Rowing from Strength to Strength at Henley and Beach Sprint Championships
RGS rowers have enjoyed continued success on both river and shoreline in recent weeks, with outstanding performances at the Henley Women’s Regatta, the Stratford-upon-Avon Junior Sprint Regatta and the Welsh Rowing Under 19 Beach Sprint Championships.
At Henley, Olivia Hodgson and Lucy Whiteley represented RGS in the Double Scull along with Lottie Richardson and Martha Colclough, also in a Double. Olivia and Lucy progressed confidently through the time trials, finishing among the top 16 crews out of more than 30. Their strong form continued as they defeated teams from Canberra Girls Grammar School (Australia) and Hartpury College in the head-to-head rounds to reach the semi-final stage for a second consecutive year. Despite a determined effort, they were narrowly beaten by two lengths, bringing an impressive run to a close. Lottie and Martha did not progress through the time trials, only five seconds short of the time needed to qualify; however, this is an incredibly impressive feat, as they were competing in the age group above.
At the Stratford-upon-Avon Junior Sprint Regatta, RGS rowers competed across 14 events and reached eight finals, securing victories and delivering many exciting finishes that went down to the final strokes. The Regatta was also a reflection of the team’s excellent attitude, teamwork and sportsmanship, which were noted throughout the day.
Olivia and Lucy also competed in the Welsh Rowing Under 19 Beach Sprint Championships, an event which saw both qualify for the final, resulting in an all-RGS contest. Olivia claimed Gold and Lucy took Silver, with this latest success adding to Olivia’s English Championship title. She will now compete in the Scottish Championships which could see her become the Nations’ Champion. At the same time, preparations continue for the upcoming GB Trials. Both rowers have been invited to trial for the Great Britain Beach Sprint team, with the potential to compete at the European and World Championships later this year.
