On a crisp and clear morning, the picturesque River Fowey played host to a new winter league series. The St Austell Bay Winter League invited crews from Charlestown, Mevagissey, Fowey and St Goran to battle it out in their first taste of racing this year.
Jude Osborne from St Goran highlighted the inspiration behind the winter league, saying, “After listening to the commentary at Newquay and the other major championships, it became clear that a lot of places have winter leagues. We thought it was a good opportunity to set up our own one here with the other St Austell Bay clubs to get in some solid winter training.”
The water was calm which presented the perfect conditions for some side by side racing. Rob Cherry from Fowey shared his thoughts on the race, expressing, “We found the racing really invigorating, the water was perfect. The adrenaline was pumping, we know where we are and what we need to do for the season ahead. We are really looking forward to the races going forward.”
What was intended to be a friendly regatta, turning into quite a competitive day. Starting at Punches Cross and finishing at the Du Maurier house, the straight line race lasted approximately 12 minutes.
“It’s been a great day today, some really good races,” Martin Walton of Mevagissey explained, “[It was] great to get some of our novices on the water, several of our rowers today hadn’t raced at all and have only been in a boat 2 or three times. It’s been a really good event, very friendly, everyone helping each other and that’s what it’s all about!”
One of the highlights of the day was definitely the barbains race which involved a mix up of crews across all the clubs. It was so encouraging to see everyone so eager to be involved.
“Mixed Barbarians race to encourage clubs to work together, help meet new people, hear a new coxing style and rowing in a different gig.” said Jude Osborne of St Goran Rowing Club
As the season progresses, these crews will undoubtedly be grateful for the opportunity to race before WPGC24 in May.
Good luck to all crews racing in the next fixture.
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