Marlow regatta is the last event before Henley Royal Regatta, as J16s they will not be entering the Princess Elizabeth challenge cup due to the school’s 1st VIII taking priority, they will most likely be entered into the Temple Challenge Cup and try get a place in the draw through qualifying races. It is a rather small field for Saturdays race with only 6 crews entered from 4 clubs, but nonetheless it should be some close and exciting racing.
St Pauls’ School Boat Club
Very much a top crew, St Pauls’ managed a 4th place in the J16 8+ just a handful of seconds off the medals. Unlike other clubs this eight has stayed the same since NSR which means they’ll certainly be in with a shot for the win, but in order to do this they will have to overturn Radley. St Pauls’ also have a B boat entered, this is their J15 eight who won NSR by over 10s proving that they are not to be dismissed as a potential winner.
Radley College
Recently crowned National Schools’ Champions, Radley are without a doubt the ones to beat with a large target on their backs. However the crew entered for Marlow has changed since the national school’s regatta and therefore could open to door to the likes of St Pauls to snatch the win. It is likely that this boat will try and qualify for Henley Royal Regatta but being J16s it will be challenging for them to overturn some considerably older and more experienced university eights.
Maidenhead Rowing Club
The unknown quantity of Maidenhead, unfortunately withdrawing from National Schools’ so it’s hard to predict their speed. Despite the lack of recent results don’t let it distract you, they may well be quick and having your competitors know little about you can often be a large advantage. I don’t think that they will be able to match Radley for speed but I do expect them to have a close tussle with KCS ‘B’ which I am sure both crews would enjoy.
Kings College School
Having 2 eights entered Kings College have also entered their B boat, could they be aiming for a double podium? It’s certainly possible. Placing a respectable 8th place a few weeks ago I would certainly expect them to be battling with Maidenhead but I think Radley are just too fast for them.
Predictions
I would certainly expect Radley to take the win on this one. However second place looks to be tight between St Pauls and the KCS crews with Maidenhead not too far behind. I reiterate the St Pauls’ J15s could well be in the mix and may cause an upset.
Good luck to all 6 crews.
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