Schools’ Head of the River 2020 – Girls Ch 4x

A note from the Commissioning Editor

Yet again, as it has been with so many times with articles and races this season, I am obliged to write a disclaimer above the article. The cancellation of School’s Head, like with all events that have not take place, will be a disappointment to everyone. This one is more significant, with weather finally being on our side, the community thought we would finally get some good racing and start to put together a season, Coronavirus had other ideas. Anyway, here is the Girls Ch 4x preview as it would have been if School’s Head happened.

Junior Women’s racing has taken a big hit this year. Bad weather conditions prevented trials and racing in November until January, followed by the cancellation of races, the closure of schools and clubs in March due to a global pandemic. It seems the rowing community will soon be going on lockdown. With such uncertainty currently gripping the nation, the Schools’ head may be the last time some athletes will be able to get out on a race course this season, and for those sitting their A levels this year, it may be their last race as a junior athlete.

Tideway Scullers’ School

Tideway Scullers have a history of success in the junior women’s quad category. Their championship quad won Henley Women’s regatta last year and reached the semi-final of Henley Royal Regatta where they were knocked out by Headington School. No doubt there will be a few returners from this quad racing the Schools’ Head course this Wednesday. In February, Tideway Scullers placed 5th at Quintin Eights Head in the Junior Women’s category, a result which was a little lower than anticipated after their double win at the November Fours Head of the River. I would expect to see Scullers regain their flare this wednesday after their defeat last month and have no doubt they will be using the strength of their athletes and their home water advantage to the maximum.  

Latymer Upper School

Latymer Upper School have a phenomenal track record in this event. In 2018, Latymer placed first in the Junior women’s quad and in 2017 they placed second. At the recent Quintin Head, Latymer’s top eight placed fourth in the junior women’s eight category. I would assume this quad is the second ranked boat but nonetheless will give a strong performance due to the depth Latymer has demonstrated this year in their squad. 

Gloucester Hartbury

Gloucester Hartbury are another strong contender for the top spot in the Girls’ Championship Quad category. However, there was definitely a lack of dominance by these girls after they placed fourth at National Schools’ and indeed so far this season. Gloucester Hartbury finished second in this event in 2018 and had a phenomenal final at Henley Royal Regatta. I look forward to seeing what this crew can do out on the track. 

I predict the following crews will come out on top: 

• Tideway Scullers School 
• Latymer Upper School 
• Gloucester Hartbury College 

BowsideChopper

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Amarna Milne

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