National Schools Regatta 2024 Report

The National Schools Regatta, the largest regatta in the UK and one of the biggest in the world for U19 level rowing, provided a thrilling showcase of talent and fierce competition, from schools, rowing clubs and academies across the country. Despite needing to overcoming and an incredibly difficult winter for the sport, the crews from The Windsor Boys' School rose to the occasion and delivered exceptional performances.

The J14 squad faced a particularly tough winter, with limited time on the water. However, their dedication and perseverance shone through as they continued to train in the gym and participated in a handful of water sessions. Although they were not fully prepared for the event, their potential and determination were evident. Two J14 quads were entered, with one quad unfortunately being eliminated in the time trial qualifiers. However, the remaining quad performed admirably, securing a commendable 3rd place finish in the 'C' final. It was heartening to see other boys from the squad attending the event and supporting their teammates, indicating a promising future for the J14 squad.

The J15 squad also faced challenges during the winter, but having experienced the sport as J14s, they were better prepared for the National Schools Regatta. The squad displayed significant development and progress, showcasing their potential and competitiveness. Two J15 fours competed in the sweep boats category, demonstrating their adaptability and willingness to take on new challenges. In the J15 2nd quads event, a two determined crews qualified for the 'A' final, with the ‘B’ crew in the 2nd boats event showcasing their racing instinct by securing an excellent silver medal, with the ‘C’ crew also racing really well in the final.

The J15 'A' crew, involved in an epic battle with Walbrook Rowing Club, displayed exceptional teamwork, determination, and resilience, resulting in a well-deserved gold medal and a victory in the Creber Cup for J15 Coxed Quads.

The J16 squad delivered an excellent performance throughout the regatta. Two J16 doubles were entered, and while one did not progress past the time trials, the double of Milton O’Brien and Spencer Nicholson came a very credible 4th place in the ‘a’ final in the J16 doubles event.

The crew of Kevin Starczyk, Haris Shawl, Leo Curtis, Cieran Reilly, and cox Milan Martinez embraced the challenge of J16 coxed fours and have achieved impressive results, including representing Thames Upriver at the inter-regional final. Their hard work paid off as they secured a bronze medal in the 'A' final. Additionally, the crew of Tristan Rees-Jones, Tom Peace, Arran Eden, and Pierce Woods competed in the J16 2nd quads event, displaying superb racing skills and claiming the gold medal and Shawcross Cup. The J16 'A' quad of Bailey Taylor, Isaac Thornton, Dara Thomson, and Casper Litherland maintained their dominance throughout the season, securing a gold medal and the Kingston Cup, solidifying their position as the top J16 quad.

In the senior category, three athletes from Windsor Boys' School competed in the Championship Singles event, showcasing their skill and determination. Samuel Richards and Oscar Whelan demonstrated their racing capabilities, while Adam Elliott secured a commendable 3rd place in the 'B' final. In the Championship Doubles event, Tristan Urquhart-Irvine and Arjun Kharay claimed 3rd place in the 'B' final, while Marcus Downie and Antonio Todorov delivered an outstanding performance, earning a silver medal in the 'A' final by the narrowest of margins.

The 1st boat of Atticus Chute, Joe Wellington, Ruben Taylor, and Jimmy Harlow faced high expectations in the Championship Quads event, the flagship event for WBSBC. Despite challenging crosswinds, they exhibited confidence and authority, winning the gold medal and the Forest Cup, which for WBSBC is a hattrick of titles, a testament to the programme and the belief, the aspiration coming from inspiration.  Their focus now shifts to Henley Royal Regatta and the upcoming international season.

The National Schools Regatta was a resounding success for the Windsor Boys' School Boat Club, with high participation numbers and a vibrant atmosphere at Dorney Lake. The club extends its gratitude to the parents, supporters, and coaches for their invaluable contributions. The WBSBC Marquee village was just excellent and the buzz about the place tangible. What an atmosphere it was. I hope you all enjoyed it! Looking ahead, preparations for future regattas and competitions are already underway, and the club anticipates an exciting journey ahead.

Onwards to the rest of the season!

A note on 2025.

It is confirmed the National Schools Regatta will be in Nottingham in 2025. My advice is to book hotels now, perhaps on bookings.com to ensure a cancellable booking. We are already booking the accommodation for the athletes and coaches. The regatta will lead into the May/June summer ½ term as per normal.

NSR FINAL Medals

Championship Quads 1st boats – Forest Cup

GOLD

J16 1st Quads – Kingston cup

GOLD

J15 1st Quads – Creber Cup

GOLD

J16 2nd Quads – Shawcross Cup

GOLD

Championship Doubles – Fox Tankard

SILVER

J15 2nd Quads – for J15 second quads

SILVER

J16 Coxed Fours – Arundal Cup

BRONZE