Racing on one of the best stretches of river in the north, Rutherford Head attracts many clubs from the region as well as from Scotland and the south of England. For many, this is the first big race that can be used as an indicator of speed compared to rivals. Given the race date of the 30th November, it tends to be very chilly (the 2023 race was completed in sub-zero temperatures), with a chance of choppy conditions. This makes it ideal prep for big races in the new year on the tideway, as well as BUCS head on this stretch of river. The open band 2 8s looks like a very competitive affair, with the top Durham college crews taking on some big club 2nd and 3rd 8s.
Collingwood College
Virtually unbeaten in college rowing in the last four years, Collingwood College have enjoyed a remarkable rise to be the dominant college boat club in Durham since covid times. At some races last year, their 1st and 2nd 8 were faster than all other Durham college boats. Having lost only a few members of their all conquering 8 last year, this crew will be well drilled with good knowledge of the river. With this the first 8s race of the season, their speed compared to their competitors is unknown, but I am sure they will lead off band 2 with a big determination to win.
Newcastle University
Boasting an impressive five mens 8s at Rutherford head, Newcastle University are consistently at the top end of university rowing. Their 3rd and 4th 8 are competing in band 2, but do not be put under any illusion that these 8s are not quick. Last year the 3rd 8 regularly beat other universities 2nd 8s and with Newcastle retaining 75% of their squad from last year, be sure that the 3rd 8 will be fighting it out to win this band. They will have an advantage over all their opposition apart from Tyne RC, as they train on this course day in day out. Given the opposition, you would expect Newcastle’s 3rd 8 will be gunning for the win, with their 4th 8 not far behind.
Tyne Rowing Club
In recent years this club has been going from strength to strength. Tyne RC had two mens boats racing at Henley Royal last year, with their Wyfold 4 making the semi-finals. With 4 mens 8s entered at Rutherford, they will look to push some of the big name universities, whilst also solidifying their reputation as the best non-university club in the north of England. In band 2 their 2nd and 3rd 8s will be pushing hard for category win, whilst also trying to take as many university scalps as possible.
Other Crews
Lancaster University will bring a strong 8 across from the west. With limited racing their speed is a bit of an unknown, but in the past they have been known to challenge some of the big northern clubs. Trevelyan College have had a remarkable rise over the last 2 years to be the next quickest college in Durham after Collingwood. With a crew mainly of ex-schoolboy rowers they will look to compete well in band 2. Leeds RC will be coming to Rutherford head to see how they stack up compared to other top clubs such as Tyne and Agecroft RC.
Prediction
I think Newcastle University’s strength in depth will lead to their 3rd 8 winning band 2. Helped by their good knowledge of the racing line on the river, the Tyne RC 2nd 8 will beat Collingwood College to 2nd place, with Collingwood taking 3rd. However given the ever changing conditions on the river, one bad turn and your race could be over.
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