Staines Boat Club's Latest News
Archive 01/6/04-31/7/04
30th July 2004 Alison Bond writes ----- Wonder if you might post an invite to Staines Members on the website re the WSPC Beer Fest' on Saturday 7th August? Jeeves tells me we have 7 barrels.
Jeeves adds ----- Hi Graham, hopefully see you and others on the day/night. There is no entrance fee and the 7 beers are just for sale by the pint at club prices. A number of us came down to your beer fest earlier and it was great but of course we will try to do even better. There will be food available too.
30th July 2004 All committee members are reminded that the next committee meeting will take place next Tuesday 3rd August at 8.30pm.
29th July 2004 Putney Town RC advise that they made a mistake in their last email and the date of their barbeque is SUNDAY 8th AUGUST and not the 22nd. Details at dreadnought.org.uk. Please mark your diaries accordingly.
29th July 2004 The Thames Regional Rowing Council is hoping to organise trailer-driving courses to members of clubs in the region. The course is being designed with the practicalities surrounding the towing of boat trailers in mind. Keep an eye on the TRRC website for more details.
28th July 2004 Steve Tassell emails ----- There will be a women’s squad meeting on Monday 13th September down the club from 7pm. This meeting is to set out the plans for the Winter season and is for all existing women rowers at Staines BC. Before you decide whether it’s relevant please read the attached ‘Myths about the Women’s Squad’. First and foremost: -It’s a meeting for anyone who is prepared to train regularly and wants to be part of a squad structure, regular coaching resource etc -We don’t just want to cater for ‘6 dayers’ but domestic rowers too. -It’s a meeting to establish the structure and size of the squad, -set short term squad goals (1st half of winter), establish mid term aspirations (Domestic Heads, HoR etc) -discuss training programs -key dates for the diary -fundraising/sponsorship for boats and equipment -roles and responsibilities within the squad. Any questions let me know. Steve 07802 881857
28th July 2004 Caroline Gill emails ----- Hi, Several people have mentioned to me over the last few days that they are organising a Pubs & Clubs crew but haven't got the form/money together yet. I am keeping a tally and so far we have at least 15 potential crews, which is great news! If anyone else is getting a crew together and hasn't told me already, it would help the organising if you could email me to let me know. Thanks, Caroline
27th July 2004 Dreadnought from Putney Town RC writes ----- Cheers for all the nice stuff you have said about Putney Town on your site, we have now put up our regatta report in Latest news, everyone really enjoyed the regatta, despite our defeat by Staines in the S3 8's, the crew said if they had to lose to any club at the regatta they were glad it was Staines. If you can just let your members know (it might have been done already) that there is an open invitation to all Staines members to our massive Summer BBQ on Aug 22nd, full details at dreadnought.org.uk cheers again! Dreadnought
27th July 2004 Steve Smith emails ----- Hi everyone, after finally awakening myself from the dreamland ;o) I would like to say an overdue THANK YOU to each and every one of you who gave their time to make this regatta one of the best we’ve had! It wouldn’t have worked without everyone sticking to what they said they’d do, and also helping out wherever needed as well. There’s been so many great comments about this years Staines Regatta, I think that we can all be proud of what we’ve achieved! Thanks again, and I’ll see you all down at the club soon, Oz
27th July 2004 Guy Pedliham submits 40 photographs that he took at Staines Regatta which include several rowing action shots. They can be found on page 4 of the Staines photograph pages. See Photographs Page.
27th July 2004 The draw for Henley Town & Visitors Regatta which takes place next Saturday 31st July has been published and can be found on the Regatta Website. Staines have 5 crews competing namely - MN 1x 8.36am (Twaddle) - MS3 1x 10.00am (Neumeister) - WS2 4+ 11.16am - MS2 1x 12.04pm (Neumeister) - WS3 8+ 2.50pm. This is always an exciting regatta to watch as it is one of the few that allows 3 lane racing.
26th July 2004 Ian Martin submits six photographs taken at Burway V&J Regatta yesterday and Paul Goldswain has added three for Saturday's Staines Regatta. See Photographs Page.
26th July 2004 Caroline Gill advises ----- Just a quick note to let you know that the boat booking forms for Pubs & Clubs will be up in the clubhouse tonight. Boats can only be booked once I have your entry form and cheque, and please only use the specified equipment. Any questions just drop me an email. I'm taking my crew out for the first time tonight and they're definitely out to win (or so they say, but judge for yourselves if you're out on the water tonight!) - so if you think you can do better then you need to get a crew together and get training!
26th July 2004 Liz Bernard sends this report from Burway V&J Regatta on behalf of Sir William Perkins's School ----- We had some excellent heat wins (5 in all plus two finals) with some friendly rivalry between SWPS and SBC. Charlotte Jackson, in WJ13 1x got through to the semi-final. Bethan Roberts and Charlotte Jackson got a bye to the final of the WJ13 2x, both sculled well, but unfortunately Bethan's seat came off the runners which she managed to fit back on during the race! Sarah-Jane Gregory in the WJ14 1x just won her first heat against Emma Parkes( SWPS student and SBC member) and Rachel Martin in the same event got through to the final and had a very close race against Charlotte Morrison (SBC), just losing to Charlotte. The WJ14 4x+, a scratch crew with two J13's in it, consisting of Nell Bond, Bethan Roberts, Ingrid Barnsley, and Emily Robinson and coxed by Tommi Breslin, beat both Marlow crews to win the event. Rachel Martin met Charlotte Morrison again in the final of the WJ14 2x which was very closely fought race, Rachel partnered Nell Bond, and Charlotte, Emma Parkes, the SWPS crew gaining victory this time. Full results will be available in due course from the Burway website. See Photographs Page.
26th July 2004 Rob Oades submits a large number of photos taken at Burway V&J Regatta by Steve Kell. They have been added to Page 2 of the Burway page. See Photographs Page. Rob also sends this report ----- "After the successes of the junior boys at the Staines Regatta on Saturday (3 pots), it was the turn of the girls to bring back the silverware the following day at the Burway Junior and Veterans Regatta. Another glorious day saw Staines competing in 9 events against some of the top junior squads in the country. The squad were very competitive and reached the semi-finals in 8 events and 4 finals. Losing semi-finalists were Rob Oades (J14 1x), James Kell (J13 1x), Andrew Frost (MxdJ11 1x) and Becky Corless (WJ14 1x). Rob Oades and James Kell, rowing together for the first time in a regatta, reached the final of the J14 2x event but lost to a fresher Walton crew. Charlotte Morrison and Emma Parks lost the WJ14 2x final by a canvas !! However Charlotte had already given the squad their first victory of the day, winning the WJ14 1x. The second pot of the day was won by Emma Corless and Jenny Goldswain in the Mxd J12 2x. In typical Emma C fashion she kept the Staines supporters on tenter-hooks by catching a crab with them well in the lead. A quite brilliant recovery ensured the pot was not lost ! The highlight of the day saw Jeremy Pollen and his son Nick compete in the Vet/J14 2x. Jeremy knew nothing of this until the draw was published (a stitch-up organised by Ted Dyos as a pay-back for Jeremy's leg pulling over Ted's "when I was in the war" stories). Despite the creaking joints Jeremy survived the race (losing to the eventual winners) and he did not require oxygen from the St John's Ambulance Brigade. A pint in the club bar seemed to help the recovery. Jenny and her mum Carol also competed in this event"
26th July 2004 Regatta feedback here from Jules Reichel ----- We had lots of excellent comments from senior SBC members as well as the competitors about the food for the regatta! I want to pass this on to the ladies who made it all happen... (sorry dad-6PK...) Thanks to Julia Dunlop, Katie, Anna, Alison and some mums whose names unfortunately I did not catch. All sandwiches and an amazing spread of cakes were ready on time and sold in NO time! Thanks also to Hazel and Jackie who patiently sold tea and coffee all day! Mummy and Daddy 6pk covered the BBQ all day and sold out - excellent stuff, thanks everyone! Jules
Terry Moore adds ----- May I thank all the people who made the cakes and sandwiches for the regatta. Also can I pass a vote of thanks on behalf of the Regatta committee to all those who helped to make Saturday a great day. On a more personal note may I thank Julia, Luc Mum, 6 pks Parents and my parents for their help throughout the day, also all the bakers for the cakes that we could not keep on the table long enough. Thanks you and well done. Terry (SAR). Whilst I'm thanking people can I thanks all who helped during the party in the evening for having fun regards of the worn out grumpy barman.
26th July 2004 News of Tyson, our now famous vicious predatory swan, has now reached the Tideway Slug under the headine 'Killer Ducks with Pointy Teeth'. Beware rowers on the Tideway, this swan has wings and he WILL seek you out!!
26th July 2004 Duncan Speight writes from Australia to say that he has again updated the latest news on his and Jodi's web site. The news this time is that Duncan has started rowing at Mercantile and Jodi has a cold!
