Staines Boat Club's Latest News
Archive 1/08/04-31/10/04
31st October 2004 Found in the quad Alison Bond this afternoon, one pair of sunglasses with blue lenses. They are currently on the boat club bar awaiting collection from the owner.
31st October 2004 Which Staines member is it exactly writing to the Forum at Dreadnought, the Putney Town unofficial website, in the nom de plume 'Da Staines Massive'. Please identify yourself forthwith.
31st October 2004 With the forthcoming Fours Heads approaching, all coxswains may like to, and probably should, consider attending the seminar 'Coxing and steering' given by Stan Collingwood and Rachel Quarrell on Wednesday 3rd November. It has been organised by the Thames Regional Rowing Council in their 'Autumn Seminar Series'. It will be held at Putney Town Rowing Club, (near Chiswick Bridge) - Kew Meadows Path, Kew, London TW9 4EN and will run from 7.30 p.m. to approximately 9 p.m. There will be an admission charge of £2 (£4 for non ARA members).
29th October 2004 A quick note from your new social secretaries, Dom South & Bonny Howes: This year we have two aims and would ask that you support the club in both of these areas wherever possible: - to make the boat club an even more fun and sociable club to be part of. - To raise money for the boat club from social events and through the boat club bar. We'd like to see more people at the club on weekday and weekend nights and we'll do our best this year to give you an incentive to make this happen. SO WATCH THIS SPACE!!!!! However, if you have ideas, comments or suggestions for social events please let us know. Also, if you want to advertise your own activity to the rest of the club, mail us on this link and we'll add it to the calendar. See the Social Calendar Page.
27th October 2004 Congratulations from all at SBC for the following announcement ----- Julian & Karen Blackman are very happy to announce that they are expecting their first baby, due on the 19th April 2005! Everyone be warned, this is what happens when you take a break from rowing in the summer!!
27th October 2004 The ARA website has the following information about the British Coaching Conference 2005 which may be of interest to Staines coaches.
27th October 2004 The draw for the Head of the River Fours has been published here. Staines are entering the folllowing crews -- 397 SBC I S3+C, 163 SBC II S2-, 542 SBC III WS3+C, 547 SBC IV WS3+C, 419 SBC V S3+C, 30 SBC VI 4-. The race takes place on Saturday 6th November 2004 at 10.00am.
26th October 2004 There are still lots of details and photographs missing from the Contact Us page. Will all persons who have TBA against their names please send me their contact numbers, photograph and email address ASAP. Perhaps our new Membership Secretary, Craig Twaddle can contact them and give them a reminder please.
26th October 2004 Just in -- this disturbing group shot from Thailand of ex Captain, Duncan Speight with his new found best friends and what a nice bunch of chaps they are too!
25th October 2004 Following the AGM yesterday, there have been a number of changes to posts on the committee. Would all those who have undertaken tasks please advise me as soon as possible of your telephone numbers and email details for the Contact Us page.
24th October 2004 Jo Hawkes writes ----- I have finally counted the remainder of the kit for clubs tokens and between us all we have collected 1639. This is enough (by my calculation) to get us some exercise mats (making a pleasant change from having to lie the boat club floor to stretch after outings). I have placed an order for three, two full length and one half length, these should be with us in the next month. Thanks to all those who have contributed to the collection over the last 12 months. Jo
22nd October 2004 Peter Smith writes ----- The work on Mike Pattinson was completed last night, not only did the 3 seat compartment have a hole but the bow & 2 areas as well. We have come to the conclusion this is due to members throwing water bottles into the boat. Could we get the following noted on the website. "Please take care when putting water containers into boats, basically, "lay down bottles into the boat"
22nd October 2004 Ian Grant emails ----- Can I ask all members who are using the single sculls racked outside, to make sure that they are securely tied down as I arrived yesterday at 5pm to find the DE boat in the process of falling off on to the boats below.
22nd October 2004 A last reminder that the 2004 SBC Annual General Meeting will take place this Sunday 24th October at 12.00 noon. All members are requested to attend as important decisions will be made concerning the club's future.
22nd October 2004 The ARA website has details of the GB Senior and Under 23 Trials, of which the 1st Assessment takes place tomorrow, Saturday 23 October 2004 at Boston RC. For those of you considering rowing for GB, the forthcoming 2nd Assessment requires submission of 2k ergo scores with target times as follows. -- Men 6.10 (Lwt 6.35) Women 7.15 (Lwt 7.30).
21st October 2004 With many new members joining in the last couple of months, this is a timely reminder for everyone to read our Safety Page. If you have not read it recently then please reread it to keep yourself up to date.
21st October 2004 Terry Moore sends this link regarding available courses in the sport section of the Slough Borough Council website for all coaches and potential coaches that are interested in extending their knowledge.
20th October 2004 Tonight from 7.30 -9.00pm there is a lecture at Putney Town RC entitled 'Olympic related psychology and implications for coaching' by Dr Chris Shambrook (About the speaker: Dr Chris Shambrook has provided consultancy services to Olympic and Professional Sports Performers at the Olympic Games & World Championship venues, as well as at international and national training venues. A large proportion of this work has been associated with the GB Rowing Squad, and Chris has also worked within Premiership Football, Professional Cricket, Golf and many other sports. This experience has provided Chris with an in depth insight into the varied psychological challenges which sports performers have to face on a day to day basis. This new presentation will cover how international athletes use psychology in their training and how all athletes can follow their example.) Cost: £2 for ARA members (card required), £4 for others.
20th October 2004 After a long period missing, the comprehensive Leo Blockley Memorial Campaign website is back up and running. Leo drowned while rowing four years ago and since then his parents have been campaigning for inherent bouyancy to be built in to boats.
19th October 2004 Rachel Quarrell's New Rowing Information page reports on an interesting survey which should be read by everyone who intends to continue rowing as a sport, young and old. ----- Results of the FISA Masters Survey 2003 are out (Powerpoint presentation).
