After a long, long wait we finally return to the hallowed waters of Dorney Lake for the 2023 instalment of the National Schools Regatta. The peak of many crews’ seasons, NSR makes for some exciting racing, with crews from across the country battling to win the coveted Rival Kit/All Mark One medallists’ top. The Sommerville Cup, awarded to the quickest Women’s Second 8, demonstrates a club’s depth across the squad and prove the high calibre of the programme. But who will take home this coveted trophy, bringing honour to their club once and for all.
Henley RC
The ever-formidable Henley crew are looking to establish their dominance across the board this year and the Women’s Second Eight is no exception. Choosing to focus on small boats instead of eights, it will be exciting to see how the crew stack up against the competition. This Henley squad performed extraordinarily well in their J16 season, sweeping the competition throughout the year, and it has been interesting to see them step on to race at senior level. Notably, Dickson has made the leap from the National Schools-winning J16 crew, into the senior second 8. Only time will tell if she’ll be able to stroke this boat to victory.
Surbiton
With two boats entered in the category, Surbiton must be applauded for the clear depth of the team. It is difficult to discuss Surbiton without mentioning the fact that the first boat has been slightly off pace this season, but these disappointments have clearly not been felt down the squad. The Second Eight clinched an exciting fourth-place at the Schools’ Head of the River, behind Henley, Marlow, and Headington. Without Marlow in the mix, and a potentially diluted Henley crew, I am excited to see what Surbiton can do this weekend and if they can potentially pull off a silver medal.
Headington
What would School Girls’ rowing be without the iconic Henley–Headington rivalry. While Wycliffe may have upended the status quo in March, it would be remiss of us to dismiss Headington so quickly. I’m certain that the Headington crew would have been spending these last few weeks being conditioned and prepared by their coach Ryan Demaine (GB Women’s coach) to ensure that they are ready come this weekend.
Prediction
This year, I’m predicting a Headington win. Following their immense successes in the winter season, I believe they’re looking to set a precedent for dominance in the regatta season. They have a notoriously strong programme which regularly produces depth and pedigree throughout.
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