With both the J16 and WJ16 categories only having 2 different competitiors, Henley 4s and 8s could be shaping up to be more like a regatta than a heads’ race.
W16 8+
Henley Rowing Club
Having already raced at Henley LDS, the HRC coxes should have a steering advantage that allows them to easily navigate the near-90 degree meander. Along with this, the HRC crews boast many past victories and if they continue in the same vain, they are most likely to add another notch to their belt. From the 16 rowers entered in this category, many if not most of them have had successes at previous events this year and last, having had a very successful introduction into the junior rowing circuit. Various WJ16s took the win at Wallingford Head, Quintin Head, Henley Long Distance Sculls, and Marlow Regatta in various boat classes.
Surbiton High School Boat Club
While there are very few clubs that can give HRC competition, SHSBC can proadly boast this. Entering two boats, most likely made from the same squad that raced at Quintin Head also in two 8s, these SHSBC crew have been keeping HRC on their toes this year. With their first 8+ coming second to HRC at Quintin Head by 4.5 seconds and a mere 0.54 seconds at Hampton Head, SHSBC have the power to achieve what they have been vying for and steal the win from HRC.
J16 8+
Westminster School Boat Club
After spending most of the season competing with the likes of SPS and KCL, the WSBC boys have had plenty of practice in the 8s, and successes too! Beating their opposition by 8 seconds at Teddington Head to take gold and coming second at Quintin Head by only 5.4 seconds, WSBC will be looking for similar results at Henley 4s and 8s.
Predictions
In the women’s category, HRC are the favourites, but SHSBC are no stranger to a tight race between the two and may just rise to the top of the podium.
In the men’s category it is difficult to say as Shiplake College have been rather elusive this season, but with the legacy of their boat club, WSBC are sure to have tough competition.
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