25th July 2004 Staines Regatta took place yesterday in warm and sunny weather. Adam Gill has just released the official results. They show wins for Staines crews in the following events - Mens Senior III Eights - Womens Senior II Coxed Fours - Mens Veteran B/C Coxed Fours - Mens Novice Double Sculls - Mens Junior 14 Double Sculls - Mens Senior IV Sculls - Mens Junior 16 Sculls and Mens Junior 14 Sculls. Everyone agrees that it was a most successful day.
Steve Tassell sends this report ----- The Women had a mixed bag at Staines regatta. On the face of it some great racing from all crews showing real form. The Novice ‘A’ four of Dom Foley (cox), Katy Burke, Lucy Duncombe, Dianne Gill and Anna Behrendt had a great start to the campaign in their first round against Reading, they won by some 2 lengths by producing some of the best racing I’ve seen from the novice squad this season. In the next round they continued this form gaining half a length lead over Guildford off the start. Unfortunately soon after one of the crew came off her seat causing the crew to stutter for a few strokes. They got things back together only to cross the line a foot down. The ‘B’ novice four of Caroline Gill (cox), Cath Burke. Helen Williams, Bonny Howes and Jackie Hawkins gave a good account of themselves against Eton Excelsior, however, their lack of practice together saw them finish a canvas down by the finish. The Senior 2 four of Dom Foley (cox), Jules Reichel, Jen Page, Alison Rolt and Sarah Tassell got off to a shaky start when slight equipment failure hampered their cause, however they pulled it together to beat Putney Town by 2/3 length. They then met Thames in the final which wasn’t quite as close in the end due to Thames catching a crab near the start, however, a win’s a win and well deserved! Last up Caroline Gill and Hazel Hawkins competed in their first regatta in Novice Double Sculls racing a classy Eton Excelsior crew. Caroline and Hazel have been out only a handful of times in a double and put in a solid performance for their first race. By all accounts they enjoyed the race so hopefully they will compete again soon. Also see Photographs Page.
25th July 2004 Burway Veteran and Junior Regatta took place today with some fine wins for Staines and Sir William Perkins's School crews. Reports are due in shortly. Full results will be available in due course from the Burway website. See Photographs Page.
25th July 2004 Jules Reichel writes ----- Dear Ladies! Please find attached the invite (PDF file) for the 1st annual Women's Rowers Black Tie Dinner. The event will be held at Foxhills on Friday, 24th September 2004 from 19.30 to 24.00. The ticket price is £35 per head (BARGAIN!) ..., please make the cheques payable to "Foxhills" and return by the 23rd August to Jules. Tickets will be issued thereafter. The idea is to celebrate a hugely successful season and all get together to really let our hair down. Partners, boyfriends, friends or anyone else you want to bring are welcome... as long as they can put up with the rowing talk I guess... ?! We have some surprises and surprise guests organised... so get that ticket quickly and we see you for a good bash on the 24th! Any questions.. dont ask me. .... :-) you can catch me at the club most nights or on flyjules1976@hotmail.com. Jules
23rd July 2004 Our Captain, Steve Smith advises ----- All Staines boats competing in tomorrow's regatta must be either put on the trailer tonight or rowed to the boating area tonight. No boats will be allowed to be rowed from the club tomorrow morning. This is due to the constraints of both early swan herding and the strict 3 minute race programme that will be used. I can take some trestles to the boating area tonight about 7pm so please let me know (mob 07958 508564) if you require them.
23rd July 2004 We are delighted that Putney Town RC are coming to compete at Staines Regatta in large numbers tomorrow following the successful joint training venture earlier in the year. A nice bunch of people they are too! Do have a look at their website and the list of their entries in the Latest News.
22nd July 2004 A joint message here from Jules Reichel and Steve Smith ----- "Staines Regatta - We know its short notice but we DESPERATELY need cool boxes to use for the catering on Saturday. With the weather forecast being warm and sunny it is vital we can keep sandwiches cool and safe as long as possible. We would really appreciated if all cool-box owners out there could part from their items for a day. You can leave them in the kitchen - but please attach some sort of name tag so we dont lose them. THANKS A MILLION!! Jules and OZ"
22nd July 2004 Steve Smith
writes ----- Hi Again! Can everyone helping on Saturday please ensure that
they are prepared for the job they are doing. Please ensure that you bring
wet weather gear, especially if you’re in the stake boats, and all
helpers in stake boats, or other launches, please ensure you are wearing
a life jacket at all times. Also make sure you’ve got plenty of sun
cream and water with you. The weather is predicted to be 22 degrees C (71F)
and sunny! Have a great day, and see you there!
21st July 2004 Steve Brett sends this report from last weekend's National Rowing Championships ----- The WJ14 2x, consisting of Emma Parkes and Charlotte Morrison did very well in their Friday eliminator, coming in second to Maidstone Invicta and not allowing Runcorn to overtake them. This ensured them a place in the final on Sunday. Tom Goldswain and I both felt that we had a very good race in our OJ 2x eliminator, even though we did come 4th out of 4. We were up against some very good, strong crews. This put us into the Repechage on Saturday, where we came 3rd out of 4, beating a crew from the Merchant Tailor's School. From this we managed to qualify for the Semi-Finals on Sunday, where we came 6th out of 6th. In the girls' final they stayed 2nd for a long part of the race, but eventually finished 5th. Well done to all crews, and thanks to all those involved. Full results are available on the official website.
21st July 2004 Further to the message yesterday from the club member who wished to remain anonymous for the time being ----- ".... following the last notification .... I would like to confirm that the dates for the Womens squad Black Tie dinner is in fact the 24th of September NOT the 23rd,.,,, blame over training..... "
21st July 2004 For those of you interested in the more technical aspects of rowing, please see 'The Mechanics and Biomechanics of Rowing' by the University of Newcastle's C J F P Jones & C J N Miller. This is a comprehensive insight into rowing techniques, biomechanics and boat velocity, so put your thinking heads on and get your calculators out!
21st July 2004 Our Captain, Steve Smith, advises ----- Hi, everyone, here is the Club Duty Roster for Saturday. Please take note as to where and when you are needed. I have tried to work in everyone’s racing schedule, but have no doubt missed one or two! Can you please let me know as soon as possible if there is a clash, but PLEASE TRY TO SORT THE SITUATION OUT YOURSELF FIRST! Then let me know of the change. This will keep us all a lot more sane on Saturday, and hopefully my head won’t explode! Those names in bold on the roster are in charge of the particular section for the allotted time. If you have any problems, please see these people first, and they should guide you in the right direction. Please arrive 15 mins before you are due to start, so you can be shown what needs to be done. If your name does not appear on the list for any reason, sorry for missing you out, but please still come on Saturday and lend a hand where possible. There will be a lot of small jobs to do, or the occasional sub needed so someone can race. The afternoon still looks a bit thin, so can people make themselves available because this is where we could have some problems. Everyone is boating from Silvery Sands on Saturday, so boats will need to be on the trailer. Also, can all cox boxes please be returned to the club, where they will be taken down to the regatta and stored in the Admin tent on Saturday. Other than that, have a great day, good luck to all the crews racing, and thank you all for doing your bit. This will be a great regatta! - Oz
20th July 2004 Re. SBC CLEAR UP -- Dom Foley emails ----- Robin has asked me to look into clearing the car park and 'wooded area' with my team with the idea of squeezing in a few more parking spaces After a quick survey yesterday, it unfortunately isn't a simple task I can ask my little helpers to do. I have, though, managed to work out how we can place TWELVE, YES TWELVE, valuable parking spaces by extending the site back 7 feet, cutting the hedge rows back. This however needs some work and resource: Wheel barrows Chain Saw, hedge trimmer, Shovels, Planks to run up the side of the skip, or alternatively have a monster bon fire :-) Can you PLEASE PLEASE ask friends and family to help resource this equipment. Doubtful everything will be in place this week, but next week. Look forward to hearing from you, Dom.
Ian Grant emails ----- I would like a couple of volunteers please to help clean the back of the boathouse, from the doubles back. Looks like a simple task so 30 mins each evening will be fine to get the job done by the end of the week. If you own a pair of sculling blades which are kept in that area, don't panic if your blades are not in the place you last left them as they may have been moved to avoid damage while we're cleaning. If you have a single at the back, feel free to help out by tidying up part of the area around the rack where it is kept. Many thanks, Ian
20th July 2004 From a club member who wishes to remain anonymous for the time being ----- Stop Press all women -- Keep diaries free for 23rd September 2004 -- All women's squads (Novice, Senior & Vets) will get together -- Black tie dinner for all -- Details to be confirmed this week -- Let's make it a night and get together -- Invites shortly --
19th July 2004 Guy Pedliham has submitted some photos he took of Staines crews on Saturday at Molesey Regatta. They have been added to the bottom of the Molesey photographs page. See Photographs Page.
