Though we have not been able to catch much racing this season due to last-minute cancellations and unfortunate weather conditions, Quintin Head is an opportunity for athletes to show us how they have put the winter break to use. This training block is a particularly interesting one, and difficult too, as many athletes surround themselves with family rather than crewmates, the battle often becomes a mental one of motivation rather than physical, as rowing so often is.
Henley Rowing Club
Being the reigning champions from a 2023 victory, Henley RC will aim to use their position in the start order to take an early lead and build a gap over the others. It’s a true testament to the strength of the programme and their squad depth to have crews going off first and fourth, perhaps unsurprising with the large number of GB athletes throughout the squad. Without their fierce rivals Headington (HSOBC) racing, Henley face little in the name of true competition, so it looks like this Tidway victory will be theirs to lose.
Marlow Rowing Club
With Quintin almost re-marking the start of a season, Marlow, like all clubs, will want to use this race to show their strength within the junior circuit. Two members of their crew competed at Coupe De La Jeunesse this summer, racing in the JW2x and JW4x, so this is a club of calibre, however, it’s interesting to note their international success was in small sculling boats. It remains to be seen if they can transfer this expertise into the infamous 8+, but given past results at National Schools’ from the likes of Marlow, I remain optimistic in this regard.
St Edward’s School Boat Club
While their nickname, Teddies, may seem soft, cuddly and endearing, don’t let that fool you. The entire squad is likely still buzzing after unprecedented success from the boys last year, and the girls’ squad will now want to mark their name in history, a feat they are well capable of. After winning at National School’s last year in the Championship 4+ and qualifying not one, but two crews for the Diamond Jubilee we can see Teddies are adept in boats which have four people in them. How will they do with eight?
Godolphin and Latymer Boat Club
A squad on the rise, Godolphin will take to the Tideway looking to defend their home turf. While not a historic name in junior women’s rowing, we have seen Godolphin go from strength to strength in recent years. Following qualification in the Prince Philip Cup at HRR last year, Godolphin clearly have something to prove, and I hope to see them throw a spanner in the works.
Prediction
With an impressive legacy at this event and a strong squad backing them, I am expecting a Henley win. Marlow and Teddies will likely put up a good showing but I believe this part of the season is where Henley thrive.
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