The first race of the day laid the foundations for what could be an exquisite Henley Royal Regatta for our antipodean cousins. In a heat of the Thames Challenge Cup, Wairau Rowing Club kicked-off a day of non-stop success as all but three Kiwi and Australian crews progressed through to the next round of racing.

London Calling

London Rowing Club were one of those three clubs to fell an Australasian giant. In a heat of the Wyfold Challenge Cup, London were nip and tuck all the way down the course in a barnburner of a race with their opponents, Aramoho Whanganui, New Zealand. The result from the announcer was that London Rowing club won “by the narrowest of margins”, but the official verdict was by an inch! This race is extra special for Angus Shotter for he himself was born and raised in New Zealand.

Photo Spectators overlook the landing stages // Wednesday, Henley Royal Regatta 2019

Credit Benedict Tufnell

Umbrella-Gate

The Scots College, Australia had somewhat of a dampener put on their win.  The crew clashed with an umbrella which had strayed onto the course shortly after the start. This did not hinder the crew as they went on to beat Claire’s Court School by nearly two lengths. 

Red Mist Descends

The ever competitive Wyfold Challenge Cup saw one of the day’s closest races unfold between Marlow Rowing Club and City of Bristol.  In a race that came down to a matter of 3ft it was the Chairman’s club, Marlow, who came out on top.  After the race they said, “One of the boys who had been subbing in for us during various illnesses was shouting at Remenham.  As soon as we heard him, we were off.  It gave us such a boost!”

The Luck of the Irish

As golden sun beamed down on the Henley course, Commercial Rowing Club, Ireland got their campaign off to a flying start as they comfortably dispatched Nottingham Rowing Club by just under four lengths. For Cameron in the three seat, this was his first time down the boomed course in eight years.

Photo Spectators overlook the landing stages // Wednesday, Henley Royal Regatta 2019

Credit Benedict Tufnell

Oh when the Saints go marching in

For the second time today a seeded Imperial College crew have been uprooted.  This time the victors were the University of St. Andrews in the Prince Albert Challenge Cup. The Scots said, “We have found the course far more challenging than our beautiful home, Loch Ore but we’re here to prove that our performances today and in qualifiers weren’t a flash in the pan.”

Looking Ahead

While crews racing in the Diamond Jubilee and Prince Albert will take a day off racing, The Britannia Challenge Cup will have its opening races.  The Henley course will also be graced with the start of the Intermediate events along with the Open small boats.  Thursday also brings the opening heats for the Remenham Challenge Cup, featuring some of the finest Women’s Eights the world has to offer.