19th July 2004 Liz Bernard writes regarding Sir William Perkins's School juniors at Molesey Regatta yesterday ----- We had some excellent heat wins (9 in all plus two finals!). Rachel Martin, in WJ14 1x, got beaten by a canvas in the semi-final and Charlotte Jackson, in WJ13 1x also got through to the semi-final. The WJ13 4x+ after a spirited row just lost in the final (This was Bethan and Emma's 7th race of the day!!). Bethan Roberts and Emma Townshend sculled well, winning the final of the WJ13 2x, and Sarah-Jane Gregory won the WJ14 1x, her first win in her single scull. The WJ14 4x+, a scratch crew of Rachel Martin, Lucie Bishop, Daisy Corfield, and Ruth Blessed (who stepped in at the last minute) and coxed by Tommi Breslin, put up a good fight against Molesey A in the semi-final. A big thank you goes to the parents who enhanced the rowing successes of the day by providing a superb barbeque. Full results will be available in due course from the official website. Also see Photographs Page.
19th July 2004 Adam Gill
19th July 2004 Robin Dunlop advises that the skip has arrived for the enormous SBC clear up this week. Robin adds ----- Team captains have been nominated for specific areas of the tidy up, they are ~: Mark C, Mark R, Max, Fikret, Ian G, Tom & Julian, Jules, Terry, Dom F. Please can everyone make themselves available to these people each evening this week in order to help in the MASSIVE tidy up. Everyone is invited, it's your club. Contact any of the above for details of what when and how.
19th July 2004 Caroline Gill emails regarding the party in the clubhouse after the regatta. ------ We have a late licence for the bar until midnight and there will be a disco 8pm-midnight. The guy running the disco also does Karaoke so if anyone is tempted (or has enough to drink) there will be an opportunity to demonstrate your musical talents as well! Everyone is welcome and hopefully we will be celebrating lots of successful races for Staines crews!
19th July 2004 A new puzzle for you has been added to the Games Page. It is called Guess the Cartoon and you need to identify ALL the characters shown on the page. They have all been drawn by cartoonist Ilan Young. Answers please on a postcard addressed to The Secretary and left in the club's letterbox. There ought to be a prize for the first person to get all 8 correct without cheating but there isn't. Perhaps you will get a mention on this website instead!!
19th July 2004 Adam Gill
18th July 2004 Steve Tassell sends this report from Saturday's Molesey Regatta ----- We had three boats entered for the women’s squad at Molesey and again some great racing across the board! First up was Lucy Duncombe in Senior 3 sculls beating Rachel Twentyman of Vesta in her first round (some of you may remember Rachel had a spell at Staines last year). Lucy went on to lose her next race in what was a close fort battle. Next up Senior 3 eights against Cambridge University. Similar to last weekend at Bedford over half the crew were novice but were using this and the next few regattas to pick up valuable race experience. Staines got a good start but Cambridge got away even quicker to lead by a half length, we then came back to level just as Cambridge pushed on again a pattern that continued all the way down the course. In the end Cambridge won by 1 length a good verdict given the little race experience in the crew. Finally the novice four. We had an unfortunate and abrupt end to our campaign at Bedford when the rudder was ripped off the boat so we were looking to better this result! With half the crew changed from Bedford the line up was Dom Foley (cox), Katy Burke, Anna Behrendt, Dianne Gill and Jackie Hawkins. In the first round they beat Hertford College Oxford by 11/4 lengths, in the semi final beat Barnes Bridge Ladies in what was the second fastest time of the day, the then long awaited final saw us up against Mortlake Anglian & Alpha. Unfortunately Mortlake proved too strong on the day to clock a time faster than the Senior 4 final raced just before but a great effort from the novices and some valuable experience which will set them in good stead for the next few regattas. Well done all and again thanks to all those who hung about ‘til 6:40 to watch the race! Full results will be available in due course from the official website. Also see Photographs Page.
18th July 2004 The annual Swan Upping event starts at Sunbury Lock tomorrow Monday 19th July finishing at Abingdon Bridge on July 23rd. The timetable for Monday gives the following times. Sunbury Lock 09.00 (Departure point), Shepperton Lock 10.45, Penton Hook Lock 12.30 and Romney Lock 17.30. If you are around the club tomorrow morning why not take your camera and take a few photographs of the Uppers ringing the cygnets raised this year on the boat club lawn.
18th July 2004 News just in from the National Rowing Championships is that the WJ14 2x of Charlotte Morrison and Emma Parks came 5th in their final in a time of 8:46.90 and the OJ 2x crew of Tom Goldswain and Steve Brett raced came 6th in their semi final in a time of 7:51.33 so did not qualify for the final. If any of those that were present could send a short report it would be appreciated. Full results are available on the official website.
18th July 2004 Rob Oades sends this report from today's Molesey Regatta. ----- A fine days racing was had by the Staines Junior Squad today at the Molesey Junior Regatta. Eight events were entered and two semi-finals and three finals achieved. Becky Corless and Rachel Edwards lost very close races in the first round, both in their single scull (WJ14) races and when they doubled up in the WJ 14 2X. Nick Pollen in J14 1x, who also doubled up with Rob Oades in the J14 2x, also met the same fate as did Andrew Frost and Thomas Oades in the J12 2x. James Kell reached the semi-final of the J13 1x and Jenny Goldswain reached the same stage of the WJ12 1x. In the final of the WJ12 2x Jenny Goldswain and Emma Corless were narrowly beaten and the distance of 6 inches deprived Emma a victory in the WJ12 1x final - well rowed. The highlight of the day was Rob Oades victory in the J14 1x event. Victories in 3 hard fought races gave Robert his second pot of the season. Again well done to all the Junior rowers and thanks too to all the parents who came along to help and support the squad. Particular thanks go to coach Ted Dyos and Jeremy (tow-man) Pollen. Full results will be available in due course from the official website. Also see Photographs Page.
18th July 2004 Dom Foley emails ----- A big thank you from the club to Steve T, Helge, Anna, Dom F, Diane, Jo, Tom B, Ian G who spent 2 1/2 hours on today tidying up the outside of the club. A lot of hard graft but the result is well worth the effort. Well done all!!!
17th July 2004 Spotted sculling on the river this morning was Gurli Medcalf (nee Rosenwien), Henley Veteran Regatta winner last week in a Tideway Sculler's boat. It appears she was trying a new technique by having her cleaver sculls interchanged on the wrong sides. Obviously this was not to her liking as she was seen shortly afterwards correcting them discretely!!!!!
16th July 2004 News just in from Rob Oades about today's racing at the National Rowing Championships ----- The WJ14 2x of Charlotte Morrison and Emma Parks came a comfortable 2nd in their heat today to a gain a straight place in Sundays final. Race time is 11.03am. The OJ 2x crew of Tom Goldswain and Steve Brett have made the repechage race which takes place on Saturday. Hopefully this will lead to a place in Sundays Semi-final and final.
16th July 2004 Caroline Gill emails ----- We are already starting to get some crews together for Pubs & Clubs, which is excellent news, but if you haven't thought about it yet now is the time to start persuading your work colleagues/ friends/ random relatives/reluctant partners that they really do want to try rowing! If you haven't got enough for a complete crew, please let me know and I will endeavour to match people up. I also have some crews without a cox so if anyone is willing to help out and take on a crew that would be great - just drop me an email. Remember training can start from next week as long as I have received your entry, but please only use the designated boats (booking form will appear in the clubhouse shortly). Many thanks!! Caroline
15th July 2004 The National Rowing Championships of Great Britain takes place this weekend and the draw shows the following Staines crews entered on Friday----- WJ14 2x Race: 124 10:25am Staines BC (C Morrison & E Parks) ----- OJ 2x Race: 189 3:50pm Staines BC (S Brett & T Goldswain). Good luck to both crews.
14th July 2004 Mark Rolt emails ----- I have been asked to forward this to see if anyone is interested. Talk is given by the Osteopath that I have been seeing, plus a number of others from the club, who is also a pretty serious athlete so knows what he is talking about. (i.e. MBE for contribution to sport, Olympics twice and went to the national trials for a laugh last week and came second after only 2 weeks back in training!) The following is taken fron their flyer ----- Food for Performance and Health - a talk by Ivan Lawler - Friday July 16th: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Elmbridge Canoe Club. Learn how food affects every system of your body and thus your physical performance. Make the right choices and excel, make the wrong choices and grow weak. Learn how the right foods will: • Improve Energy • Increase Strength • Boost Immunity • Aid Recovery • Decrease Stress • Reduce Pain • Guard Against Disease. Contact Di Lawler on 01784 454772 or diandroland@hotmail.com Cost: £7 (all proceeds go to The Extension Fund) Please book in advance!
