What makes the J4- such an interesting event at this time of year is the way it provides a glimpse into what to expect later in the season, when we’re back to racing the much-loved 8+. Take last year’s Fours Head – the top 5 places were dominated by both St Paul’s and St Edward’s “A” and “B” boats, who went on to compete in a thrilling Princess Elizabeth final at Henley Royal, 8 months later.
This year’s event might act as a crystal orb, providing insight into the results of races far into the future. This category is stacked with the familiar names in schoolboy rowing, of the great British public schools that so often dominate. Off the water, these boys may well be friendly with each other, but on Sunday we will undoubtedly see the manifestation of an age-old rivalry.
St Paul’s School Boat Club
Fresh off the back of a spectacular performance at the Head of the Charles Regatta in Boston, where their 1st VIII climbed from 74th place, at the back of the pack, to win the Men’s Youth Eights by an impressive 20 seconds, St Paul’s will be riding their high. SPS have entered into the 4x- category too, with that particular crew appearing to be their first boat. Nonetheless, a testament to their squad depth and training programme, they may well be fielding for a win in both categories. The advantage of being on home water may help them clinch the headship for the second consecutive year.
Radley College Boat Club
A school that consistently demonstrates strength in numbers, Radley, is fielding the most boats with four crews out of the 27 entered. Additionally, they have three more crews competing in the 4-. Having narrowly missed out in the semi-final of the PE last season to eventual winners, Oxford rivals St Edward’s, Radley will be seeking a positive start to this season. They’ve secured a close second place in this event for the past two years, and with such abundant talent on display, they will surely be vying for the win with at least one of their boats.
Eton College Boat Club
Eton is one of those rowing powerhouse schools that should never be overlooked in any race they participate in. Therefore, all three of their crews are worth keeping an eye on. This will be their first real adventure of a race since a disappointing result at Henley last season, and I’m sure they will be keen to get back in business this weekend. All their returning 1st Vlll members are racing in the coxless four, so this will be an opportunity for some of their fresh talent to make a strong impression.
Kings College School Boat Club
Despite KCS Wimbledon having won this event as recently as 2021, they may not be seen by many as one of the top contenders. However, I believe that they have the potential to be the dark horse of the event, especially given the absence of some of the schools usually expected to put in a challenge for the top spot like St. Edward’s or Westminster.
Predictions
Considering their consistent success over the past few seasons and what they’ve already achieved this season, we are once again in the position when it is hard to see anything other than a St Paul’s win. The most probable challenge will come from Radley, unwilling to repeat the results of the 2022 PE final. As for the remaining spot on the podium, it is likely to be claimed by either Eton or one of the crews rowing on home waters, such as Kings College or even Latymer Upper.
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