Run only across a course of 3k, Hampton Head may seem shorter than your average head race, and being on the non-tidal part of the Thames gives the rowers a pleasant experience of more gentle conditions than some of its tideway counterparts. However it’s not all fun and games, the Hampton stretch of the river is significantly narrower than further upstream, which could prove a steering challenge for them to brave bow steerers of these pairs.
Surbiton High School Boat Club
Already hair taken a story start to the season are Surbiton High School BC, with a win at Kingston Small Boats Head earlier this month in the doubles category. Having shown their proficiency in the smaller boats, all that needs to be done is to transfer their talent to sweeping. However, after placing fourth at Wallingford Regatta 2022, this seems to be no difficult task.
Lady Eleanor Holles Boat Club
Lady Eleanor Holles have entered multiple crews into this category, who are also in a good position to challenge Surbiton. LEH have had their share of sweep practice also at Wallingford, where they came 6th in the Challenge 8+ against big club and school names alike, which I’m sure is bound to hold them in good stead after a summer of training.
Other Entries
Also battling it out this weekend down the course is Emanuel School BC, The Kings School Canterbury and Walton RC. With the key role steering has to play in the success of a pair, it would be no surprise to see an underdog rising through the ranks to secure the win this weekend giving it all to play for.
Predictions
It looks like the Surbiton boat that starts first is set to finish first, however, the fleet of LEH crews entered may treat us to a surprise!
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