14th July 2004 Robin Dunlop writes ----- Lost!!! 1x small/medium (not sure) Godfrey gillet black (no SBC emblem), 1x rigger jigger silver/grey tape on handle, 1x rigger jigger faint black marker with 'Robin' on it -look hard, 1x yellow handled posi/philips interchangeable screwdriver IF YOU HAVE THESE KNOW WHO HAS THESE HAVE SEEN THESE ITEMS PLEASE CALL ROBIN 07711327192 - I WOULD LIKE THEM BACK
13th July 2004 Julia Reichel emails ----- Hey everyone - there will be a club dinner on Thursday, 15th July - As always large plates of pasta to be consumed. Please let us know by WENDESDAY 12o'clock - see you there - Jules
13th July 2004 Our Captain, Steve Smith writes ----- Hi everyone, as you all know, Staines Regatta is just around the corner on the 24th of this month! It doesn’t happen by itself, and in the past everyone has been great in helping out. This year is the same, and WE NEED YOUR HELP! Please read the job description on the website, and at the club, and put your name down to help at something. As always, we will only be allowing Staines crews to race once all positions have been filled. This is OUR regatta for OUR club. Help put Staines on the map where it belongs! And show the rest of them how great the green and white stripes can be! Oz
13th July 2004 Steve Ballantine emails ----- I need to find some happy helper for novice training tomorrow night at 7pm, Sunday 18th at 10am & Wednesday 21st at 7pm. All help welcome, don't be shy - some have already done their bit. You can have some novices worship your skills and knowledge!! SteveB Mobile 07881 534898 Work 01753 224245
13th July 2004 Molesey Regatta takes place this coming weekend Saturday 17th July (Seniors and Veterans) and Sunday 18th July (Juniors). There are various Staines crews competing on both days and Sir William Perkins's School crews competing on Sunday. Provisional timetables of racing can now be found on the official website.
13th July 2004 Bigblade now have their photos published for all races at last weekend's Henley Veteran Regatta.
12th July 2004 Caroline Gill advises ----- This year's Pubs & Clubs Regatta will take place on Sunday 12th September. Please PRINT THE POSTER and put up at work etc. I am enclosing some information (Word doc) about the regatta and the entry form (Word doc) (apologies to Jodi, I've blatantly copied what she did last year!) and I would ask everyone to start thinking about getting crews together - friends, family, work colleagues, and random strangers are all welcome! Training can start from next week, as long as I have received the completed entry form, and there will be a boat booking form in the clubhouse (specific equipment is allocated for Pubs & Clubs use). I am also looking for a couple of volunteers to help with the organisation, so please let me know if you are keen to be involved. Also, don't forget there will be a Pubs & Clubs party on Saturday 11th September - so put it in your diary now! Thanks, Caroline.
12th July 2004 Ian Grant sends this report from the weekend's racing at Kingston Regatta ----- It was a disappointing and frustrating regatta for the members of the mens squad who travelled to Kingston. Stuart Simms lost out in his S3+ Single scull semi final in the morning. In the afternoon, the S2 4- of Mark Rolt, Max Somper, Mark Cashen and Fikret Ozer, had a straight 3 boat final when expecting a semi-final against Walton. At halfway, on the bend, Cygnet RC squeezed the four onto one of large, more solid metal buoys. They tried to recover but Cygnet RC came into them straight after, causing the race to be stopped. The umpire then decided to award Walton the win instead of a re-row which the crew were willing to do. The S1 8 of the 4- crew, Stuart Simms, Mike Owen, Ian Grant and Helge Neumeister were due to race in the evening in a striaght 3 boat final against Vesta and Kingston, which had the prospects of being a very close and agressive race. But after much debating it was decided to pull out for safety reasons as some marker bouys had moved, narrowing the course at the halfway point, and the race officials were not to keen to delay the race timetable to move some of the buoys. Full results here.
12th July 2004 Steve Tassell writes ----- “Some great racing was had at Bedford this weekend with the Women’s squad putting out three crews. The novice four consisting of Dom Foley (cox), Katy Burke, Helen Williams, Bonny Howes and Jackie Hawkins got off to a great start in their first round beating St.Neots by 4 lengths. Unfortunately though in the next round against Norwich RC the rudder was ripped off on the start pontoon as the four pulled away leaving them with no steering…even more frustrating as despite having no steering they were a good 11/2 up after 100m before they inevitably steered off the course. The S3 eight faired much better despite half the crew having not regularly raced in the eight this season and most still being novice. The crew of Dom Foley (cox), Katy Burke, Sarah Tassell, Jules Reichel, Alison Rolt, Cath Burke, Helen Williams, Jane Hudson and Jackie Hawkins had a row over in the first round, beat Peterborough City by half a length in the semi-final and narrowly lost out to City of Cambridge in the final the official verdict being 1 foot. Lastly the pair of Jen Page and Alison Rolt –who you may recall raced at Henley this year in lightweight pairs- made up for this disappointment by winning S2-. They never really looked troubled in any of their races winning by comfortable margins and starting to really move the boat well together. Well done to everyone for a great weekend of racing”. Full results here.
11th July 2004 The official results for the Staines crews competing at Bedford Quarts Sprint Regatta have now been published and are available here. (note that winners are in bold type). They show a win for Jenny Page and Alison Rolt in the final of the WS2.2- event with a verdict of 'easily' against the composite crew of Rob Roy BC & The Hornets Boat Club. It appears from the results that there was some good racing by all the Staines crews throughout the day.
11th July 2004 Kingston Amateur Regatta took place yesterday with no wins unfortunately for Staines crews. Bedford Quarts Sprint Regatta takes place today. Reports for both events are awaited and will be published here as soon as received.
10th July 2004 Great news from today's racing at Henley Veteran Regatta. I am pleased to report that the D4+ comprising of Bow-Paul Goldswain, 2-Paul Hopkins, 3-John Lusty, Stroke-Graham Carey and Coxswain-Murray Litvak were victorious in their event and took home well deserved gold medals. They won their semi final against Abingdon RC by 1/2 length, again rowing through from 1/2 length behind and then faced the very tidy Dart/ Totnes crew in the final. After a great start the Staines crew had a canvas lead after the first minute and gradually pulled away to finish 1 1/2 lengths clear. This is the second Henley Vets medal for this crew after they won the Vet C4+ title in 2002. The coxless pair of Roland Wood and Ian Harris also raced today in their first race of the regatta since the crew from Abingdon RC withdrew from the first heat. They drew the pair of ex Olympian Martin Cross (also the coach of the Oxford crew in 'The Other Boat Race') and Ian McNuff a lightweight World medallist in the 1980's. They nevertheless gave their all and finished only a couple of lengths down. Full results will be available soon on the official website. Also see Photographs Page.
9th July 2004 Here are today's Henley Veteran Regatta results ----- This morning the C4+ lost to Bradford-on-Avon by 1 1/4 lengths in a good race shortened slightly by the loss of the stakeboats. Apparently the umpires launch succeeded in entangling the anchor lines around it's propellor! During the afternoon the D4+ were beaten off the start in their first race and were 3/4 length down by 250 metres. They had a powerful mid section and rowed through the Derby RC crew to win by 2/3 length. The race times tomorrow are C2- Semi final - 1.25pm, Final - 5.32pm and the D4+ Semi final - 8.28am, Final - 2.36pm. See draw here.
9th July 2004 Today sees the start of Henley Veteran Regatta with 3 Staines crews entered. The Vet C4+ are racing Bradford-on-Avon at 11.32am and the Vet D4+ are racing Derby at 12.24pm. There is also a Vet C2- racing but they now have a bye to the semi final tomorrow due to the withdrawal of Abingdon RC. Spectators wishing to support these crews will be made very welcome. See draw here.
9th July 2004 Adrian Fletcher advises that our Danish friends from Roklubben SAS will again be visiting the club for Staines Regatta and will probably arrive on the Thursday or Friday before the regatta weekend. They will stay at the club and camp on the lawn. Please make them very welcome.
8th July 2004 Following the letter from Paul Clayton published in the latest Regatta magazine regarding new veteran rowers, here is the link to his new website Veteran-Rowing.Org. It's aims are --- ' to help Veteran Rowers of all ages and abilities to organise their competitive rowing at regattas by putting them in touch with each other. It also provides much needed help for regatta secretaries who need to find quality opposition for visiting crews'.
8th July 2004 Several hundred photographs that were taken at last week's Henley Royal Regatta are now available from rowingphotos.com.
7th July 2004 Steve Ballantine writes ----- I have novices coming down this weekend but I am not sure how many just yet. Most have been out on the water a couple of times. They are down on Sunday at 10am but I'm away this weekend so I will need somebody to help out by running the outing. I think we are getting close to sitting the odd one into a senior boat. Please let me know if you can help.
