Update: Since this preview has been written, Hampton Small Boats Head has been cancelled.
The 3000m battle downstream always makes for some tight, fast racing on any day, never mind following a storm that has led to the cancellation of many events across the country. Given the lack of racing opportunities recently, these women’s Junior 16 doubles will all be hoping for a good contest despite the stiff competition.
Sir William Perkins
One of the top rowing schools in the country for girls’ rowing, Sir William Perkins School, has entered a vast number of crews to Hampton SBH. With numerous top positions at races across the country, both regionally and nationally, in all boat classes, these athletes are sure to do well over the three-kilometre stretch of river. One such achievement is the A and B quads at the National Schools’ Regatta, achieving a B-final and a silver medal, respectively. With both crews attaining such high standards, it goes to show the depth in the squad, suggesting at least one of these doubles will surely take the win this weekend.
Wimbledon High School
With two Wimbledon High School crews having won Hampton Head last year as the WJ15 doubles, will they reclaim their title this year? It seems likely, as they are clearly still a talented cohort when it comes to sweeping. They won a bronze medal at the National Schools’ Regatta in the women’s Junior 15 eight, and the coxed four won the junior inter-regional regatta. If they can bring this strength and expertise to the doubles, they will likely be placing top five and at least one crew in the top three.
Surbiton High school
A high-level junior programme, Surbiton is known for its hoards of results in all categories but mainly sweep. With five athletes earning GB vests last summer and bringing gold medals home, these girls have some big boots to fill. They needn’t worry though as they are on the right track, having already placed a close second at the National Schools’ Regatta in the eight (beating the aforementioned Wimbledon by two seconds) and demonstrating excellent potential. Assuming they are equally as strong in the smaller boats and over a longer course, the crews are sure to power down the river and gain yet more silverware for their collection.
Prediction
Sir William Perkins are certainly a club to beat at the moment across all age groups, but I believe that Surbiton and Wimbledon will be the crews tussling for the gold medal. With Sir William Perkins potentially not even reaching third place – given the vast amount of Surbiton crews entered – I’m expecting they will follow up in the remainder of the top five positions.
About The Author
Discover more from JRN
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
