This year’s J17 coxless quad category at the Oarsport Junior Sculling Head is comprised of 17 entries, many of whom will have raced the day before at the Schools’ Head of the River, and will be feeling fatigue in the legs. On the other hand, those who are coming in fresh will be ecstatic to tackle the 3600m course.
Marlow start as obvious favourites, with a second place last year in J16x-, and with the absence of a Tideway Scullers crew, they will undoubtedly be looking to take the title, in perhaps the only race where they can race as a J17 quad, on a big stage. Henley Rowing Club must also fancy their chances this year, looking to build on last year’s fifth place, they must be feeling confident after coming fifth at Hampton Head in the J18 category. They will definitely be looking to win again, where they won their National Schools title last year.
With their recent successes in J18 quads, both Claires Court School and Maidenhead will both want to see their boats in the top five, and the two Claires Court entries suggests they have strength in depth. With a relatively poor showing at Hampton head, Leander Club will be desperate to show that they can find some form.
After coming Fourth last year in their age category, Walton RC, will be wanting to retain this place, but after being 20 seconds off the pace of Henley at Hampton Head, the odds are against them. Peterborough City Rowing Club are one club who could even be considered underdogs for this event, but will undoubtedly have their J16 2x who came third at pairs head here, they will be able to put this tideway experience to good use here, and will look to improve from last year’s 14th.
I think that Henley will win this one, but will face stiff competition from all of the above, but especially Marlow and Walton.
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