7th July 2004 Robin Dunlop advises ----- A massive and I mean massive clear up of the boat house and club will be on its way very soon. ALL are expected to help over a period of a week whilst a skip is located in the car park. So if it don't breath, isn't attached to a boat, has no conceivable use whatsoever at the boat club and is not alcoholic, it WILL BE SKIPPED. Judge Dunlop will be overseeing and IS RUTHLESS in assessing any future use of ANY artifact - BEWARE! This includes inside and outside of clubhouse! You will be assigned a duty should you not volunteer!
7th July 2004 Duncan Speight writes from Australia to say that he has again updated the latest news on his and Jodi's web site. The news this time is of visiting the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and working in a hardware store!
6th July 2004 Rachel Quarrell's interesting New Rowing Information page informs us ----- BigBlade have an excellent sequence of pictures showing Harvard bowman Mike Harrington jumping out of his boat during the Crimson freshmen's quarterfinal race against Nereus at Henley. Perhaps this is a tactic we should look out for at Staines Regatta on the 24th July!
5th July 2004 Chris Pollard writes ----- I've attached a copy of the photo of the 1967 Isleworth winning eight. 2 - John Lee, 3 - Chris Pollard, 5 - Paul Skinner, 6 - G Doubleday. I t hink Phil Wigley is stroking the boat and you might be able to figure the rest from other photos.
3rd July 2004 I have posted some photos taken today at Henley Royal Regatta. See Photographs Page. Remenham Club also had a special guest raising money for charity. The start of Sir Parsley's adventures can be seen at www.therabbithouse.co.uk.
2nd July 2004 Chris Pollard emails regarding the Phil Wigley photo from 1965 (normally found on the Photographs Page ) ----- As an ex Strode's and Staines member I recognise two of the "Strodes" oarsmen. Stroke is G Doubleday and 2 is John Lee. I've tried to figure out the bow man - sort of looks like Richard Allinson but I'm not sure. (please note that 3 is Phil Wigley)
2nd July 2004 Dom Foley emails ----- Tyson is back with a vengeance. Large red beak and looking mighty peeved! He attacked another swam while the novice ladies were training on Thursday evening, holding it under water - trying to drown it I assume. Among the bank people was an old woman chasing it down on the footpath in floods of tears shouting at it. At one point she succeeded in smacking Tyson around the head with her wheeled shopping trolley. On the return trip all swans were accounted for. POWER TO THE COTTON HEADS!!!!!!!!!!!
2nd July 2004 Liz Bernard has submitted a few photos taken at Marlow Town Regatta on the 12th June. See Photographs Page.
2nd July 2004 Clare Wood writes regarding the Boat Club Building Project ------ "There will be an opportunity to view and comment on the building plans on Wednesday evening 7th July at the club house from 6.30pm for approx 1 hour. All members are welcome to attend to discuss the proposals"
1st July 2004 Robin Dunlop emails to say that he has one spare badge (£18) for Remenham Club on Saturday. Please contact him directly if you wish to secure it.
1st July 2004 Caroline Gill advises ----- Could I please remind everyone about the picnic at Henley on Sunday? All members as well as family and friends are invited to join us for a picnic - the plan is to meet up somewhere towards the start around the Barn Bar area and grab a spot on the lawn, sometime after midday. It's all fairly relaxed - the aim is to unwind and catch-up after several months hard training (in some cases) and excess drinking in Remenham on Saturday (that's the rest of us then!). At the moment the weather is looking less than promising so fingers crossed for some sunshine, otherwise bring an umbrella! Hope to see you all then, Caroline
1st July 2004 Claire Lovelady emails to say that her and Gayle Donnelly now have badges to Remenham Club this Henley Saturday and to send thanks to all those that kindly offered to take them as guests.
30th June 2004 Adam Gill telephones this report from today at Henley Royal Regatta ----- The Staines crew in the Thames Challenge Cup had a great race this morning against the seeded London 'A' crew. Against a strong headwind, Staines were only half a length down at the barrier and were still racing hard at Fawley where London had only pulled out a one length lead. At the finish the verdict was 3 3/4 lengths. The crew were proud of the way they performed in one of the fastest races of the morning and against such a high quality crew. London approached the Staines crew after the race in the boat tent and congratulated them on their row. This was a kind gesture and much appreciated by the Staines crew.
30th June 2004 Rob Oades sends this report from Egham Regatta last weekend ----- "The Egham Regatta saw the Staines Junior Squad out in force for a long days racing. Dressed in their new "On the Pull" T-shirts (thanks go to Bob and Smiffy for these) they were entered for nine events. The story was of "so near and yet so far" with four crews reaching finals and two reaching semi-finals, but with no pots returned. Still contesting four finals from nine events was still a great achievement against strong opposition. For the boys, Thomas Oades and Andrew Frost reached the J12 2x final. Rob Oades and Nick Pollen (in there first Regatta racing as a double) reached the final of the J14 2X. Russell Vinson reached the semi-final of the SIV 1x. On the girls side, Jenny Godlswain reached the final of the WJ12 1x and Jenny partnered by Emma Corless reached the WJ12 2x. Rebecca Corless and Rachel Edwards also reached the semi-final of the WJ14 2x. Ted and Smiffy were very pleased with these efforts and look forward to the next Regatta at Molesey. From a personal point of view this was my second Egham Regatta and the improvement I have seen in all members of the Junior Squad since last year has been fantastic, a credit to the coaches and Staines Boat Club."
30th June 2004 Staines and London 'A' raced this morning in the preliminary heats of the Thames Cup at Henley Royal Regatta. London 'A' won by 3 3/4 lengths. Times were Barrier - 2.00, Fawley - 3.22, Finish - 7.11 ----- Full results are available on the official website here.
30th June 2004 Duncan Speight emails from Australia and sends this photograph of his and Jodi's Henley celebrations!
29th June 2004 Helen Litvak has just released the latest press release in Word format for Staines Amateur Regatta 2004. New for this year is a revised finishing line position and the introduction of Junior J14-J18 and all Veteran categories.
28th June 2004 Claire Lovelady emails ----- Gayle Donnelly and I would love to go to Remenham Club this Henley Saturday and wonder if anyone has a couple of tickets going spare. We can be contacted on the above email addresses or my personal mobile number is 07776 168768.
28th June 2004 David Dimes writes regarding the weekend's racing ----- With the men's Henley squad focusing on qualifying , the "domestic " squad decided to spend the weekend getting some race practice ..... the novice crew of Tom Blackman (Sun), Dom South (Sat), Nick Hadwen and Dave Dimes coxed by Penny Grey were bolstered by our "ringer" Luc Wilson, whose points forced us to enter at S3. Saturday saw some competitive racing at Reading Town Regatta where 3-lane events were held on a stretch of river narrower than our own at Staines. Staines fell foul of this in their first round becoming the "meat in the sandwich" between Milton Keynes and Salford Uni. The clashing was enough for the umpire to award a re-row where the Staines crew were edged out by Salford. Sunday saw more good racing at Egham with the Staines s3 4+ enjoying a morning start and the best of the weather! In the semis Staines gained clear water over Weybridge at the start and were able to hold the lead through to the finish. In the final Staines managed another flier off the start against a strong Walbrook crew. However, the experience and technique of the Walbrook crew showed as they came back strongly over the second half of the course, Staines narrowly edging them out by a "bow ball" as one spectator described it. Congratulations to the whole crew, for most their maiden qualifying win.
Nick Hadwen adds ----- Well we did it ! At last we have our Novice point -gained at S34+ Hurrah. After a tremendous start where we hammered them to gain a length we hung against them coming back through to win by a bow ball!
Terry Moore also emails ------ They've done it! That's Dave Dimes, Tom Blackman and Nick Hadwen stroked by Luc Wilson - they have WON their Novice pots, but not at novice; they set a target of S3. After beating Weybridge in the Semi all looked set for a show down with Walbrook. They had a good start and with good steering they had over a length by half way, Walbrook were not going to take it laying down and put a push in and gained on every stroke. Luc was already at 38spm and took it up to a massive 39spm and held on. With a Penny aiming straight for the line there was nothing in it as they crossed the line. A nervous wait then took place with a good call from the finish tent for Staines Verdict "A bow ball" in a time of 2.02. Well done to Penny and the boys. Full results will be available shortly from the Egham Regatta website and the Reading Town website. See Photographs Page.
28th June 2004 Bigblade has some photographs of the Staines crews taken during last Friday's qualifying races at Henley Royal Regatta. See Thames Cup 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 and Wyfold 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 . Also see Nature's Images who have the following shots, Thames Cup 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 and Wyfold 1 - 2 - 3 - 4.
27th June 2004 The timetable of racing for the Wednesday (30th June) of Henley Royal Regatta has now been published and shows that in Race 21, London R.C. 'A' will race Staines B.C. in the Thames Challenge Cup at 11.00 am. Staines will have the Bucks side of the river.
