Four’s Head marks the first race of the year in which the OUBC and CUBC crews race each other. But, more importantly for us, it will provide a chance to see the progress of the school programs from around the UK in a boat class much closer to the VIIIs they will race in the summer, something we did not get to see as clearly at Pairs Head. Indeed, you may find some of these combinations gracing the Sunday of NSR in the Champ 4+ and 4- Events. Either way, this as a great speed indicator and one of the last races before the Christmas Hiatus.
St Paul’s
St Paul’s have elected to enter their top four into the 4+ category this year. However, they have still chosen to enter a second and third four here – SPS B & C. The Hammersmith based school traditionally have good depth and four rowers from these two crews will make up half the St Paul’s first VIII at some point, so expect them to be fast. However, they may struggle against any top fours in the category.
KCS Wimbledon
This looks like the top four from KCS racing as they also have another four, labelled KCS B, in the 4+ event. If so, this four will likely contain Calum Betteley and George Thompson, who both raced at Coupe De La Jeunesse last year, Betteley also finished an impressive 16th at Early ID’s this weekend. This looks like it may be one of only two top fours in this category if the crew names are anything to go by and, given their ranking last year above the only other top four in the category – from Abingdon, these guys appear to be favourites to win.
Abingdon School
The two Abingdon entries are somewhat of an unknown quantity. If the crew designations are anything to go by, then Abingdon has chosen to enter their first and fourth fours in this event. The names attached to both crews are from their J16 VIII last year, who finished third in J16 CH8+, so, whilst they are new to their senior program, they have experienced prior success. If it is their first four entered, then they could be serious contenders for the win come Saturday.
Prediction
If KCS and Abingdon have both entered top fours, then it will essentially be a battle between these two for first. The speed of the Abingdon boys is still relatively unknown and they could throw up some surprises for last year CH8+ finalists. However, I think King’s home water advantage and proven experience should see them overcome Abingdon
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