Given the cancellation of Fours Head last week, the pressure is on Henley Sculls for crews to strike out this head season. This fairly small pool of twelve crews includes a wide range of clubs, so we should get an interesting look at the field of WJ18 competitors this year.
Always an imposing presence, Henley RC have put forward three crews in this category, suggesting their depth of squad. Recently, their double came second to Sir William Perkin’s (who have not entered this weekend) at the Reading Small Boats Head. With GB Trials looming, it’s likely that some of Henley’s athletes have been training especially hard, giving them a good chance of success.
From Maidenhead RC, their double including Loseldaly came third behind Wallingford RC and Sir William Perkins at Reading Small Boats Head. Loseldaly is also competing this weekend, and may well stand out as a strong sculler. Also at Reading, Guildford RC came just behind Loseldaly in the single, so they might be keen to make up the time.
City of Bristol RC had success at Bluefriars Small Boats head, where one of their boats, stroked by Ehmen, won the WJ17 doubles. This suggests the strength of their sculling programme, making them a crew to watch. Similarly, Bewl Bridge RC’s crew at the Maidstone Small Boats Head won the WJ18 doubles category, suggesting they may also be a contender.
Also competing are Royal Grammar School Worcester, Stratford-upon-Avon RC, Oratory Sch. BC, and Ryde RC.
Prediction
I reckon it will be between Henley and Maidenhead for first place, with the former being more likely to take a top spot given their depth of squad. Given the variety of clubs competing in this category, I wouldn’t overlook any for an unexpected success, especially with GB Trials on the horizon.
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