27th June 2004 Egham Regatta took place today in at first sunny then rainy conditions. Liz Bernard reports on behalf of Sir William Perkins's School ----- SWPS entered 5 crews in Egham Regatta today, three crews getting through to the finals. Emma Townshend, Heather Stevenson, Rachel Lovibond, Ingrid Barnsley and coxed by Charlotte Jackson won their first heat in WJ13 4x+, but lost in the semi-final. Vikki Wardle in the WJ 14 1x won two heats and the semi-final, but lost in the final. Charlotte Jackson in WJ 13 1x won her first heat and the semi-final but lost in the final to Tideway Scullers. Ingrid Barnsley and Charlotte Jackson got through to the semi-finals of WJ13 2x, and Bethan Roberts and Emma Townshend also competing in the WJ13 2x won the event. Full results will be available shortly from the Egham Regatta website.
26th June 2004 The draw for the preliminary heats of Henley Royal Regatta took place today. It shows the Staines eight competing in the Thames Challenge Cup having drawn London 'A' for their first race on Wednesday. The timetable of racing will follow in due course. Full details on the official website here.
26th June 2004 Duncan Speight writes from Australia to say that he has again updated the latest news on his and Jodi's web site. The news this time is of sailing the high seas, watching shooting stars, hunting platypus and 'Dunk Island'!
25th June 2004 The results of today's qualifying races for Henley Royal Regatta show that the Staines eight qualified to race in the Thames Challenge Cup but the Staines four unfortunately failed to qualify for the Wyfold Challenge Cup. Full details on the official website here.
25th June 2004 Our two Staines crews are racing this afternoon to qualify for a place in the preliminary heats of Henley Royal Regatta. The Wyfold crew race at 5.05 pm and the Thames crew at 7.30 pm. Full details on the official website here.
24th June 2004 The draw for Henley Veteran Regatta has now been published here. Staines are entering 2 crews who will be racing their first heats on Friday 9th July. The Vet C4+ are racing Bradford-on-Avon at 11.32am and the Vet D4+ are racing Derby at 12.24pm. The semi finals and finals for these events take place on Saturday 10th July. Spectators wishing to support these crews would be made very welcome.
24th June 2004 The draw for Egham Regatta which takes place this Sunday 27th June has now been published. Staines have several crews racing in this regatta which always produces some exciting action.
23rd June 2004 Jules Palmer emails ----- I am hoping to have a double bedroom & living room to rent out in a house in Staines (<10min walk from station) from sometime towards the end of August (fingers crossed!). If you're looking for somewhere to live or know someone who is, please drop me a mail to julie.palmer@bms.com. Thanks! Jules
23rd June 2004 Photos are now available for last weekend's Marlow Amateur Regatta from Chris Parry, the appointed official photographer.
23rd June 2004 Bigblade now has some photographs of the racing at Henley Women's Regatta ----- See (Intermediate eight) 11 - 12 - 13 - 14 - 15 - 16 - 17 - 18 - 19 - and (Lwt coxless pair) - 20 - 21 - 22 - 23.
23rd June 2004 Captain of Boats, Steve Tassell writes ----- I’m currently carrying out a review of current boat usage levels and in doing so trying to work out the bottlenecks and draw up a plan of what the priority is for buying boats and equipment. Given we have just bought a pair it’s possible the decision will be either an eight or a four, we may also be able to stretch to another set of sweep oar blades. There’s lots of permutations in terms of buying nearly new as opposed to new to make our money go further. We also need to look at sponsorship/fundraising as this will clearly accelerate our buying cycles. Please give this some thought to what your squads you represent preference would be and I’ll factor this in. I need to report back at the next committee meeting (beginning of July). Just to give you an idea, the senior men’s request is for an eight and so is the women’s, SWPS have requested a quad/four. To be clear I’m just trying to gather a consensus at the moment not deliver on any promises.
22nd June 2004 Murray Litvak writes again, this time regarding the Staines Regatta clear up and the Saturday night ----- The Regatta Committee need everyone's assistance on Saturday night to ensure the towpath and facilities are all cleared away promptly. As an added incentive the Bar at the club can't be opened until this little task is completed. So it is a question of "many hands make light work". Especially if you wish to drink Terry dry- we understand he has a number of bottles of "Bliss" and "Barcardi Breezers" that he wishes to get rid of first.
22nd June 2004 Murray Litvak writes regarding the use of the club launches during Staines Regatta day ----- The use of the coaching launch, inflatable and tin fish and their respective motors will be restricted to regatta usage on the big day. No boats will be used to ferry people to or from the club and if a boat is tied up - do not assume that it is unused and available for use. We have to impose this as we have limited resources and people to make the regatta run well.
22nd June 2004 Murray Litvak advises that Staines Amateur Regatta, which takes place on Saturday 24th July 2004, will be holding a raffle this year with the first prize being 25% of the raffle takings.
22nd June 2004 Dom Foley, coxswain to the ladies squad, would very much like to attend Remenham Club during Henley Royal Regatta. Would anyone be prepared to invite Dom as their guest? If so please let Dom know.
21st June 2004 Steve Tassell advises ----- I bumped into Mary-Anne Millar at Women’s Henley, don’t know if you remember but she used to row down the boat club. She is based at Upper Thames at the moment and has extended an invitation to any Staines members who wish to go to the Upper Thames summer ball on the Saturday of Men’s Henley. Tickets are £30, black tie is optional and if you are interested in going contact Mary-Anne on makmillar@hotmail.com or 07810 483425.
20th June 2004 Steve Tassell reports on Henley Women's Regatta ----- Staines had mixed fortunes at Women’s Henley this year entering two crews an eight and lightweight pair. First the eight. In recent years the regatta has come under stiff criticism that despite it’s growth to three days the general standard of rowing has not been akin to what you would expect from such a prestigious event. The organising committee took a bold but necessary decision this year by amalgamating the ‘Club’ and ‘University’ events for eights and fours effectively reducing the number of middle order crews rowing at Henley. The result was 57 crews going for 32 places with no crews automatically pre-qualifying. Unlike men’s Henley the first round effectively runs as a processional race with the fastest 32 crews racing the next round later the same day. For those regular readers of the news section you will know that we started the year with a big intake of novices, from this squad we picked an eight. Given the qualification criteria for Intermediate Eights is a maximum of 20 points you can get anything from novice through to senior 2 racing in this event. The plan with the novices this year was to go along for the experience and hopefully provide people a sense of the big occasion and maybe enough of an incentive to come back next year! In order to qualify a novice crew in such an event it was going to need the row of their lives and that’s exactly what we got. Going through the start platforms the crew looked calm and composed belying the 9 months of rowing most have done. Staines set off fast and attacking clocking 43 as they crossed the line. Under Dom Foley’s expert eye the crew settled to their race rhythm at a steady 37 and there they stayed right through to the end clocking 5:03 on the way some 20 seconds faster than anything they’d done in practice. Whether they had qualified for the next round or not this had been the row we hoped we see and then some! Then the agonising wait. As with men’s Henley the results are read out in alphabetical order, however, the wait proved fruitful with Staines qualifying. Win or lose in the next round we’d achieved our objective of qualifying for the event proper beating on the way such names as Vesta, Imperial College, Kings College, Southampton Uni all crews that on paper had more boat speed and race experience but bizarrely on the day it seems not good enough to even qualify. And so to the second round race against Nottingham BC. Staines rowed with passion and determination to close on a 3 length verdict, a fine row given the performance to qualify two hours previous. I think all Staines members can be proud of what the novice squad have achieved for the club already this season we now have a core squad that will serve Staines BC very well for many years to come I hope. Given that a majority of the squad have come from Pubs and Clubs last year I’ll be watching with interest for this years new intake! Now for the pair. The lightweight pair did not fair so well, in almost an exact replay of last years row in lwt coxless fours the pair were unfortunate to find themselves clashing with Auriol Kensington whilst rowing past the island. Getting off the start in a pair at Henley has got to be one of the hardest courses to steer and it is only a small consolation for Alison Rolt who steered that I think she was very courageous to even take this on particularly as she has only been rowing a year herself. They showed -to possibly the event favourites- that they can match their start speed so we remain hopeful for the Nationals in a month’s time. For the novice squad now the main objective set at the start of the season was to win novice pots an achievement that will be the icing on what has been a very successful first season for everyone involved. It just remains for me to say a big ‘thank you!’ to all those who have supported the girls this far, you are all very understanding people!
