As potentially the biggest domestic race this side of Christmas, Fours Head holds a special place in the calendar, for clubs, schools and indeed universities. It’s always interesting to see who shows up, with such a packed schedule it is common for some clubs to miss out on entries and for some to forsake the event in favour of local events. While the results mean little in the big picture – there is still so much time before the likes of BUCS Head, Regatta, and Henley – it is interesting to see new crews forming and in some events, initial match ups which will heat up throughout the season.
Oxford Brookes
We begin as we must with an obvious contender in this category, none other than the mighty Oxford Brookes. However, the student men’s squad came away without silverware at Henley Royal in 2021, which came as a shock to everyone, not least the coaches and athletes themselves (so I hear). As they look to rebuild towards summer 2022, this will be the first outing for many new athletes and new combinations. The crew entered in this event features some strong athletes who competed as part of the Temple and Ladies B crews in the summer, indicating it is full of quality. I expect this crew to win the category.
Imperial College London
With two entries into the event, it looks as though IC are sending a full squad to Fours Head, and why not, after all it is on their home water. This ‘home advantage’ might count for something, as the conditions on the notorious Tideway can scupper some crews’ chances of success. While I think it’s unlikely that IC will be able to beat Brookes, the top crew of the two will be right up there.
Oxford Lightweights
The lighties from Oxford tend to perform handily in fours, as shown in recent results at BUCS Regatta and at Henley Royal. However, the silverware tends to come from lightweight events such as at BUCS, and with no such option at Fours Head the difference in horsepower will probably show. But they are always handy oarsmen and as we all know, never underestimate lightweights.
Prediction
As mentioned above, I can’t see anyone getting one over on Brookes, even if it’s not their top ranked crew at this event. IC might give it a go but will be hard pressed to beat the Goliath that is Brookes. Shoutout to Southampton who have entered two crews into this category, great to see so much interest and entries across the board.
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