Due to supplementary entries still being open for this event, JRN does not have the official draw for Christmas Regatta 2024; however, here are some clubs which, based on past performances and current information, we expect to enter and perform well in this event.
St Paul’s Collegiate Rowing Club
Hailing from Hamilton, the quad from St Paul’s is anchored by Olivia Waddell, an exceptional talent and the niece of rowing legend Rob Waddell. She has already demonstrated dominance on the water, competing as a U17 rower in the U18 single at this regatta previously, where she secured an impressive second place. Even then, she only succumbed to her stroke seat Zara Brangwynne, showing just what talent this squad possesses. Waddell’s skill and power set the tone for the crew, which benefits from her leadership and competitive drive. Coached by Rachel Pollock, a highly experienced triathlete and rowing coach, the team undergoes rigorous training, focused on building endurance and aerobic capacity, all of which to ensure they are among the fittest athletes on the water.
Known for their consistent rhythm and technical precision, the crew possesses a ‘big engine’ capability, enabling them to maintain a strong pace throughout the race. Brangwynne’s influence contributes to their high stroke rate and ability to execute a lethal sprint finish few of their competitors can match. This combination of endurance and tactical sharpness gives them a competitive edge. The team’s rivalry with King’s College adds an exciting dynamic, as both crews are consistently vying for top positions in sculling events.
Of course, fielding a top-quality crew is nothing new for the school, as St. Paul’s has a proud tradition of excelling in quad sculling, with past achievements providing motivation and a sense of legacy for the current lineup. At last year’s Maadi Regatta, this crew raced in the U16 event, finishing third, showcasing their potential. Now stepping up to the U18 category, they have shown dominance early in the season, winning races convincingly, including a recent six-second margin over the second-place team at the KRi Club Regatta. With this momentum, the St. Paul’s crew is expected to be strong contenders at the Christmas Regatta, and will certainly be eager to continue their tradition of success.
King’s College School
The King’s College U18 crew showcases a strong lineup underpinned by natural chemistry, as many of the athletes are family friends, creating a close-knit and cohesive unit. Their standout performances stem from a tradition of excellence, with athletes benefiting from connections to elite rowing environments, such as a sibling currently competing for Leander Club in the UK. Guided by coach Natalie Welch, who has an impressive coaching resume that includes mentoring Oliver Welch, the recent world champion in the U23 pairs, this crew demonstrates both technical skill and competitive drive.
The team is known for its high-energy rowing style, featuring an early sprint strategy that sets them apart from many rivals. Rather than waiting until the final 250 meters, they initiate their sprint around the 500-meter mark, capitalizing on their speed and endurance to gain an advantage. This aggressive approach has proven effective in tighter races, though challenging conditions at recent regattas have tested their capabilities. In their last encounter with St. Paul’s Hamilton, they finished six seconds behind, but flatter water could close the gap significantly, making the rivalry one to watch.
King’s boasts a proud history of sculling success, reinvigorated in recent years by coaching changes that have revitalized the program. Under the stewardship of notable figures like Nick Lloyd and now Natalie Welch, the team has been steadily climbing back to prominence. With a legacy of producing high-performing crews and a hunger to reclaim their place at the top, this crew is poised to challenge for honours at the Christmas Regatta. Their combination of tradition, innovation, and determination makes them formidable competitors.
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