Wallingford Long Distance Sculls, completed over a 4000m stretch of the River Thames, sees the participation of new WJ16 competitors ready to showcase their skill in the new season. Scheduled for the 30th of September, the regatta is expected to draw crews from all corners of the country, promising a high level and competitive race.
Henley Rowing Club
Henley has made an impressive entry this year by registering multiple single sculls, dominating the category with skilled and experienced scullers. With their formidable lineup, Henley undoubtedly has their eye set on securing top positions in the competition. It is worth noting that eight of their entries have previously claimed silver medals at the National Schools regatta in the WJ15 8+ category, showcasing this age group’s potential for success. Henley will be seeking to capitalize on their sweeping triumph by translating it into equal success in the single sculls event.
Headington School Oxford Boat Club
Headington, boasting the second largest number of entries in this particular category, demonstrated their skill by securing a fourth-place finish in the WJ15 quad at National Schools Regatta. The admirable performance by Elayna Yap, Olivia Nicholson and Eleanor Duxbury indicates their experience and potential in this event. Another one of their scullers could be one to watch as Ria Wallwork took silver in the WJ15 1x at the Junior Sculling Regatta. As the season unfolds, it is anticipated that their achievements in the quad will hopefully transfers on to the niftier single sculls.
Lea Rowing Club
Lea Rowing Club scullers Jess Kerbiriou and Alice Knight have had an exceptionally impressive WJ15 season, showcasing their skills in the double. They secured a second place at the British Championships and achieved a well-deserved first place at the Junior Sculling Regatta. It is also worth mentioning Kerbiriou’s performance at the Junior Championships where she won a silver medal in her single. Even with only two entries, these achievements clearly indicate that their scullers are well-prepared to put out some fierce competition down this course.
Other Entries
Both Sir William Perkins and Wallingford Rowing Club have achieved commendable success with their respective crews. Sir William Perkins secured a respectable 6th place at the National Schools Regatta in the WJ15 4x category, while Wallingford came in 4th at the British Rowing Junior Championships in the same category. These impressive performances indicate that both clubs are likely to be strong contenders in upcoming competitions, and we can expect to see some excellent results from them.
Although I anticipate a close race for the top slots, I believe Lea sculler Jess Kerbiriou may have the edge to take the top spot. I’m unsure if Henley or Headington will have the edge to overcome Lea, but I’m sure they’ll both put on some strong performances across this course.
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