This weekend nine junior women’s eights will be racing down the Thames in this season’s second head run by Hampton School. The 3000m course will be an opportunity to test new lineups and weigh up competition for the fast approaching Women’s and Schools’ Head of the River races. Quintin Head exposed some large margins between the junior eights at the moment, a few of which may well be settled this weekend over a shorter course.
Henley RC
Henley have had a good start to their 2020 season, placing third at last week’s Quintin Head. Due to the club’s recent history in junior women’s eights I have no doubt this year will be focused on reclaiming their 2018 National Schools’ title. This weekend Henley will be out in full force in an effort to assert dominance over potential rivals, something they have not yet done this year. I would expect to see this crew battling with Marlow for the top spot.
Marlow RC
Marlow showed their strength last week at Quintin Head where they placed second in the Junior Women’s eight, ahead of Henley, Tideway Scullers and Lady Eleanor Holles. This weekend they will race a shorter course than that of the Tideway, narrowing down time gaps between other clubs and schools even more. With their main rivals, Headington School, not entered, Marlow will be looking to take the top spot, with Henley hot on their heels.
Surbiton High School BC
Surbiton had a decent performance last week at Quintin Head, placing 9th overall and beating the likes of Emanuel School and Godolphin and Latymer. However, after being beaten by two second eights put forward by Headington and Lady Eleanor Holles, these girls will need to up their game this weekend if they want to reach the top 3. With so many GB trialists this year it is clear the club has depth and strength in sculling boats but will this skill be transferrable to sweep?
Prediction
Although, as always, the ranking of Junior Women’s eights is ever changing and often unexpected, my predictions are as follows;
- Marlow Rowing Club
- Henley Rowing Club
- Surbiton High School Boat Club
BowsideChopper
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