The biggest head race in the north returns, as always tentatively due to the often wild conditions on the course. Rutherford Head is a fantastic coming together of some of the country’s biggest universities and clubs, and provides the students a valuable opportunity to run down the Tyne before BUCS Head in February.
This event has six entries, two from the locals Newcastle University, three from their local rivals Durham University, and one from the Scottish powerhouse Edinburgh University. These three clubs competed on this stretch last weekend in a private fixture, where reports say it was Edinburgh who took the victory on the women’s side, showing impressive strength and depth.
Edinburgh University BC
Coming off the back of two weekends of racing, first at Inverness Fours & Small Boats Head and next on the Tyne in the aforementioned fixture, Edinburgh will be using Rutherford to conclude this mini racing season before settling back into a training block leading into BUCS Head.
Probably the most ‘in form’ of those entered, the Edinburgh women are primed for success this weekend and I’d go as far as to say this is theirs to lose. The only factor that could come into play is whether Durham or Newcastle can field a stronger foursome as this event will allow top end strength to pay dividends.
Durham University BC
With new coaches Rob Dauncey and Will Fletcher hitting their stride this season, Durham are looking revitalised and on the hunt for success once again. With their first eight finishing just four seconds behind Edinburgh in the recent fixture, the girls in palatinate know it’s a gap that can be bridged.
Newcastle University BC
Newcastle find themselves in an unfamiliar position this season, going into Rutherford as the underdogs and the second best northern club. This is a club that lacks not for passion and racing-edge, I expect Newcastle to come out fighting this weekend and with a point to prove.
Prediction
Put simply if the conditions are decent I expect Edinburgh to win here. If it’s rough then it’ll be much more open with the added experience Newcastle and Durham have of this course giving them an advantage.
Good luck to all!
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