By Mrs Reeves (Director of Rowing)

The Boat Club ventured to London en masse this past Wednesday, all set to embrace the challenge of the Schools’ Head of the River Race (SHoRR).  

As we have come to expect from this (un!)eventful season, the Tideway greeted us with a yellow flag warning, signalling high tidal flows. This prompted a swift change of plans for our J15s, who were redirected to the welcoming shores of Dorney Lake, generously hosted by Eton College. We extend our gratitude to Eton College for seamlessly coordinating the event, especially for a year group that has not had much of a chance to race this year. 

Despite these logistical adjustments, the day turned out to be glorious, offering ideal rowing conditions with flat and fast waters, and minimal wind at both Dorney Lake and along the Tideway Championship course. 

Our crews delivered strong performances against a competitive national field. The 1st Eight and J16 Eight each secured 7th place finishes in their respective categories, reflecting their dedication and skill. The 1st Eight result is one of the best we have seen from a BGS crew for a number of years.  

Notably, our J15s achieved an impressive 2nd place in their debut sweep race - a testament to their hard work and determination. 

Special recognition goes to our exceptional coxes Licia Cacioppo and Sophia Baugh, who expertly navigated challenging Tideway waters, as well as to Lily Lowe, a courageous J14 who seamlessly integrated into the higher year group’s crew for her inaugural race!

 The coaching team were understandably delighted with the day's achievements, but more importantly, thrilled to see our rowers out enjoying some racing once again.  

Our rowers now have a well-deserved week to rest and recover before heading on training camp over the Easter break. This camp sets us up for a much anticipated, and hopefully successful, regatta season ahead! We look forward to seeing our younger rowers compete at the National Junior Sculling Head tomorrow.  

A huge thank you to all parents who continue to support and encourage the rowers in their endeavours.  

Crews:

1st VIII: L Cacioppo (cox), E Dyall, M Partridge, O Smith,  E Vickers, E Mullan, M Ibbott, L Giles,  E Pinkney. 

J16 VIII: S Baugh (cox), E Feiger, I Moretto, E Blake, E Julyan, J Searle, L Fraser, E Robson-Green, H Blewitt. 

J15 VIII: L Lowe (cox), K Farquhar, R Palmer, Z Breed, R McGregor, R Lock, I McCarthy, M Butler, E McCutcheon.