19th October 2004 Ian Grant sends this report regarding the mens squad at Weybridge Silver Sculls ----- There were 9 boats entered from the senior men and all up against some tough competition. Robin D and Stuart S went off in a S3 double, but word of their entry must have got out as they didn't have any opposition. In the singles, many people found the course tricky to steer, Stuart S and Mark A-W finished 6th (15:50) and 8th (16:06) out of 10 in the S3 category, In the S4 group, Robin D, Helge N and Paul S finished 19th (16:03), 24th (16:53), and 25th (18:06), with Robin suffering a small collision with a returning single on the other side of the river. In the Novice category, Ian G and Fikret O (in his first every race in a single) finished 8th (15:37) and 25th (17:19). Finally Phil A-W, in the Vet E group finished 3rd in a time of 18:07. Some good racing experiences had by all in the first head race of the season and I would just like to say better luck next time to Stuart and Robin, I hear they're a bit annoyed.
18th October 2004 Liz Bernard sends this report for SWPS at Weybridge Silver Sculls ----- Sir William Perkins's entered 6 crews; all of whom made a tremendous effort, but I think some crews hadn't realized just how far they had to row! However, we had some very competitive performances for our first Head Race of the season. Ingrid and Heather were 8/13 in the WJ14 2x, with Bethan and Emma coming 2nd in the same event, in a time of 17:10. They were certainly the star performers of the doubles, beating the times of x6 WJ15 crews and x3 WJ16 crews! Emily and Lucie in the WJ15 2x were 7/9. Charlotte was our only WJ14 single, who gave a very spirited row in her first head race in a scull, coming 6/7. Sarah-Jane and Rachel both entered the WJ15 1x event and unfortunately clashed with each other twice on the way down the course. Sarah-Jane was placed 7/13, in a time of 19:11, and Rachel 2nd, in a time of 18:32. This time was faster than all the WJ16's and faster than 2 of the 3 WJ singles. A great performance. We are now looking forward to racing at Pangbourne Junior Sculls in November.
18th October 2004 Photo Row has photographs for sale of last Saturday's Weybridge Silver Sculls.
18th October 2004 Robin Dunlop emails ----- With the fours head coming up and interest in steering and coxing from rowers and coxes alike maybe this will provide some insight to new and experienced coxes/steers.
18th October 2004 Rob Oades reports ----- The Junior Squad acquitted themselves well at this weekends Weybridge Silver Sculls. All crews were very competitive against strong opposition. Charlotte Morrison competing at J15 1x was the only single sculler competing for the Juniors, coming 5th out of 13 in a time of 18:49. All other crews were double sculls. Rachel Edwards and Rebecca Corless came 3rd out of 5 in a time of 17:18 in the WJ16 2x. Jenny Goldswain and Emma Corless did very well also coming 3rd in their WJ 14 2x category (out of 13) in a time of 17:33. In the men's racing, James Kell and Russell Vinson came 7th out of 7 in the difficult Junior Maiden Category in a time of 16:04. Rob Oades and Nick Pollen came 5th out of 23 in the large J15 2x field. Their time was 15:29. But the result of the day goes too Tom Oades and Andrew Frost who came 2nd out of 7, rowing a year up in the J13 2x event. Their time was a very good 18:43 considering it was their first long distance event. Well done to all crews and thanks to Ted, Smiffy, Roy, Jeremy and many parents for their support on the day.
18th October 2004 Suzanne Reng writes ----- To help raise money for the club, Bonny suggested producing a calendar for 2005. I am obviously keen to know your thoughts before I set the wheels in motion on this one. I've found a printer who would charge very little to actually produce the calendar so we've got nothing to lose. My initial thoughts are that we that we produce 3 different versions as follows;
1. Men/women + Vets - for this we could use some of the images that Winterthur have already taken, and images from BigBlade from some of the races this year such as Henley. Another photographer (Guy) has also offered to take some new shots at Staines. Basically the girls would choose 6 images and the men would choose 6 images.
2. Juniors - same as above using either existing photos or ones from BigBlade. Could also ask Guy to take some of the Juniors.
3. SWP - same as for juniors
So, is there enough interest from the men's squad/women's squad/juniors/SWP's? Would you buy it? Is there a volunteer from the men's squad, juniors and SWP to co-ordinate photographs - that's all that would be required. Costs would be £5 per calendar and could make ideal gifts for family and friends. The Calendar would be A3 and have a hook to hang on the wall. The other suggestion is that we do a naked rowing calendar - obviously tasteful - but consider who you would give this to as a present other than yourselves! The light mornings are over so this would mean being photographed naked after 7.00am. Putney did this last year apparently. Timescales are as follows; All images required by w/c 8th November - deadline 14th November, Calendar to print w/c15th November, Available to purchase w/c 22nd November. Please email me with your thoughts suzanne.reng@ntlworld.com or put yourself forward to co-ordinate images. I'm happy to co-ordinate the Women's photos.
17th October 2004 Another car for sale! This time the prestigeous Fiat Panda owned by Graham Carey. Only 54000 miles, taxed until Jan 2005, MOT March 2005, exhaust blowing but works OK. Quick sale required so £100 only. 01932 563637
17th October 2004 Ian Harris would like it to be known that the white and blue Aylings Olympian sculling boat on the rack by the club lawn is now owned by him. If anyone who has used it in the past and wishes to use it again, please ask Ian first.
17th October 2004 The results of yesterday's Weybridge Silver Sculls that took place yesterday have now been published.
17th October 2004 Ted Dyos advises that the fee for winter training sessions at Magna Carta School for juniors and students is £1.00 and not 50p as previously reported. The adult fee will remain at £2.00.
16th October 2004 Rob Oades writes ----- I have just found this link to photos taken at the Junior officials training day which our Juniors attended at Dorney lake in September.
