Lent Bumps Day 4

W2 were the first crew up and perhaps could have done with some of the luck W1 had received the previous day. Chasing a Clare Hall boat who had clearly had a chat with their cox about the importance of turning when one approaches a bend rather than rowing straight into the other bank and with a fast Girton boat behind them they were set for a tough row. With a strong start and hitting a fast pace the crew were forced wide around first post corner by clearing crews. Unfortunately at this very moment the footplate in the two seat decided enough was enough making it impossible for the cox to make the bend. As a result of this W2 mounted the bank and were subsequently bumped by a gleeful Girton (can’t wait to see Girtoncam). M1, racing in division 3 had a tough challenge with a fast Catz II behind. Unfortunately the crews ahead bumped out leaving M1 chasing Tit Hall for an overbump and with Catz right up their arse. Some choice words from stroke man Tim Daines and the realization that they were 2 feet away from being bumped gave the boys a boost and along the reach they rowed away from Catz finishing several lengths clear.

A special mention here has to go to First and Third Trinity for their excellent tactics as detailed below (presumabliy written by Salty’s Mate- epic lad):

Although the results seem bad, we in fact allowed ourselves to be bumped today as a tactical decision. Having realised that our original goal of taking the overall headship arms only might be just out of reach, we carefully considered our options.
Viewing the chart further down, it can be seen that Hughes Hall didn't make a double overbump, overbump or even a bump today, and instead had to row the entire course without colliding with any terrified crews and ripping open their faces to devour their souls.
This will make them angry, so angry that if we had remained 6th in the division we would have almost certainly been triple overbumped by them tomorrow - instead this fate will befall Churchill, and we will cower triumphantly at the edge of the river as Hughes pass by."

W1 took to the water fully understanding that Pembroke II would be out for our arse. With a high possibility of an early bump on Homerton it was all about keeping it clean and relaxed. This part of the plan went well. Homerton were bumped in 49 seconds and we pulled away from Pembroke II. Unfortunately Pembroke II really were out for our arse and decided in their wisdom not to carry on on their line which was clear of both us and homerton, but instead steered directly for our cox. Luckily he know’s bad coxing when he see’s it and managed to jump into the stroke seat just seconds before the pembroke boat mounted our stern and settled with their bow girl sat over the coxes seat of our boat. To be fair, they did themselves a lot more damaged than us. Really hope there is some video/photo of that!