Unfortunately the first planned instalment of this year’s Winter League at Salcombe was cancelled twice due to poor weather conditions. Luckily, Paignton had great weather for their fixture which took place on the 2nd of December.
Rowers reported it to be a chilly but beautiful day. “It was an excellent day, with some great rowing from Dartmouth, Brixham, Yealm, Teignmouth, Salcombe and Paignton.” said Sarah Hellend of Paignton ARC.
The South Devon Winter League is so far proving very popular with 51 crews entering Paignton’s fixture. With many rowers taking a break after the conclusion of the championship season, there was a sense of excitement in the air as clubs unloaded their boats at Paignton.
River Teign took 1st place in both the Women’s A and B categories. Dartmouth came 1st in the Men’s A and Salcombe placed 1st in the Men’s B.
There was some tough competition in the U16 category, Brixham took 1st place followed by Dartmouth in 2nd place and Teign in 3rd. Dartmouth fielded the fastest Mens Super Vets and dramatically drew first place in the Women’s Super Vets with Dartmouth. Dartmouth also took 1st place in the Men’s Vet race.
“All the races were closely fought. The Women’s Super Vets winners had a draw so that was super close. As were the men’s vets! Salcombe borrowed our old boat ‘Storm’ and proved that she is still able to beat other boats. An exciting day all round.”
Tracey Western, Paignton.
It was very encouraging to see a novice race at the fixture. The category aimed to build race experience for beginners in mixed crews. Dart’s novices were the fastest of the day, finishing in 1st place with Brixham coming 2nd and Yealm taking 3rd place.
“It was the first novice race we have held with mixed crews. Our crew came 5th but thoroughly enjoyed the experience and they are super excited about the season ahead”.
Tracey Western, Paignton
We look forward to sharing the results from the next South Devon Winter League event on 6th January, to be hosted by River Teign.
Photo credit: Sarah Tingle
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