15th October 2004 Will all members please note that SWPS will be rowing each day next week, from 9.30am - 3.30pm. They will be using all quads, doubles and singles so please ensure that these boats are available for them between these times.
15th October 2004 Liz Bernard is selling her car so if you are looking for one then give her a call. Details are ----- Mazda 323 1.5i GXi 5dr, R reg. s/roof, p/s, e/w, full service history, MOT and Tax 10months, one careful lady driver, £2,500 ono. Tel. Liz on 07956 464 135 See pic 1 and pic 2.
15th October 2004 Jodi Davis writes from Thailand to say that she has again updated the latest news on her and Duncan's web site. The news this time is of the Really Wicked Witch and a marmite sandwich!
15th October 2004 Peter Blake, British Airways Rowing Section member now living in France, is selling two of his apartments near Lac Aiguebelette, Savoie, opposite the rowing club. Peter has put an advertisement in the latest Regatta magazine but you can also see the details on his website here.
15th October 2004 Our Secretary, Murray Litvak reminds us that the 2004 Annual General Meeting will take place on Sunday 24th October at 12.00 noon. Will all members please try to attend as important decisions will be made concerning the club's future.
14th October 2004 For those interested in world rowing news, try the website row2k.com where you will find a large collection of articles, images and links etc.
13th October 2004 Robin Dunlop advises that he has now fitted a digital lock to the back door of the clubhouse. If anyone requires access to the clubhouse and needs the code numbers then please contact Robin for details (see Contact Us page). To use the lock firstly press C to clear the locking mechanism. Secondly, enter the correct code. Lastly turn the handle CLOCKWISE to open the door. Please note that there is normally no requirement for a key to operate the lock lower down the door. Robin stresses that anyone can now be the last person to leave the club and no longer does it have to be a keyholder. This means that whoever is last leaving must lock the car park gates as well. Again speak to Robin or an existing keyholder for details.
13th October 2004 Will all crews who are intending to row at night please ensure that the club LED lights used on their boats are fitted with NEW batteries and are labelled with a date to confirm it. Although the batteries last for a long time (approx 100 hours) the club lights appear to have the same batteries as fitted when they were bought last year and have started to dim noticeably, especially compared to a unit with new batteries. The small size of the lamp units require full brightness in order to be seen effectively at a distance. A sculler out last evening was seen to have a bright rear light but a much dimmer and inadequate front light.
13th October 2004 Rachel Quarrell's New Information Page reports that the Marlow Fours and Pairs Head that was due to take place this Sunday 17th October has been cancelled due to lack of entries.
12th October 2004 Robin Dunlop emails ----- Please congratulate Ian Grant who came 2nd in the Novice Sculls division last weekend at Reading SBH. Ian was racing in Brunel University colours but we'll forgive him!!
11th October 2004 Ian Grant and Craig Twaddle both email with news that the draw for Weybridge Silver Sculls that takes place next Saturday 16th October has been published here. There are several entries from both Staines and Sir William Perkins's School. The race is in four divisions starting at 10.30am, 12.00 noon, 2.00pm and 3.30pm respectively and spectators and supporters are most welcome.
11th October 2004 Rob Oades emails ----- Attached are best photo's from the Junior Squad. First one is 2004 competing Juniors with pots and medals won (55 in total). Coach's Ted, Pete, Jeremy and Roy also got in on the act. Second photo includes all the new Juniors who hopefully will help us continue the success in 2005. Finally there are two photo's (3 & 4)of Bob Slade presenting Rob Oades and Charlotte Morrison with gifts in recognition of their particular successful season's (nine wins in ARA Regatta's each). I will be organising probably a 10"x 8" photo of the full 2004 squad for purchase - details to follow.
11th October 2004 Judith Packer writes ----- Just to inform you that Weybridge will be hosting another Instructor's Award Course starting at the end of the month. Although we have increased the cost, we have taken on board some of the feedback from the first course and hopefully any attendees will benefit from this. Please find attached the application form. Anyone interested from Staines, please could they in the first instance email me their details or completed form to secretary@weybridge.rowing.org.uk as soon as possible. Closing date 20th October 2004.
11th October 2004 The Tideway Slug reports that there are 2 rowing events happening at Henley shortly. Firstly on Sunday 17th October there will be a celebration of the Olympic medallists and Leander squad complete with a row past on the Henley reach and an open top bus tour of the town. The second event is a lecture at the River and Rowing Museum by Jurgen Grobler on Sunday 14th November. Entitled "Four men in a gold medal boat".
9th October 2004 Dom South took a dip this morning from his sculling boat. Rather than pick an uninhabited section of the river, Dom decided to practice his 'eskimo roll' adjacent to the club in full view of everyone. When asked for a comment, Dom said that the water was cold at first but that he soon acclimatised to it!
9th October 2004 Reports from last evening's Junior Squad disco say that it was a great success. Paul Goldswain, who admits to being a little old for the event, commented that there was a really good atmosphere despite being interrupted for a short time by a gang of local youths who thought they could gain entry uninvited.
7th October 2004 Crews thinking of practising for the Fours Head should take note of this notice reported on the Thames Regional Rowing Council website ----- Tideway Bridges -- Rowers on the Tideway should look at this notice from the PLA concerning an underwater survey of railway bridges. Keep your eyes open, there may be divers out there!
6th October 2004 The Fours Head is looming (10.00 am Saturday 6th November) with entries closing on the 23rd October or when 550 crews have been accepted. All Staines crews are reminded to get their entries in as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Entries this year can be made by the ARA's newly formed online entry system so please contact our Regatta Secretary, Adam Gill, in the first instance. See the official website here.
6th October 2004 Jodi Davis writes from Thailand to say that she has again updated the latest news on her and Duncan's web site. The news this time is of sea eagles, planning a trip to Nepal and climbing with Dirty Mick!
