With the new six day format for Henley Royal Regatta this year, the Semi Final for the Prince Albert Challenge Cup is now on a Friday. After these very tough Semi finals I’m sure the finalists will be happy that they can rest over Saturday before fighting it out this Sunday.
Newcastle University Vs University California, Berkeley
It was Newcastle who got the better start but by the barrier Cal Berkeley had pulled themselves level. All down the course California fought to shake off Newcastle who continued to attack them. Approaching the enclosures Newcastle emptied themselves trying to finally get back on terms but California Berkeley found another gear to stay ahead. Coming across the line a length ahead it was a battle all the way down for California Berkeley and they will be very pleased to have a day’s rest before the final on Sunday.
Oxford Brookes vs D.S.R. Proteus-Eretes, Netherlands
This race was a pure display of dominance by Oxford Brookes. For the past few years this event as been the thorn in Oxford Brookes back and this year they are determined to win this event at last. Straight off the start Brookes pulled ahead taking a length lead early on. The Result was never in doubt all down the course and such a dominant performance here in the semi final suggests that Brookes should be considered clear favourites come Sunday.
Predictions
The Final this Sunday will be a cracker between Oxford Brookes and California Berkeley. While I would consider based on their race today Brookes to be clear favourites to win the red boxes, the last time they met an American crew in the final of the Prince Albert they were beaten at the line.
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