For this years Women’s Head of the River Race, we see good calm weather being predicted and a slighter warmer breeze. Useful for racing crews. For Club Pennant, crews must be part of a British rowing club; as such all clubs participating for the Provincial, Small and Medium Club Pennants are also eligible. There are only seven crews that are eligible for winning this pennant as part of the open category that we are reviewing.
Leander Club
Leander Club ‘B’, ‘C’ and ‘D’ kick us off, being set off relatively early on in the races, these crews will have the benefit of the strong tide on their side along with a clearer run down the course. Leander have a strong depth within the squad and have performed well in the recent Boat Race fixtures against Oxford and Cambridge, suggesting that all three will place well during this years race.
Thames RC
After an impressive 2021/22 summer season, the Thames squad has only grown in number. This has been highlighted with their impressive races thus far in the 2022/23 winter season. With the ‘B’ crew being a strong contender in this category, their previous successes will be built on as the season goes, and this race is no exception.
Lea RC & Curlew RC
Lea RC ‘A’ having had a good race at Quintin Head in January, coming a respectable second in the senior category will want to build on this title over the same stretch of water. In the same category also at Quintin Head, we saw Curlew RC race. The ladies at Curlew will also be aiming to improve, and with the knowledge of this river in a race, they have every chance too.
Molesey BC & Tideway Scullers School
Molesey BC ‘B’ and Tideway Scullers School ‘A’ are familiar to this infamous stretch of the Thames. Both clubs are strong and are formidable on the water, although they didn’t race at Quintin Head, they will surely be looking to start their summer racing with solid winter racing under their belt.
Prediction
Looking forward into this race, as well as considering squad depth and previous results, I predict Leander ‘B’ to take the win, followed by Thames RC ‘B’, then Leander ‘D’ in third. It’ll be a tight race as always. Steering, along with mental and physical strength all playing a major part in who can take home the pennant. Good luck ladies!
About The Author