5th October 2004 Dreadnought, the unofficial Putney Town website, has added the following to their home page --- Which is the Fittest Rowing Club? thanks to the internet you can see those other crews up close, nominate we'll run a poll and let the masses decide! --- First on their list is Staines BC although they have it as Staines RC but I am sure they will change it shortly. Please vote as soon as the poll is up and running to ensure we stay on top.
5th October 2004 The results from Saturday's Wallingford Long Distance Sculls have now been published. Staines sculler, Phil Ansley-Watson finished 348th overall and came 5th of 5 in the Vet E 1x category in a time of 19 mins 46 secs. See full results here. Also see the Bigblade photos of Phil here.
4th October 2004 Rob Oades emails ----- Just a reminder that the Junior Squad Disco takes place this Friday 8th October at the club from 8-11pm. Everyone invited. Please come and join us to celebrate our successful 2004 season. Cost £2.00 to cover cost of disco. Tickets available from Rebecca Corless. Also a gentle reminder to the Juniors that the Squad Photo is still planned for Sunday 10th October at the club at 10am. Please bring all pots / medals won this season. Also please wear Staines racing kit.
4th October 2004 All members are reminded that Circuit Training starts today and will continue every Monday and Wednesday at 6.45pm in the Magna Carta School gym (see map) - All Squads and beginners are very welcome. Please ensure that you bring cash with you - (only £2.00 or students 50p). See Training Page for Christmas break and ergo/weights timetable.
4th October 2004 Robin Dunlop writes ----- Coxes, a website dedicated to you! ---- www.coxie.com - checkout this site for tips and inspiration or pass on your experience and stories, alternatively advertise for more coxes at SBC like I did!
4th October 2004 Some useful advice on training whilst ill can be found on the Inside Triathlon website. The link is courtesy of 'rowdoc' on the newsgroup rec.sport.rowing.
3rd October 2004 For those of you that were wondering just what those two old men were doing behind the boathouse yesterday with rubber gloves on, then here is the answer. They were none other that Vet oarsman John Lusty and novice coach, Roy Dauncey who decided to unblock the sewerage system of the club after last week's wedding reception clogged it.
2nd October 2004 Steve Tassell has submitted 3 photos taken at the recent Women's Dinner at Foxhills. See them on the Photographs Page.
2nd October 2004 Robin Dunlop writes ----- What happened to our "Sam" - see here (care of The Gorilla's Nest) - For those who do not remember Sammy Hammond, she was regular member of SBC, rowing, coxing and generally causing trouble, - looks like she still hasn't got a proper job !! Good luck Sam. I hear from the MBC mob you're off to 'Naaarwich', maybe if you wander down the local rowing club there you will recognise the captain, none other than SBC's 'Beat yourself to Death Master' Alex Fitzgerald!!!
1st October 2004 Following our extremely successful racing season, our President, Don Moore has released his annual report for 2004 (also in Word format here). It will remain available, as always, on the left hand menu of this page.
1st October 2004 Richard Packer has let the cat out of the bag by informing the Tideway Slug of our secret. Not only is news of Tyson, the vicious swan spreading around the world but now the Staines rabid bat story is the latest gossip in rowing circles. Read about it in the Telegraph Online and keep your heads down when on the water!
30th September 2004 All members are reminded that Circuit Training will commence next Monday 4th October at 6.45pm in the Magna Carta School gym (see map) - All Squads and beginners welcome.
29th September 2004 The World Rowing Championships 2006 will take place at Dorney Lake on 20th - 27th August 2006. Christopher Anton reports on rec.sport.rowing that the organisers have issued the rather impressive Bulletin 1 which is available as a download in PDF format.
29th September 2004 The draw for Wallingford Long Distance Sculls has now been published and shows only one Staines entry, namely Phil Ansley-Watson racing in the Vet E category with a start number of 206. The 4000 metre head takes place at midday on Saturday 2nd October 2004.
29th September 2004 For those of you that are monitoring the proposed restructuring of UK rowing, Christopher Anton writes in the newsgroup rec.sport.rowing regarding the current state of play of the ARA Competition review ----- The proposals for primary regattas were carried at yesterday's meeting without a vote. There will be a period (not sure how long) where their impact is assessed. Negotiations about the exact timing and nature of multi-lane national regattas continue with a decision likely in November. So if anyone wants to volunteer to run a primary regatta next year you now know what you need to put on. N.B. most regattas next year will operate exactly as they always have done, but there still will probably be some tinkering with the points system/regression etc happening in the next few years or so.
29th September 2004 All members that are rowing or considering rowing at night are reminded that they must show continuous white lights on their boats i.e. NOT flashing. Se our relevant safety page.
28th September 2004 Hayley Vrublevskis advises ----- Some members may like to take note in case a few of you still have ARA cards showing your previous club etc. If the club shown, isn't the one you are currently rowing for, you will need to let the ARA know about the change ASAP, as the new OARA on-line entry system, which is being used for all 4's head entries, will only show rowers named as being club members to that club's administrator. Luckily this is very easily done by firing off a quick e-mail to OARA@ara-rowing.org with subject: Club change, in which you should give your full name, ARA membership number and the new club you want to be listed under. While you're looking at your card, you should also check when it expires (first 6 digits of your membership no are YYYY/MM i.e. 200410 means it expires at the end of October 2004). The OARA system will also only allow entries from members who's racing licences will be valid on the date of the race, so you may need to renew well in advance Easily done, so make sure you're sorted or there'll be no-one to blame but yourselves.
27th September 2004 Rob Oades emails ----- Please remember that the Junior Photo will now take place on Sunday 10th October at 10am, postponed from 3rd October due to non availability of some squad members.
27th September 2004 Robin Dunlop writes ----- Could all members of this seasons Mens Squad (new & old) fill out www.squadbox.com. If your name does not appear in the list then email me asap. Make sure you update your personal details correctly and don't forget you can log your ergo scores etc here too. If you wish to be coached this season we need your Q&A's sheet completed and back asap. Thank you
27th September 2004 A set of frankly rather scary photos have just been made available by the German company Seaman Sport und Event Marketing. Amongst hundreds of others they depict the Staines crew that competed in the recent FISA World Masters Regatta in Hamburg. See the series of photos here.
