With a total of 26 entries in the J17 category, this offers up high-quality, competitive racing. The fact that the head is comprised of two 2k pieces highlights the need for crews to have good stamina, as well as strength and power. As it is the last major head race of the season, all crews will want to build up momentum for the upcoming regatta season.
Windsor Boys’ School:
Windsor Boys‘ have become the unstoppable force in junior men’s sculling over the past few years. They have won race after race, and this year looks no different. Despite not competing at Fours’ Head this year, meaning that they’ve gone a little under the radar, Windsor will certainly be aiming to win. However, the likes of Chute and Truter add serious firepower. In recent years Dorney has become a stomping ground for the school, and it seems that other crews will have a hard time beating Windsor.
Tideway Scullers:
Seeded first at the Scullery, Tideway hope to keep the position theirs when the race ends. The quad has gone from strength to strength this season. A dominant win at Pairs’ Head early in the season was followed up by a strong result at Fours’ Head. More recently the crew won convincingly at Hampton Head back in February. All four are full of experience and will aim to emulate the successes of previous Tideway quads before them.
Lea Rowing Club:
Lea has established itself as a consistent performer on the national junior sculling scene in recent years. This season the crew has performed consistently, even winning the Hampton Small Boats Head back in December. However, not performing at Schools’ Head will mean they miss the opportunity to go head-to-head with the serious competition that they will encounter. They will also have changed around the lineup, with Delport coming back into the stroke seat.
Predictions:
It is hard to see beyond Windsor Boys’ winning, but Tideway Scullers will be close behind. Lea will finish in the 3rd spot but could be pipped by Walton and Henley, two strong crews who have the capability of causing an upset.
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