Due to supplementary entries still being open, JRN does not have the official draw for Christmas Regatta 2024; however, here are some crews which, based on past performances and current information, we expect to enter and perform well in this event.
As we approach the weekend, several strong crews, in particular, stand out amongst a competitive field of girls U18 coxed fours. Posting strong results from the previous KRI Club Regatta, Waikato Rowing Club, North Shore Rowing Club, and Hamilton Rowing Club look to be the favourites this weekend, but this early in the season, anything is on the cards.
Waikato Rowing Club
Winning this event at the KRI Club Regatta in ruthless fashion – with a margin of 12 seconds – this standout Waikato crew are undoubtedly the favourites heading into the weekend. The depth of talent in this squad is evident, with the Waikato ‘B’ crew placing third in the same final. With the ‘A’ crew dominating the final in such impressive fashion, the ‘B’ crew will no doubt be looking to follow in their peers’ footsteps and extend the half-a-second margin they gained over fourth place in the final. Though gold may already be a sure thing, could the club turn their attention to a 1-2? The gap may be too large even for them, but I am sure they’ll give it a go.
North Shore Rowing Club
Solidly in second place at the KRI Club Regatta with an 11-second margin back on third place, this impressive crew will be looking to close the gap to the crew from Waikato. While quite a margin down at the previous regatta, this early point in the season may indicate changes in the boat as seat trials begin. With a strong stern pair who placed well in the women’s pair, this crew holds potential as the season progresses to gain speed, with Christmas Regatta now being a crucial step in transitioning to this competitive end of the season.
Hamilton Rowing Club
With two crews in the A-final of this event at the previous regatta, it is clear that the Hamilton Rowing Club have room to gain more speed throughout this season. A promising fourth and fifth placings show the squad’s potential, with the Hamilton ‘A’ crew a mere one second off third place. As we approach this Christmas Regatta, we may see changes within the crews as coaches reevaluate coming into the December break. An impressive third-place finish in the girl’s U18 eight at the KRI Club Regatta indicates the potential speed of the fours to replicate their solid performance in the eight.
Predictions
At this point, it’s difficult not to choose the hugely impressive Waikato crew for first place. With a margin like the previous regatta, they will be very difficult to beat. In second, it will likely be the North Shore crew, again with a large margin over the Waikato ‘B’ crew. In third, we will likely see either the Waikato ‘B’ crew, or the Hamilton ‘A’ crew.
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