27th September 2004 It seems that Tyson, the vicious swan has begun increasing his level of aggression in preparation for the forthcoming mating season. He is routinely raising his wings and swimming towards any rowing boat passing. There was a report last week of 3 incidents of him flying at a sculler but thankfully no contact was made. From previous experience, the severity of the attacks will increase and all members are asked to report any incidences as soon as possible to the club's Swan Incident Coordinating Officer. Please email him at sico@stainesboatclub.co.uk Tyson is currently inhabiting the part of the river adjacent to the church just downstream from the club.
26th September 2004 Robin Dunlop reports that after the wedding reception at the club this weekend, the ladies loos are now blocked and should not be used until further notice.
26th September 2004 Rob Oades reports ----- Some of the Junior Squad went down to the Wraysbury Skiff & Punting Club Regatta on Saturday 25th September with the aim of working on their assignments from the previous week's Junior Officials Course. Emma Parks, Rachel Edwards, Nick Pollen, James Kell, Thomas and Robert Oades became involved in all aspects of helping run the Regatta - stake-boats, marshalling, start umpire and finish tent. It was great experience for them. But it didn't finish there. They all entered the Junior racing at the end of the Regatta - dinghy racing, Canadian Canoeing and Dongola racing. The dingy racing was fun with all involved realising too late that you cannot scull a dinghy. We had slightly more success with James Kell and his partner just losing the final of the Canadian double canoeing by 1 foot. Tom Oades was asked to cox a skiff for the Bennett Family of WSPC in the Family double handicap sculls 2x. They did very well with Tom coxing them to the final were they narrowly lost. A budding Ted Dyos dare I suggest. The day finished with the boys being involved in all the four crews of the dongola racing event. The final was won by the crew led home by Rob Oades - his 10th pot/medal of the season. A great day, enjoyed by all.
24th September 2004 Terry Moore advises ----- Can I please remind you ALL that the club has a private wedding on this weekend. There is a 80' tent on the lawn. The clubhouse will be closed from 10.30am Saturday until Sunday. The club MUST be clean, tidy and empty by 11.30 no later. Thanks for your understanding.
24th September 2004 Rob Oades emails ----- Junior photo day CANCELLED this weekend - will now take place Sunday 3rd October at 10am. Sorry for change - due to unforseen circumstances. Hope all can make 3rd October. Also Junior Disco set for club Friday 8th October - all Juniors Plus SWPS and parents invited. More details to follow
24th September 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 leaving Perth and making friends with bear cats, rats and leeches!
23rd September 2004 The Thames Regional Rowing Council has now updated their website to include details of the Autumn Seminar Series ----- The following seminars have been organised by the Thames Regional Rowing Council. They are aimed at club athletes and coaches and cover a variety of topics from nutrition to coxing, sculling technique to psychology. The Council has been able to secure some world class speakers to address these issues. The seminars will take place on Wednesday evenings on the following dates:
Wednesday 29 September - Sculling - Peter Cookson
Wednesday 6 October - Nutrition - Helen Cowie
Wednesday 20 October - Psychology - Dr Chris Shambrook
Wednesday 3 November - Coxing and steering - Stan Collingwood and Rachel Quarrell
Wednesday 17 November - Physiology - Craig Williams from the English Institute of Sport
Wednesday 1 December - Rigging - Rosie Mayglothling
Seminars will be held at Putney Town Rowing Club, (near Chiswick Bridge) - Kew Meadows Path, Kew, London TW9 4EN (map), and will run from 7.30 p.m. to approximately 9 p.m. There will be an admission charge of £2 (£4 for non ARA members).
23rd September 2004 Members are reminded that renewals for their ARA subscriptions can now be done online. See the ARA website for details.
22nd September 2004 Jo Hawkes emails ----- Following on from my previous notice about Club Blazers I have been doing a bit more research into both tailors. Basically both have advantages and disadvantages. The clothier mentioned in my previous message cannot make in wool/mixed fibre as this is a striped and not plain fabric, they will line with polyester style fabric, they will also need a minimum order of 16 blazers to produce in the cream fabric. They will only come down and measure if there is a number of orders (ie. won't come down for 2) This wasn't clear beforehand! The other tailor Collier & Robertson are a bit more expensive, minimium £175.50 for a Standard blazer, they are at present updating their prices I am hoping to get a copy of these sent to me. They on the other hand don't need a minimum order to produce cream blazers or come along and measure up, they are also satin lined. If you are interested could you let me know by October 10th at the latest.
22nd September 2004 This is a reminder to all Pubs and Clubs competitors who wish to continue rowing and all newcomers who wish to start rowing for the first time that you are invited to either of two meetings at the boat club this week. The times are tonight (Wednesday) at 6.30pm or next Sunday 26th at 12.00 noon.
21st September 2004 Ali Lake emails ----- I left off a MAJOR thank you in my Boston Marathon/Oscar speech yesterday.... Hayley Vrublevskis our Cox!! Hayley's sterling efforts pushed us on during the last 10KM when we all thought we could go no further. Her brilliant leadership skills ensured we were on the water on time and kept good time... Thank you Hayley from all your Boston Crew!
21st September 2004 The provisional start list for the 2004 Rowers' Revenge Triathlon that takes place on Sunday 3rd October 2004 in Marlow has now been published. Hayley Vrublevskis will be competing for Staines in the F30 category. Her bib number is 50.
20th September 2004 This is a reminder to all juniors that there will be a Junior Squad photo call this coming Sunday, 26th September at 10.00am prompt. All junior members are asked to come in Staines racing kit and with all pots and/or medals that they have won this year. Please label up pots etc. so they do not get mixed up.
