Winter Head results
The Senior women’s squad, often over-looked during the rowing silly-season (when the novices come out to play!), have been putting time in on the water consistently since the beginning of term. Indeed, many members of the senior squad erged over the Summer in what could be interpreted as a sign of unwavering commitment (or perhaps just masochism!). In order to put all of this effort to good use, a Senior VIII crew entered Winter Head on 20 November; a 2.5km head race on the Cam organised by Cantabs Boat Club. The varying availability of the senior women’s squad meant that a scratch crew rowed on the day of the race. Moreover, as the race was held in the aftermath of a particularly vivacious Boat Club formal swap with an unnamed W1, it was difficult to predict how the crew would fare. However, following an inspiring race plan delivery by Josh (our Bumps cox-to-be...we have proposed!), all focus was firmly in our boat and we were motivated. This showed in the solid performance the crew delivered on the day; all eight rowers put power down with stroke pair setting the perfect rhythm. Josh’s calls were spot-on; the ‘Power 10 for the scones’ call was particularly appreciated by our pre-race chef Aoife! As we approached the final 500 metres the crew in front of us steadfastly refused to move aside despite repeated calls as we gained on them. This added a bit of drama to what was an otherwise cool, calm and collected performance. The crew finished 14th overall in the division recording an impressive time of 10.22, just 40 seconds behind the winning crew, Downing, the challengers for Head of the River next Mays. All in all, a storming start to the year for the Women’s squad.