20th June 2004 Liz Bernard reports from yesterday's Marlow Regatta ----- SWPS entered 2 quads in the WJ14 4x+ at Marlow International Regatta held on Saturday 19th June. Both crews rowed well in rough conditions over the 2000m course. The quad consisting of Nell Bond, Vikki Wardle, Sarah-Jane Gregory, Rachel Martin and coxed by Daisy Corfield gained 2nd place, being beaten by Maidenhead. The other quad consisting of Emma Townshend, Sarah Daley, Lucie Bishop, Bianca Stewart and coxed by Tommi Breslin, came in 6th. Full results will be available shortly here. Photos will be available from the 23rd June from Chris Parry, the appointed official photographer.
19th June 2004 Adam Gill has released the poster for this year's Staines Amateur Regatta which takes place on Saturday 24th July 2004.
19th June 2004 The 17th Henley Women's Regatta started yesterday with Staines competing in the Intermediate Eights event. The results show the Staines crew losing to Nottingham 'A' by 3 lengths in a time of 5 mins 27 secs. Today the results show the Staines lightweight 2- losing to Auriol Kensington by an undisclosed distance and time. Full results are available on the official website. Also Bigblade has some photographs of the qualifying races. See 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 - 10
18th June 2004 The Entries List has now been published for Henley Royal Regatta. Staines have entered 2 events, a coxless four in the Wyfold Challenge Cup and an eight in the the Thames Challenge Cup. Qualifying races will take place on Friday, 25th June 2004 with the regatta draw taking place the next day.
17th June 2004 All members are reminded that yesterday saw the start of the freshwater fishing season and with the current good weather, many anglers will be keen to make their first catch. Please do your best to avoid any antagonism by keeping out from the banks and if caught up in lines, stop the boat and disentangle if possible.
17th June 2004 Nature's Images have a couple of photographs available from last weekend's Vet Nat Champs. See pic1 & pic2.
16th June 2004 The draw for the prestigious Marlow Regatta which takes place this coming Saturday 19th June at Dorney Lake has now been published. Staines are entering 4 crews, a S2 8+ (10.30am), a S3 4+ (9.15am), an E 2- (9.00am) and a Junior 2x (7.00pm). SWPS are racing two WJ14 4x+ (4.30pm). Full draw available here.
15th June 2004 Guy Pedliham has submitted 5 more photos taken at Weybridge Ladies Regatta and 5 of his previous images have been correctly relocated to the Walton Regatta photos page. See Photographs Page.
14th June 2004 Robin Dunlop sends this report for the men's squad from the weekend's racing at the Reading Amateur Regattas -----
Sat
The mens squad pitched up on mass at Reading with entries in S28+, S38+, S24+, S44+, N4+ on both days. A frustrating day was had by pretty much all the men on the Saturday producing rather tentative rows. The senior 8's Henley campaign continued with a frustrating start, catching our 7 man Fikret's blade under a buoy 2 strokes off the start, the rest of the race was gutsy but not enough to beat Pangbourne school, who went on to the final. The S3's/Novices showed some excellent commitment and blade work in their races gaining good experience.
Sun
This was an altogether better day. The S38+ doubled up in the S28+ as well so SBC had an A and B crew entry for the S28+ (unheard of from SBC!!). Stroked by Terry Moore they produced a fine row and came off the water buzzing having been beaten by only a length in the S2 event. They had a good S3 race as well but lacked a little fitness in the end straight, something for them to focus on and remember when in the gym in Jan/Feb!!! Julian's S24+ had an altogether better row losing out to Reading Uni. But look well placed for the Henley qualifiers - fingers crossed. The senior 8 doubled up in S1 and S2 events. They had a huge start - finally nailing what they had been practicing all week, inching away from Sons of the Thames in the S1 race to become eventual winners of this event. In the S2 event they met the boys from Kent College USA, they were of the XXL breed but again a huge start from SBC put us in contention all the way down the course. Kent put a push in at 750 SBC responded but it wasn't quite enough, in the final 500m Kent increased their lead to a verdict of 1length 3.18 time (dist 1100m). So we picked up a medal in S1 eights surely placing us in the minds of the Henley stewards for pre-qualification status. Ever improving performances by this eight kept up the momentum for the next week before HRR - thanks go to Michael Owen who stepped into Sixpk's seat at the last minute. Full results will be available on the Regatta website shortly.
14th June 2004 I am delighted to report that the Vet D4+ won silver medals yesterday at the ARA National Veteran Championships at Holme Pierrepont in Nottingham. The four comprised of Bow-Paul Goldswain, 2-Paul Hopkins, 3-John Lusty, Stroke-Graham Carey and Coxswain-Tom Goldswain. The crew suffered some disruption leading up to and during the event with the short notice withdrawal of their normal coxswain, Murray Litvak, due to family commitments and a partially working coxbox depriving them of rating readings. Tom kindly stepped into the cox's seat despite his 'senior oarsmen' status and physique! In the semi final and fastest heat of the day, the Staines crew led from the start, beating the best of the rest of the field, Nottingham & Union, in the 6 lane race by 2 seconds. In the final, Staines took a commanding lead off the start, rating at 42 and had a 1/2 length lead by the 250 metre mark. They increased their lead to 3/4 length by 500 metres and maintained it at 750 metres still rating at 39. Staines fast rating and pace started to take its toll at 900 metres with pressure coming from Nottingham & Union and the giants rowing for Tideway Scullers. The Staines four fought to the last against the best crews in the country and finished only 0.67 seconds behind the talented Tideway Scullers crew in a photo finish. This result represents a just reward for the Vet D4+ for all the hard work they have put into their training over the preceding months. Full results will be available from a link on the Loughborough BC website or the ARA website shortly. Also see Photographs Page.
13th June 2004 Liz Bernard of Sir William Perkins's School reports from Marlow Town Regatta ----- Four members of SWPS rowing squad attended Marlow Town Regatta on Saturday 12th June. Bethan Roberts and Charlotte Jackson put up a good fight in their first ever race together, WJ13 2x,being beaten by Tideway Scullers. Sarah-Jane Gregory and Vikki Wardle got through two heats in the WJ14 2x, only to be beaten in the final by a short distance by Tideway Scullers. Both Sarah-Jane and Vikki won their singles heat, WJ14 1x, and met each other in the final. Both sculled a superb race,with Vikki gaining her first win in a single scull. Full results will be available on the official website shortly.
12th June 2004 Steve Tassell sends this report from Reading Amateur Regatta ----- Staines Ladies continued their good form from the Walton/Weybridge weekend with a hard fought heat win in Senior 3 eights at Reading today. The crew consisted of Dom Foley (cox), Sarah Tassell, Katy Burke, Suzanne Reng, Julia Reichel, Helen Williams, Jane Hudson, Anna Behrendt and Bonny Howes. They had a bye to the quarter-final where they raced Kingston RC. They didn’t have the best of starts trailing Kingston by a length after only 300m, however the girls then settled into their race rhythm and stroke by stroke rowed back through to win by ½ length. In the semi-final they raced Thames and although the outcome of a 3L loss perhaps was not so surprising, the intelligent and gutsy row was great to see and a great result considering they were racing two leagues above their status. The girls have now decamped to Henley RC as their next race will be at Women’s Henley this Friday at 10am in the first round of Intermediate Eights. We also have Alison Rolt and Jenny Page competing in LWT 2- on the Saturday at 16:14. On behalf of the rest of the club I would like to wish both crews the best of luck this weekend and good racing! Full results will be available on the Regatta website in the next couple of days.
12th June 2004 Guy Pedliham has kindly sent in some excellent rowing shots he took at Weybridge Ladies Regatta last Sunday. The images can also be found at the bottom of Page 2 on the respective photo page. See Photographs Page.
11th June 2004 Rob Oades emails ----- we forgot to mention that Jenny Goldswain and Emma Corless of the Staines Junior Squad won the WJ12 2x at the Weybridge Ladies Regatta last Sunday.
11th June 2004 You may have noticed that the hedge bordering Riverside Drive has been trimmed. This is down to the generosity of Graham Standbrook who has kindly spent his spare time exercising his shears!
11th June 2004 Liz Bernard has just submitted these 3 photos ( 1 - 2 - 3 ) of Bethan Roberts and Emma Townshend from Sir William Perkins's School who won the J13 doubles at Weybridge Ladies Regatta last Sunday. The images can also be found at the bottom of Page 2 on the respective photo page. See Photographs Page.
11th June 2004 Sir William Perkins's School have several crews entered in Marlow Town Regatta which takes place tomorrow 12th June. The full draw is available here.
10th June 2004 I am pleased to report that this website is currently listed 4th on Google and 1st on MSN if you search for the word 'Staines'. Have a try yourself with your favourite search engine.
10th June 2004 Rachel Quarrell's New Rowing Information page reports that the Rabbit's Guide to Henley Royal Regatta (UK) has been updated for 2004.
10th June 2004 Duncan Speight writes from Australia to say that he has again updated the latest news on his and Jodi's web site. The news this time is, and I quote "Just found out that my sister Christy is pregnant (and there was me thinking they didn't do things like that... Stuart we need words when I get back!) and Sarah and John are now engaged!" Also there is news of Rodney the new van and the undersea world of Jacques (Dunc) Cousteau!