20th September 2004 Ali Lake reports ----- The Boston Marathon took place this Sunday and we had 2 entries; Phil Ansley-Watson in a Scull and the infamous Octuple. The Octuple managed to pull themselves 31miles / 50KM from Lincoln to Boston in 4 hrs and 20 minutes and Phil managed a heroic 4hrs and 38 minutes. The Octuple as many of you know was collecting money for two very good causes, The Macmillan Trust and Staines Boat Club. We managed to raise a total of £1,500, that means £750 for SBC and £750 for Macmillan. We would like to thank everyone who sponsored us and let you know that now is the time to hand over that money!! Please pass on your sponsorship to anyone of the Boston Girls. Our Acknowledgements sounds like an Oscar speech but is very necessary! We would like to add a few very special thanks to all the people who made the Boston Marathon Possible. They are, in no particular order, Jackie Hawkins (who raised an impressive £121.00 at the Pubs & Clubs Regatta by handing round the Boston Marathon Bucket!), Steve Ballantine, Sarah Sweeney and the SWPS team for the use of their equipment, BA for the use of their equipment, Chris Plastow and all the various subs we borrowed through the training period. We would also like to extend extra special thanks to Mike Piper who organised the mini bus, ferried us around on the day and offered his support along the course, Bob Slade who invested much of his time in coaching us, our 'Super Subs' Gayle and Sally who drove all the way to Boston to support us and finally Eugene Broderick of Blaze Construction who loaned us the minibus, installed a tow bar and paid for the petrol - a huge thank you to him. See the official results.
20th September 2004 Rob Oades advises ----- Several of our Juniors (and one slightly older one) attended the Junior Rowing Officials Training Day, held by the ARA at Dorney Lake on 19th September. Our attendees were Rob Oades (Jnr & Snr.), Nick Pollen, James Kell, Charlotte Morrison, Emma Parks, Rachel Edwards, Emma Corless and Jenny Goldswain. The aim of the Junior Officials Programme, of which this training day was part, is to select Juniors for stake boat duty at the 2005 Rowing World Cup and the 2006 World Rowing Championships - both to be held at Dorney Lake. The course was led by John Hedger, FISA Umpire and Deputy Chairman of the Organising Committee for the 2005 World Cup and 2006 World Championships. About 50 Juniors took part mainly from the Dorney Rowing Club, Eton Excelsior, Weybridge and of course Staines Boat Club. The morning was spent learning the skills of umpiring and running a regatta: Boat Safety Checks, Control Commission & Interface with Marshalling Registration, Race Control, Marshalling and Radio Communication, The Start, Aligning, Boat Positioning on Start Pontoons Umpires, Flag Drill and Start Procedure. The afternoon these new skills were put to the test in a mock regatta - were the competitors were supplied by Weybridge Rowing Club and Tiffin School (plus one or two GB National Squad Members who decided to help out). Great fun was had by all. At one point Staines Juniors seemed to be controlling everything and even managed to start a race ! Potential candidates now have the Winter to complete 4 assignments before selection in March 2005. It was a fun but informative day - Staines Regatta has some budding new officials.
20th September 2004 Chris Brett emails ----- would like to request that whoever 'borrowed' the straps tying Steven Brett's single scull to the trailer from Swindon to return them. They have THULE written along the length. I would also like to point out that the insurance on Steven's boat does not cover damage sustained when not tied down, given the windy conditions it is not inconceivable that the boat could have come off the trailer.
20th September 2004 This is a reminder to all Pubs and Clubs competitors who wish to continue rowing and all newcomers who wish to start rowing for the first time that you are invited to either of two meetings at the boat club this week. The times are Wednesday 22nd September at 6.30pm or Sunday 26th at 12.00 noon.
20th September 2004 The Tidway Slug reports that The Thames Regional Rowing Council is sponsoring a series of Coaching Seminars this autumn at Putney Town RC starting on the 29th September. See the event poster here (Word doc).
20th September 2004 Staines entered a women's Octuple in yesterday's Boston Marathon. A report from the crew is awaited but the official results show them coming 89th in a time of 4 hrs 20 mins and 22 secs.
19th September 2004 Liz Bernard and Rob Oades report from yesterday's Splash and Dash Regatta ----- Staines Juniors, SWPS, Men's Vet crew, parents and families had a great day out at Swindon Splash and Dash Regatta held at Coate Water Country Park, Swindon. Despite the very windy conditions in the morning, and then a downpour, all crews put up a very good performance. Six gold medals were won by the Staines Juniors in great style to bring the seasons victory total to 38. The first victory of the day came in the J15 1x with Rob Oades an easy winner. This was soon followed by Emma Corless and Jenny Goldswain in the WJ13 2x. A third straight victory was denied by a canvas as Rebecca Corless and Steve Brett came second in the Mixed Junior 2x. However, this was soon followed by victory in the WJ15 2x by Charlotte Morrison and Emma Parkes, beating the two SWPS crews in the process. The J12 1x final saw all three Staines crews, Tom Oades, Andrew Frost and Michael Lusty, through to the final. Victory went to Tom Oades, his first single sculls victory. Andrew Frost did not have long to wait for a gold medal as he then teamed up with Emma Corless to win the Mixed J13 2x. James Kell came a close second in his J14 1x final. The final victory of the day, came in the final race of the Regatta when the "Love Boat" of Rob Oades and Rachel Edwards won the Mixed J16 2x, again in an all Staines final against Charlotte Morrison and James Kell and Nick Pollen and Emma Parks. All the mixed crews did fantastically well, having only had one practise outing each. We must not forget the brave performance of Jeremy Pollen and his son Nick in the Fam 2x event. They reached the semi-final, but Nick could no longer pull his dad along. The St John's Ambulance staff were not needed for Jeremy thank goodness. Thanks again to all Mum's and Dad's for their support and to the coach's Peter Smith, Ted Dyos and Jeremy Pollen. Thanks also to SWPS parents for help with the boats and with towing. The Juniors had the honour today of rowing with the Veterans Squad. Three victories were gained here. The Vet D coxed four started things off with a victory followed by Carol Goldswain in the Womens Vet Novice 1x. Carol then teamed up with a rather surprised Sarah Sweeney to win the Womens Vet Novice 2x. The victory went to Staines despite Sarah having to borrow a Molesey all in one !! All in all a fantastic days racing. Thanks goodness for a rest - but oh no - not the heads !!!!!!! Rob Oades (a very tired parent). Liz adds ---- The SWPS crews had some good heat wins and some very near misses in the finals, but the gold medal winners of the day were the WJ14 4x+. The crew consisted of Emma Townshend, Bethan Roberts, Charlotte Jackson, Ingrid Barnsley and coxed by Heather Stevenson. The Vet Junior Mxd Quad rowed extremely well especially considering that the very first stroke they had ever taken together as a crew, was the one off the start!! Sara Sweeney and Carol Goldswain won gold in the WVET NV 2x, despite taking the scenic route on the way down the course! An excellent day's racing and well done to all the crews. The full results will be available shortly on the official website. Also see Photographs Page.
