On Saturday 10th May, UCBC women took nine rowers and a coxswain to the 150th Bedford Regatta. We were entered in both the women’s Novice 8+ and the College 8+ events. Crew changes meant that our successful Women’s Head of the River crew from last term had one last chance to compete together ahead of seat racing the next week.

The day started well for us. Unfortunately for St Catz, we had been drawn against them in the first round of both events. We beat them twice in the space of an hour, by 5 lengths in the Novice 8+ and easily in the College 8+. A much-appreciated break then followed, allowing us the chance to rest, eat, and discuss the remaining races.

We faced St Edmund’s School in the second round of the Novice 8+, winning comfortably by 2 lengths. Unfortunately, we were then defeated by a Blues-heavy Emmanuel College boat in the final of the College 8+ in a tough race, missing out by 1 and ¾ lengths.

The day ended on a high with a victory over King’s School Chester RC in the final of the Novice 8+ event by 1 and ½ lengths. We were particularly pleased to win our first pots!

Thank you to all the girls who competed, and an additional mention to David Hunter for his ongoing support and photography skills. We would also like to thank our coach, John Ewans, for his commitment to the squad, which played a big part in our success on the day.

Posted on May 22, 2014