The annual Remenham Challenge is a head of the river race organised by the club for crews from all seven founding clubs. The first Remenham Challenge took place in 2000 in Kingston. The race now takes place (extreme weather permitting) on the ‘Tideway’ section of the Thames River, racing from the Chiswick Steps to the Vesta RC flag pole.
After the cancellation of Fours Head due to the winds of storm Bert, these crews will be itching to get on the water and race, many for the first time this season.
London Rowing Club
London’s first eight had a spectacular 2023-2024 season, including winning the Championship Eight at Remenham Head last year, however, fell just short to Thames in a nail-biting semi-final at Henley Royal Regatta. They are fielding two eights in the championship category this weekend, and will be determined to not let their Embankment rivals stay on top this season. It is clear they are looking to put down an early marker of their form in this event.
Thames Rowing Club
Thames have an armada of seven eights entered across the club and championship categories. They will be looking to retain the club title they won in this event in 2023, and will be hungry for the spoils in the championship category. They certainly peaked at the right time last season for their Thames Challenge Cup win, whilst chasing London for most of the year in the run up to Henley Royal Regatta. It will therefore be interesting to see how their early season performance looks in comparison to London.
Vesta Rowing Club
After many years of being in the shadow to their two Putney neighbours, Vesta hired double Olympic champion, James Cracknell, as head coach for their men’s squad at the start of this season. The athletes will certainly be hoping that the experience Cracknell has brought to the programme will be reflected in their performances this weekend. They are growing in depth, fielding a championship eight alongside three club boats. It would be difficult to see them immediately challenging Thames and London, however, it is hopeful that they are on the upsurge here.
Molesey Boat Club
Unlike the Putney-based clubs, Molesey have managed to race this season, with a win and second place in Open Eights at Teddington Head. This experience should hopefully stand them in good stead for Remenham, where they have three boats entered in Club Eights.
Predictions
Championship Eight – London Rowing Club
Club Eight – Thames Rowing Club
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