17th September 2004 Jo Hawkes emails ----- Back in the summer, more to the point at Henley on the Saturday (before a substantial amount of alcohol was consumed!!!!) a couple of the us in the womens squad had a discussion about club blazers and how nice it would be to have one for next year - (just think one less thing to worry about what to ware and they don't have to match your outfit particularly, I know there will be someone else wearing the same as you, but at least you know that in advance!) Now to the serous stuff, I have approached two tailors and have swatches of the fabrics and prices from them. I have decided to go with a company in Cambridge A. E. Clothier, they have supplied competitive prices and more fabric options as follows: Polyester £125.00, Polyester/wool mix £145.00, Wool/ mixed fibres £150.00, All wool £160.00. I am lead to believe that there will be an additional £10 for the club badge on the breast pocket. The gentleman I have spoken to has said that they will be more than happy to come along to the club to measure people up, either a Saturday or one evening. If you are interested could you let me know by emailing me on the following address jo.hawkes@boltblue.com I have swatches of fabric so if you want to have a look and get an idea let me know. Jo
17th September 2004 Jo Hawkes advises ----- Kingsmill Kit for Clubs has now reached the end, therefore you will no longer be able to get packs with Tokens on! BUT we have up until December this year to redeem the tokens against items of our choice (provided they are still available). Can I therefore ask you to have a look, check with relatives to see if you or they have any lying around at home and bring them down to the club to put in the collection box. At last count we have just under 1500 tokens. I would like to have the final count done by the end of September so please get hunting. Thanks for all you participation in this and I am sure we will find some items that will help the club. Jo
16th September 2004 Regatta Secretary, Adam Gill's employer SFW, have a short write up on the two crews they entered for the Pubs & Clubs Regatta that took place last Sunday. See the SFW website here.
16th September 2004 Ali Lake writes ----- Boston Marathon calling Phil Ansley-Watson! The Octuple was loaded onto the trailer last night and we have a start time of 12.15pm. Can you please contact Ali with regards to putting your boat on the trailer - 0771 329 2358. Thank you.
16th September 2004 There has been some important information about the ARA Competition Review submitted on the rowing newsgroup (rec.sport.rowing) and repeated on Rachel Quarrell's website. This will affect all who row and run regattas so please take time to read and act upon the information if you see fit. Please note that the ARA Divisional representative for the Thames region (Staines & Molesey) is Richard Stanhope, 38 Ormond Crescent, Hampton, Middx TW12 2TJ. T: 0870 1644 790
15th September 2004 Robin Dunlop advises on some important dates----- Mens Squad meeting 10am Saturday 25th September - all mens squad to attend, new members welcome. Pubs & Clubs' members and absolute beginners - please come along on Wednesday 22nd September 6.30pm or Sunday 26th at 12.00 noon. Circuit Training will commence Monday 4th October at 6.45pm in the Magna Carta School gym (see map) - All Squads and beginners welcome.
14th September 2004 Terry Moore emails ----- On the 25/9/04 (that's a Saturday) the club is holding a wedding so the club will be closed to ALL Members (unless you are helping out - please feel free to offer terrymoore59@yahoo.co.uk) from 10.00am until Sunday. Many thanks for your patience, in advance. If you have any queries please ask.
14th September 2004 Staines Boat Club has a mention in "Club Hopping" which you will find about 10 or so headings down the list on the Tideway Slug, the organ of Twickenham RC. Unfortunately, our Junior and Vet sections seem to have been omitted despite their ever increasing success.
14th September 2004 This is a reminder for all members and friends that have not sponsored any of the girls rowing the 31 miles of the Boston Marathon which takes place this Sunday 19th September 2004 ----- The money raised will be split between the Boathouse and also Macmillan Cancer Trust. There is a sponsor form up in the boat club (by boat booking forms) and all participants have their own individual forms. Please give generously. The Boston Crew are: Leanne, Ali, Liz, Clare W, Elaine, Anne, Michelle, Clare L, Hayley.)
13th September 2004 Roy Frost has taken 4 photographs at yesterday's Cambridge Autumn Regatta and has uploaded them to the Ofoto website for all to see. If you have any photos you wish to add to this website then please have a word with Roy who I am sure will tell you just how easy it is. Have a look at Roy's photos here.