10th June 2004 Steve Ballantine advises that the green 'Jerry cans' are now being used for the fuel for the coaching/safety launch. These cans will always have mixed fuel in them and on no account must anyone who is filling them leave them filled with unmixed fuel which would have a disasterous effect on the engine. The correct fuel mix is 50:1 which means that 20cc of two stroke oil is required in each litre of petrol, a mix which is clearly marked on the outside of the cans. Will all users please make sure that they understand the system before using the launch and speak to Steve if there is anything that needs clarifying.
9th June 2004 Craig Twaddle writes ----- Weybridge RC are having a Pre-Henley Ball on Sat 26th June and it's been a good night out in previous years. It includes an excellent buffet, live band, and fireworks over the river. For any Staines members who might be interested, further details can be found here.
9th June 2004 Social secretary, Caroline Gill has added a few dates for your diaries to the Social Calendar Page.
8th June 2004 Steve Tassell emails regarding Henley Women's Regatta that will take place on the 18th,19th and 20th June 2004 ----- The crew lists are out and order of racing for lwt 2- is (first named crew on Berkshire Station):
Saturday-
Race 215 16:06 Lwt 2- The Parkside Trophy 260 Bucknell Univ (USA) 261 Furnivall - Next Race 341
Race 216 16:10 Lwt 2- The Parkside Trophy 262 Nottingham Univ 263 Dublin Univ Ladies (Ire) - Next Race 341
Race 217 16:14 Lwt 2- The Parkside Trophy 264 Staines 265 Auriol Kensington - Next Race 342
Sunday-
Race 341 13:50 Lwt 2- The Parkside Trophy Winner of Race 215 Winner of Race 216 - Next Race 386
Race 342 13:55 Lwt 2- The Parkside Trophy Winner of Race 217 266 Grosvenor - Next Race 386
Race 386 16:45 Lwt 2- The Parkside Trophy Winner of Race 341 Winner
of Race - Next Race 342 Final
In the Intermediate eights the first round will be raced as a processional
race to draw up the entry list of 32 crews. This will be raced at 10am on
the Friday. Should we qualify for the event proper then the next round will
start from 13:15
The full draw should be available shortly on the official
website.
8th June 2004 All committee members are reminded that June's committee meeting takes place tonight at 8.30pm after its postponement from last Tuesday.
7th June 2004 Jules Reichel submits this photo and this photo of her winning crew at Weybridge Ladies Regatta which Steve Tassell has subsequently described as 'Yeah they look like something off a Queen album!'
7th June 2004 Adam Gill advises ----- The draw for Reading Amateur Regatta is now online here. We've got entries for both Saturday and Sunday, from both the men's and women's squads.
7th June 2004 The National Veterans Championships takes place next Sunday 13th June 2004 at Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham. Staines are entering their Vet D four. The draw has now been published and can be found on the Loughborough Boat Club website.
6th June 2004 Weybridge Ladies Regatta took place today in warm and mostly sunny conditions. Liz Bernard reports that Sir William Perkins's School had a great day and some good heat wins including the J14 quad losing one of their races by 2 feet! Winners medals went the very stylish pair of Bethan Roberts and Emma Townshend in the J13 doubles event. Roger Pailes advises that there was also a win for the Staines Novice four that he coxed comprising of Bow - Claire Sellick, 2 - Ali lake, 3 - Sally Biggs and Stroke - Claire Lovelady. Roger also coxed the WS4 eight that was disqualified in their race against Thames RC for bad steering!!! Steve Tassell adds --- The four comprising of Julia Reichel, Suzanne Reng, Jane Hudson, Sarah Tassell and Dom Foley continued it’s winning ways, racing in S4 4+ due to winning their novice pot at Walton on Saturday. They beat Guildford Rowing Club in the first round by 2 1/2L, Eton Excelsior by 2 3/4L and Thames in the final by 2 1/2L. Also racing was a novice four comprising of Katy Burke, Lucy Duncombe, Bonny Howes, Jacky Hawkins and Dom Foley which narrowly missed out in a 1/2L verdict to Staines ‘C’ who then went on to win the event in confident fashion. The ‘A’ and ‘B’ fours came together to race in WS48 against Thames who proved to strong on the day but still only lost by 1 3/4L in a spirited row. It’s been a great weekends racing for the novice women’s squad with some really excellent wins across the board, very well done to everyone with special thanks to Dom Foley for doing an outstanding job coxing both days. The junior section also had a fine day with Jenny Goldswain and Emma Corless of the Staines Junior Squad winning the WJ12 2x. Full results will be available shortly on the regatta website. Also see Photographs Page.
6th June 2004 Walton Regatta took place yesterday with some fine racing by Staines crews. A win for the WNov4+ (Staines A) after beating Eton Excelsior in the first heat, Staines (C) in the second heat and Quintin in the final by 2 1/2 lengths. Also winning were the WS3 eight (Staines B) who beat Staines A in a straight final by 3 lengths. In the Nov 1x event, young Russel Vinson had a great win by beating Craig Twaddle in the first heat then beating Beckett (Tideway Scullers School) in the final by 1 length. This was an exceptional race as Russel was 2 lengths down at one stage and won the race in the last 250 metres. Finally the Vet C 4+ (Vet D 4+ with Ian Mchugh subbing for John Lusty hence rowing VetC) beat Reading in their final by 1 3/4 lengths. Full results are available here. Also see Photographs Page.
6th June 2004 Congratulations to Liz Lake who celebrated her 28th birthday yesterday, Paul Hopkins who is 47 today and to Ted Dyos who became 72 years old last Friday but still looks 60 !
4th June 2004 RowTV have produced videos of both Metropolitan and Monmouth (Sunday) Regattas. See the clips at the RowTV website.
4th June 2004 Staines and Sir William Perkins's School each have several entries in Weybridge Ladies Regatta which takes place on Sunday. See the official Regatta Page for details.
3rd June 2004 Jackie Hawkins (via Steve Tassell) submits the details of the Weybridge Rowing Course in Word format.
3rd June 2004 Chris Foote (Spike), website curator for Walton Regatta writes ----- The 'dummy' page for the results for Saturday's Walton Amateur Regatta is now available here. We intend to post results on this page, as well as a Java 'news ticker' on all of the pages on our site. We have improved our 'technology' a bit since last year and hope to be able to reduce the delay in posting results to a minimum. Best regards! Spike
2nd June 2004 Steve Tassell emails to say that he has just heard from Jackie Hawkins regarding sculling courses, who says ----- Alternatively Steve, for those who cannot take a week from work, there is a course run at Weybridge which Hazel and I are applying for. It is run on a Monday and Wednesday evening. See the Weybridge RC website. Both theory and practical sessions including basic coxing.
2nd June 2004 Steve Tassell advises ----- I've heard great things about the sculling courses run at Imperial. Attached are the details from Richard Wearne if you fancy getting started on the right foot. Check thought it's not clashing with any regattas! :) the ones later in August might be better. ----- The courses are open to everyone and are run over 5 days from approximately 9 - 4.30pm each day. The dates are as follows: July 19 - 23, July 26 - 30, August 9 - 13, August 16 - 20. There will be typically two rowing sessions each day before lunch and then a lecture in the afternoon on topics such as stretching, weights, rigging, nutrition and recovery. These lectures are conducted by experts in their field such as Jacqueline Boorman (GB Rowing Team nutritionist), Keith Morgan (National weight-lifting coach), Chris Shambrook (GB Rowing psychologist) & Bill Mason (GB Olympic Rowing Team Coach). The coaching will be provided by names such as Simon Dennis, Luka Grubor, Bill Mason and Nick Wilde who will use video analysis on a number of the rowing sessions during the week. There is the option of staying at the boathouse in the residence above or making one's own way to the boathouse each day. Residential placements are £349 and non-residential placements are £195. Contact Richard Wearne, Boathouse Manager, Imperial College, , +44 208 788 3763 or +44 773 4879 281.
Jo-Anne Simms responds ----- I did this course last year and thought it was great. If anyone wants any further information about it just let me know?
1st June 2004 Robin Dunlop writes ----- On behalf of the Captain and Vice Captain, tonight's committee meeting is cancelled and rescheduled for next Tuesday 8th June at 8.30pm on the understanding that we have accummulated the necessary reports in order to formulate an agenda and thus have a meeting. Will all officers please present your reports by the deadline of TOMORROW 12 NOON, these will be posted in the clubhouse and emailed for your comments.
1st June 2004 It is now confirmed that only 3 cygnets managed to hatch from the 7 eggs that were laid by the pair of mute swans nesting in the corner of the club grounds. However the family look healthy and can be seen often on the river in the immediate vicinity of the club. See Photographs Page.
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