This will be the first regatta of the season for the vast majority of these crews which means it will be very interesting to see how they compare this early on. The Op School 8+ has been flooded with entries so much so that there will be 23 crews over 4 heats all going for one final, the last race of the day. This is set to be an awesome day of racing.
Hampton
Based on the Molesey stretch of the River Thames, Hampton have one of the best and most sheltered stretches of water around. Coached by Colin Greenaway, ex GB international athlete. He has led the programme through a successful winter season with wins and strong results from Hampton Fours and Eights head and Schools Head. With this building momentum Hampton will be a force to be reconned with come regatta season.
Radley
Having 3 crews entered into this event it is clear that Radley have got an enormous amount of depth this year. Coming in 6th at SHORR a few weeks ago is certainly an encouraging sign that these boys will have a successful start to the season this weekend. They also obtained an incredible result at the junior trials regatta, winning the B final is an exceptional result and I fully expect their A crew to make the final, and possibly their B crew to cause a potential upset.
Shiplake
As one of the favourites to take the win on Sunday I am sure the Shiplake boys will be full of confidence, but also have plenty of nerves. Already having such a successful season which includes winning the Schools Head, could this be the year in which Shiplake go all the way and bring the Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup back to Oxfordshire for the first time ever.
St Edwards
Informally know as ‘Teddies’ they have undeniably regained some form this season, compared to their glory days. Progressing from 6th at NSR 2021, to 3rd in the Champ 8 at Schools Head. A mere few seconds behind Eton and Shiplake. Teddies also have an abundance of talent in the trials system this year. Achieving a 6thplace finish in the M2- at the most recent assessments, along with other boats also making finals. These boys should definitely make the final and place highly in it.
St Pauls
Bobby Thatcher has produced some world class eights in his time at St Pauls. However this year it is not as clear cut. Still confidently right at the top of current School boy rowing, but undoubtably they will want to regain there once fearful form. Definitely don’t rule St Pauls out of contention for the win.
Westminster
A little bit of an unknown quantity. The infamous pink strip of Westminster may come out of the blocks roaring on Sunday. They have got some real international talent by the likes of Max Peel and Thomas Griffin who I am sure will be ready to take it to the likes of Shiplake. I would expect them to reach the final, although they may have to go through the repechage in order to do so.
Other mentions
In addition to these main stream school programmes there are also a considerable number of entries from smaller clubs that we don’t often see much of. Claires Court seem to be swapping sculling for sweep. Whilst we have a very unexpected entry from Llandaff Rowing Club. It is great to see these clubs competing against the big hitters in the schools 8+
Predictions
There are a number of crews that could take the top prize. On current form, I would expect Shiplake to win. However both St Pauls and Radley are well in contention for the win. In terms of the rest of the field, KCS, St Edwards and Westminster should all be making it do the final. Away from the front, it will also be fascinating to see how the smaller programmes compare against one another. Claires Court, Dulwich and Reading Blue Coat should all be evenly matched.
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