Women’s Eights Head of the River 2024 – Open Club Eights Preview

WeHORR is the largest and most iconic women’s distance rowing race in the world, and the ‘open’ category, formerly known as the ‘elite’ category, is truly for the best of the best in UK domestic women’s rowing. 

Leander RC

Going off second this weekend is Leander B, consisting of GB vests, Henley Royal Regatta Red boxes and Henley Women’s medals, alongside previous success on the championship course. It is likely that we will be seeing several of Leander’s trialists hitting the water this weekend wishing to either match or succeed last year’s achievements. Overall, the pink hippo will be storming down the course aiming to gain another pennant to add to their collection. 

Thames RC

The ladies of Thames RC have been at the absolute top of the club scene over the last few years, with successive wins in the Wargrave at HRR and Copas Cup at HWR. Having come 6th last year, and with a handful of rower showing face at GB trials, Thames will be ready to race hard on their home waters. However, I do not believe this crew will quite be able to obtain the overall headship this year, especially following a devastating loss at Remenham Head in the women’s championship eights category. 

Molesey BC

Speaking of Remenham Head, Molesey BC women’s first eight in many ways are the one to beat, after beating the likes of Thames, London and Vesta in their backyard. Comprising five February 2024 trialists, this boat must be something special to contain so many ex-GB under-23s and bring a number of athletes out of retirement. However, it is worth noting their loss to University of London at Hammersmith Head was surprising. 

Prediction

The fight for the club pennant will be fiercely fought for between these three highly successful programmes. Based on previous performance this season I would not be surprised by a win from Molesey BC, but the strength of Leader cannot ever be understated. 

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