SATURDAY saw The Great River Race on the Thames in which two crews from Stratford Boat Club’s recreational squad – who had been through previous Explore Rowing courses at Stratford – took part.
“What a great race this year! This time our crew in a Cornish gig did the 21 miles in two hours and 59 minutes and came 39th out of 47 in our group. Last year we came last!” said Ruth Winter, recreational crew organiser.
“Our other Stratford crew in a Pangbourne gig with 12 rowers did the course in three hours, a creditable first time performance,” said Ray Coyte, recreational squad captain.
“We all worked together well and kept up with the boat we had set up as our pace boat. Eventually we passed the pace boat and then flew ahead, passing many others. Very satisfying indeed!”
Will MacLeod, captain of Stratford’s Pangbourne gig, said: “For an adult to row 21 miles is a great accomplishment in itself. For a WJ17 Junior to have achieved this is just amazing. Well done Phoebe, you’re a star and an example to us all!”
“Rowing at Stratford isn’t just about competitions,” said Oli Smith, Stratford’s captain of boats.
“Recreational fun rowing is also very much part of the club’s philosophy and we continue to develop this side and we especially welcome weekday and off-peak rowers.”
‘Shooting Tower Bridge!’. (s)
Shard 2. (s)
The Pangbourne gig. (s)
