Here it is, the first major regatta of the season which is looking to be the hottest one yet. Wallingford Regatta, situated on the picturesque Dorney Lake, will welcome over 100 trailers from all around the country to put themselves on the mark for the rest of the season. This year we have 14 crews racing the schools double. Which makes the heats a perfect 7 lane battle.
Hereford Cathedral School
With no entry into the Quads category this year, Hereford look to have their strongest double out on Dorney Lake on Sunday. After an amazing J16 season last year, I would imagine these 2 lads would be from the famous quad from last season. With the likes of Newark and Kings Chester being drawn against them in the heat I’d imagine Hereford to take this category by storm.
Warrington Rowing Club
Warrington, with again no entry in the Quads this year, this will be Warrington’s top double out of their 4 man squad. After a pretty unknown season last year but a 12th place finish at the Sculling head this year, it will be interesting to see how these 2 fair up against the top in the country. With an abundance amount of experience in this boat, Warrington will be a force to be reckoned with through the whole day as they have been entered into the Challenge category later that day.
Newark Rowing Club A + B
Newark, East of Nottingham have 2 boats entered this year. A big surprise that they haven’t opted for the quad as the chance to pre – qualify for Henley Royal will be snatched. Ollie Robertson of Newark recently attended the GB Beach Sprint trials to which he got a 2nd place in. This means with Ollie’s wide range of skills they could be with intent of a top 3 finish
King’s School Chester A + B
King’s Chester, one of two north west clubs entered into this category means a wide range of competition from up and down the country. King’s have 2 boats entered this year, one being a strong heavyweight crew and the other being lightweight. In the A crew we see Luke Dillion, Luke recently attended the GB U19 trial in Nottingham to which he laid down a fast overall time to give him a chance of a GB vest. With Lukes incredible speed and power, it will be interesting to how up to speed his partner is that will get them a decent placing on Sunday.
Prediction
Obviously it being the first regatta back it will be hard to tell where these lads will place on Sunday. But with the names mentioned above and the experience certain crews have, this will be my prediction for Sunday.
1st – Hereford Cathedral School
2nd – Kings School Chester
3rd – Warrington Rowing Club
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