Rowers Gain Skills and Confidence at Elite French Training Camp

During the Half term break, 17 enthusiastic rowers set off on a Training Camp to Le Temple Sur Lot, France. The venue, which was an official training site for the French Rowing team in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympics and, more recently, by other international Rowing teams, offered world-class facilities that made the experience exceptional.

The first day brought an unexpected challenge: high river currents, which kept us off the water for the morning. We were quick to make the most of the situation, using the gym, ergos, swimming pool and recovery areas – including ice baths, saunas and steam rooms to our full advantage.

Once conditions improved, the rowers threw themselves into intense training sessions, combining technical skill development, race practice and scenic river explorations. Crews were mixed across different age groups, allowing everyone to make new friends and progress both as teams and individually. Although we managed to stay capsize-free for four days, we eventually had two capsizes (in true Rowing fashion), which provided plenty of laughter and entertainment for the French spectators.

In their downtime the rowers enjoyed trying French cuisine, taking part in team building activities and relaxing after long days on the water.

The rowers returned home more confident, experienced and full of memories from an unforgettable week of training, teamwork and fun. Thank you to Mr Messent, Miss Tuckwood, Mrs Whiteley, Mr Hales and Bosh who made the trip possible and helped provide the rowers with opportunities and skills they wouldn’t otherwise have.

Report written by Lillie Sawyer, Upper Sixth