Apologies for a period of radio silence; the late Easter has meant an even more hectic start to the summer half than usual.
Not many of my thoughts on Wallingford can be posted on a public forum. The ever ambitious programme of racing and heads being kept firmly in the sand despite a consistent weather forecast and a settled weather system bringing stiff North Easterly winds (a crosswind at the Lake) meant that the afternoon could only really have one outcome. Conditions weren't dangerous (straight headwinds and tailwinds make conditions dangerous because you get waves on the Lake), it's just that no-one could get any races started (or be bold enough to send away crews which couldn't attach).
However, Upper Boats came out of the day pretty well, with The VIII beating all school opposition (including Radley who must be one of our main rivals this year) and half the 2nd VIII got to win in a coxed four, beating a late Maidstone entry with some international pedigree. Those lower down the club weren't lucky enough to be able to get so much from the day.
This weekend saw us hosting the annual 'BASHER' races at the Lake, whilst four members of The VIII were away racing for GB in Munich. There was plenty of exciting racing (all completed ahead of time) and there were many good results for the club. Junior Colts have clearly been making up good ground, and they won an all J15A race against Hampton, Abingdon and Westminster. The 3rd VIII which has come into being this half has a bit of pedigree, and they put in two pleasing multi-lane races, winning both. The 2nd VIII saw off rivals Abingdon to be the fastest crew of the day.
All in all, the club is in good shape with three weeks to run until National Schools'. Fingers crossed for a smooth run in.
