The first race of the season always brings with it a shock to the system. With all the scullers used to the shorter distances from summer races, the 5km course in Chester will be a potentially unwelcomed shock to the system. Seven scullers will race the band 1 category of J18 singles.
Northwich RC – Kendall Smith
After some strong racing in the summer which saw the Northwich Sculler place 2nd in the B Final of J18 2x at the British Championships Kendall Smith looks to be the favourite going into the event. He’ll be looking to build upon his other results which include 2nd in the C Final of Champ Quads at NSR and 4th in the Quad at the British Championships in July.
King’s School Chester – Irvine & Jack
King’s Chester had a difficult regatta season last year. They could only manage 2nd place in the C Final of Champ 8s at NSR and had a tough first-round exit of the P.E against St. Joseph’s, Australia. As is often the case with many clubs and schools King’s will be starting the season in small boats before transferring into bigger boats as we get deeper into the head season. On home water these scullers should be confident of putting a good performance together.
Warrington RC – Lee & Walker
The Warrington Juniors had another strong season last year which ultimately saw them fall to Leander on the Friday of the Fawley Challenge Cup before coming away with gold in the Junior Quads at Brit Champs. That being said neither of these scullers were in that lineup, so they will be looking to get experience early on in the season in order to replicate the success from last year.
There are also entries from Agecroft and Hollingworth Lake. It is unlikely that these juniors will be at the top of the pack but they will be looking to be competitive nonetheless.
My Predictions…
Northwich to take the win followed by Irvine of King’s Chester.
6 man
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