We return to the famous Henley stretch for the first time in 2022 with Henley Women’s Regatta; and although it’s shorter than the usual, raced over 1500m from Temple to Remenham, it will in no way be less intense. The 18 crews entered have all amassed plenty of experience not only in the ’22 regatta season but throughout their junior rowing careers, and will be looking to put it into practice at HWR and HRR, both of which could be the biggest races of their lives.
Henley Rowing Club
Back on home turf, HRC are yet again looking like the favourites to win. Their lineup of Evie Tinegate, Amelia Sterjo, Abilene Artherton and Keira Delaney is made from a mix of seats from their 2nd Champ 8+ from NSR. And while it’s often easy to discount a 2V, this mistake must not be made at Henley, with their boat beating many championships 8s from other clubs, to place 8th in the A final, a true testament to the calibre of the whole squad. So if these girls can move the 4+ like they do the 8+, they may soon find themselves adding another notch to their belt.
Shiplake College Boat Club
Also having won at NSR, this time in the 4+, this Shiplake crew is another to keep your eyes peeled for. From stroke to bow their crew reads: Eleanor Webb, Gesa Hallmann, Georgia Catlin and Casey-Jane Green; with 2 small changes made – 2 and 3 seat swapped positions in the brief but brutal training period between NSR and HWR, which only shows the verstatility of these rowers. Changes are only made to squeeze out any extra boat-speed, and only time will tell whether this has been successful.
St Paul’s Girls School Boat Club
Coming off the back of a record-breaking year, SPGBC have truly shown the difference a year’s worth of training can make. Having trained together the majority of the season, their 4+ comprises: Margot Faguet, Shrishti Tandon, Ella Male and Sofia Tyler. With 2/4 crew members having achieved various successes at GB Trials, it’s no surprise that their boat 4- 2nd at Wallingford and continued in the same vein to take silver at NSR. With the addition of a cox, doubtless the boat will feel heavier but this does take the pressure off the bowman for steering.
Predictions
It seems that HRC look likely to steal a gold on their home-ground, however due to the immense talent and success of the field it would come as a huge surprise if a spanner were to be thrown into their smooth-oiled machine!
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