This is your JRN Monthly briefing covering the developments of the last month in the world of rowing. If you have a story to share, contact our news desk at juniorrowingnews@gmail.com
The biggest news already in November, despite only being one day in, is the announcement hot off the press today that Alastair Marks has been appointed as interim CEO of British Rowing. This comes after the news that Brendan Purcell was stepping down as the Director of Performance for British Rowing and the announcement last month that Andy Parkinson stepped down as Chief Executive of British Rowing. Alastair Marks will be in the position on a fixed term basis until the end of March 2022. Marks brings extensive experience from across the sports industry, he recently held a similar position at British Gymnastics and has had previous senior roles at Neilsen Sports, Rugby Football Union and the Lawn Tennis Association- to name a few. British Rowing Chair, Mark Davies has welcomed the appointment, stating; ‘We’re really happy to be able to bring in someone of Alastair’s pedigree to lead British Rowing. Throughout his career, as well as a track record as a strong leader, Alastair has delivered some really exciting projects which are directly relevant to what we are setting out to achieve our strategy.’
In his own words, Marks was clear in the opportunity that exists for rowing; ‘I am delighted to be joining British Rowing at his pivotal time in the sport and excited to be leading the delivery of the inspiring and forward vision that the rowing community, staff and Board has created together. Building on the great successes and traditions of the sport, the potential to grow all aspects of rowing is vast and I look forward to bringing my experiences to the organisation to help bring its bold vision for the future to life.’
Marks will take up the role today, Monday 1st of November and the executive search process for a permanent CEO will be launched in the New Year.
Looking back into October, it was a busy time in the rowing world. It started with the World Coastal Rowing Championships which saw the GB men’s quad bring home bronze. Tokyo silver medallist Jack Beaumont was in the crew, continuing his wave of success.
British Rowing launched a commitment to the inclusion plan, following the survey that took place earlier this year British rowing has made a promise to support and empower rowers and make the rowing world more inclusive and diverse. It will be interesting to see what changes are made in the future.
The Wingfield sculls took place earlier this month with Graeme Thomas (Agecroft) and Lola Anderson (Leander) being crowned the winners. The closure of the Thames barrier meant that the conditions were more rowable than expected although the women’s race had incredibly rough water at the start. Both scullers managed to pull through to come out victorious.
Across the pond, a key event this month was the return of the Head of the Charles Regatta which saw around 11 thousand athletes and thousands of spectators. The university crews proved themselves in the women’s championship eights with the Stanford boat winning beating the Canadian Olympic eight and Princeton, Brown and Yale. In the men’s championship eights The University of Washington eight beat Dartmouth and Yale meaning Washington won its first Head of the Charles since 2016.
Overall October was a great month for rowing and there is more to look forward to in November with Fours Head and Trials coming up. Even though the weather will be getting worse the events are building up and it looks as though we are in for a great head season.
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