Results and reports by Event

First Round (versus Eton College): A bad case of first-race-syndrome; our rowing certainly doesn't tend to be at its best in the first part of an outing/race/regatta. Additionally, there was a pretty strong wind getting up. We rated high off the start but it didn't feel comfortable, the rhythm call didn't have the desired effect and there was a hint of panic when we didn't catch Eton round the inside of the corner. I felt we certainly could have won this race had we rowed well, it was only a J16 Eton crew!

Plate Quarter Final (versus St Peter's College Oxford): A massive improvement on our first race. We started fast on the outside station (ie ahead) and never really let the oppo gain an inch. We hit our rhythm well and by the time we passed under the town bridge (approx 1/2 way(?)), the race was comfortably ours. The conditions (still strong, gusting wind) did not prove too much of a problem this time round. We could afford to let the rate creep down a bit at the end. This race was a good reminder of how we should be rowing and raised the morale substantially.

Plate Semi Final (versus Magdelen College Oxford second boat): We went in to this race with plenty of confidence. In my time, the Clare first VIII has never lost to an Oxbridge college second boat. We disappeared off the stake-boat with possibly the smoothest start I have ever experienced in a rowing race. For the first ~20 strokes we were flying. We chugged along efficiently for the rest of the race, taking the rate down in the latter half.

Plate Final (versus Magdelene College Cambridge): A slightly disappointing result but a fairly solid row. The guys in the 4+ were feeling the effects of their six previous races and did an awesome job of keeping the rate up and the power going down. The push in the final 200m was particularly encouraging, although perhaps should have come earlier. Magdelene will no doubt be very happy with the outcome given our bumps positions. Bearing in mind the circumstances on the day and the margin at the finish, we're not too bothered at this point.

Uploaded Sunday 13th May, 13:51