11 pictures of crews in fancy dress from Stratford’s fun regatta
FROM rugby players and superwomen to Hawaiian costumes– the River Avon in Stratford was a colourful sight at the weekend as the fun regatta returned.
Organised by Stratford Boat Club, the event on Saturday featured 23 crews from local companies and villages as well as groups of friends who had just three hours’ training before heading into the competition.
Most of the crews, who are all coxed by members of the club’s junior squad, opted for fancy dress so there were owls, cats, chickens and gangsters clutching the oars.
When the water had all settled, the overall regatta winner was the Never Mind the Pollocks 2.0 team with the Owls and the Grumpy Cat runners-up.
However, the Owls and the Grumpy Cat did win best headgear while recognition for general dazzling pink exuberance went to Plastic Fantastic and the winner of the ‘simply stylishness and cool vibe’ was the Barley Field Gangsters.
Team EDdy Currents won the inaugural NHS RD Team Cup with the Cox Inhibitors second.
Fun regatta organiser Adam Franklin said: “We were heartened by the huge numbers who came to watch, cheer the competitors on and enjoy the spectacle even though the weather wasn’t ideal.
“It may not have been Henley Royal Regatta but we like to think that it was more fun to watch.”
He added: “Through the hard work and all the efforts of club members, we have been able to raise funds for replacing equipment, repairs and maintenance.
“As always, we are especially grateful for the tolerance of those who make their living on the river and to our sponsor, Crowne Plaza hotel, Stratford.”
Dawson Curnock, boat club chairman said: “A fun day was had by all and Stratford Boat Club was happy to contribute to the vitality and atmosphere of the town and give visitors and residents a cause for celebration.
“We were so grateful that Stratford’s deputy mayor Cllr Dani Hunter and her daughter visited us and presented prizes to the winners; Stratford Town Council’s support is essential for the encouragement for sport and recreation in the Warwickshire area and community.”
