on Reading’s part. Whilst Bath and Queen’s seem to be a little behind Reading, they have both had medal success in this category in the last couple of years so they clearly have what it takes to be clear contenders for the other podium positions.
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