Dancer is the winner in the battle of reindeer on the river in Stratford
SANTA’S reindeer were seen on the River Avon on Boxing Day… as rowing crews were given festive names as they competed in the traditional Boxing Day Scratch regatta.
The Stratford Boat Club event, over 600m from the ferry to the club grounds, attracted 24 rowers for the coxed fours knockout racing.
The ‘luck of the draw’ brought together combinations of adults, juniors and novice rowers as well as former juniors returning from university - including athletes likely to be competing in the March 2024 University Boat Race.
After some wild steering, splashing and crabbing, the winning crew was Dancer which included Rebecca England, Arne Flood, Kjersti Rogneflaten Woolley and Tom Woodcock.
Kjersti said: “It was great Boxing Day racing. Each round had its excitement, first with a crab and the second with a crash of oars and boats: possibly not our prettiest rowing but we went for power and persistence which won through.”
Amanda Bowden, women’s masters vice captain, who acted as finish umpire, said: “Well done and thanks to all who came down to race and to those who came and supported the event. The winners of the plate competition were Prancer while the overall winners of the valued chocolates were Dancer.”
Paul Stanton, the club’s president added: “Many thanks go to Dave Edwards, masters men’s vice captain, for organising the event, Amanda Bowden, Ian Wilcock, safety officer on the launch, and to Dawson Curnock, chairman and starter for running the event.
“The start of 2024 is looking good and the club looks forward to training and competing in local, regional and national head of the river races.”
