STRATFORD Boat Club’s annual Scratch Regatta took place early on Boxing Day morning in the best possible conditions.
More than 70 members managed to leave their beds after the overindulgence of the Christmas festivities, supported by friends and relatives who came down to the river to watch the spectacle.
“There were seven races in all over a short sprint course from the ferry to the club grounds on the town stretch of the River Avon,” said coach Alfie Noakes.
“The crews were selected to ensure close and exciting racing.”
Emma Wellstead, Stratford Boat Club fund-raiser, added: “The racing provided great interest to early morning sightseers and visitors watching from the Recreation Ground, The Royal Shakespeare Terrace, Bancroft Gardens and The Tramway Bridge.
“The Scratch Regatta caught the imagination of all who came down to the river and we hope that it will give added impetus to fund-raising in 2017 to achieve funds to bring sport to all in the area.”
Stratford Boat Club rowers were back on the river this week as they prepare for the 2017 head season and their own regatta in June.