13th September 2004 Caroline Gill emails ----- Just a quick note to thank everyone who took part in the Pubs & Clubs Regatta yesterday, and in particular all the members who helped out to make the day run so smoothly. Thanks to Jules, Anna, Katy, Tom and Jackie (& others including those who made delicious cakes) for the refreshments, Claire, Roland, 6pk and helpers on the BBQ, Terry & Cath on the bar, Craig and Dom for keeping adults and kids amused on the bouncy castle & ergo challenge, Pete for excellent commentary throughout the day and all those who helped on the start, landing stage and finish including Bob, Mark, Luke, Michelle, Ali, Liz, Robin, Di & Robin, Max, Leanne, and all the Steves. Also thanks to Graham for being the only one who could actually start the launch on numerous occasions and to Adam who did the draw for me when my attempt failed miserably! Huge apologies to anyone I have not mentioned - please be assured that all contributions were extremely gratefully received!!! Caroline
13th September 2004 The draw for the Splash and Dash Regatta that takes place next Saturday 18th September at Coate Water Park has now been published with several Staines crews competing. Please see the official website.
13th September 2004 Rob Oades advises ----- I noticed the Go Faster with Foster DVD mentioned on the web-site. If any club member wishes to view this DVD, the people who completed the IA course in May this year were all given copies - I'm sure they would lend them to interested parties.
13th September 2004 Craig Twaddle writes ----- I'm sure everyone at the club will join me in sending congratulations and best wishes for the future to newly-weds Mark and Siu Cashen who tied the knot in Weybridge this morning.
13th September 2004 Clare Wood emails ----- The Vet Squad weight session is starting in its usual slot of Tuesday evening from 14th September. Please ensure the club house is free from 7:00pm.
13th September 2004 Jules Reichel writes ----- As you are all aware Steve is holding a womens squad meeting tonight. To kick start the winter season in style we are having our FIRST PASTA DINNER of the season afterwards. Dont worry about signing in today, however as from next week there will be regular pasta dinners again once a week. Please from next week on please sign in over this link, We currently have 3 volunteers for the cooking so one more would just be GREAT to be able to establish a regular roster again. See you all tonight, Jules
13th September 2004 Rob Oades reports from yesterday's Cambridge Autumn Regatta ----- Yesterday saw the excellent form shown by the Junior Squad at Evesham last weekend, continue at the Cambridge Autumn Regatta. Six finals were contested with 3 pots won (unusual all glass tankards). Rob Oades (J15 1x) gained the first victory of the day, bringing the total Junior wins for the season to 30. This was the target set by the Squad at the beginning of the season and is a fantastic achievement. More pots were gained by Charlotte Morrison in the WJ15 1x and by Jenny Goldswain and Emma Corless in the J13 2x. Total for the season so far therefore is 32. It could, with a little luck, have been six out of six. Rachel Edwards and Rebecca Corless lost the J15 2x final by a canvas and Thomas Oades was level in his J12 1x final when a loose slider brought an end to his chances. The unluckiest pair were Rob Oades and Nick Pollen in the J15 2x final. They were leading by half a length and pulling away when the race had to be stopped because of a cruiser ignoring all calls not to enter the racing course. The re-run saw Rob and Nick piped to the post by the Tideway Scullers pair by half a length. Many thanks again to all parents for fantastic support and to Peter Smith, Ted Dyos and Jeremy Pollen for their hard work during the day. Roll on the Splash and Dash Regatta next week. Full results will be available in due course from the official website.
13th September 2004 A email here from an unknown source regarding an Adam Gill problem ---- Adam asks can someone urgently help him? I have rather embarrassingly got blu tack on one of my suits and can’t get it out. Could anyone suggest what will remove this pronto? Answers on a postcard to Adam Gill
13th September 2004 The ARA have now available for puchase the Go-race packages on British rowing technique. Their website says ----- British rowing technique was first published across three issues of Regatta in 2003 and is the basis behind a new range of resources which are part of the Amateur Rowing Association’s Go-race initiative. The Go-race range includes an athlete handbook with tips on not just British rowing technique but how to achieve it, through training, nutrition, health and psychology, and a range of skill and rigging information with planners to fill in. To accompany the handbook is a DVD, Go Faster with Foster, where with footage from the world and Olympic rowing events there is advice from former GB athlete and Sydney Olympic gold medallist Tim Foster. There are sections with 2004 Olympic gold medallists in the coxless four Ed Coode and Matthew Pinsent, their coach Jurgen Grobler and 2004 Olympic silver medallists in the women’s quad Debbie Flood and Frances Houghton. The DVD covers much more than just the athletes’ perspective, and as with the handbook has information on nutrition, coxing, coaching and physiology.
12th September 2004 The 2004 Pubs and Clubs Regatta took place today in the presence of Di Ellis CBE, Chairman of the Amateur Rowing Association (see pic). Thanks go to the organisers Caroline Gill, Steve Ballantine and to all the Staines members who helped to make this a fantastic day. Surely the best one ever! All competitors and friends are reminded that, if you wish to continue rowing, you should come to the boat club on Wednesday 22nd September at 6.30pm or Sunday 26th at 12.00 noon when the Staines Boat Club team will look after you.. See Photographs Page for pics and results.
12th September 2004 Adrian Tollett has submitted some belated photos taken at Henley Royal, Henley Vets and Ross Veteran & Junior Regattas. They have been added to the bottom of their respective pages. See Photographs Page.
10th September 2004 Adrian Tollett writes ----- The e-mail extract below, just received, looks suspiciously like a challenge to Staines to form a Veteran Oxbridge Four to race such crews from other clubs next year on the Cam. I don't know if we have enough "Oxbridge ex-cons" for a Vet IV, but it may be worth advertising in the usual way ? Who knows where this may end ! I suspect this project may also command more interest within SBC than Billygoats versus Crabs, Boars and the like. David emails -- It may interest you to know that a group of Oxbridge ex-cons (all members of the Worcester Club) had a jolly in Oxford earlier this year.....row, lunch and the rest and it is possible we would be visiting the Cam next year. Are there other clubs I wonder who might join in and offer some opposition?
10th September 2004 Rob Oades has submitted some photos taken at last weekend's Evesham Regattas. See Photographs Page.
10th September 2004 Our Secretary, Murray Litvak advises that the 2004 Annual General Meeting will take place on Sunday 24th October at 12.00 noon. Will all members please try to attend as important decisions will be made concerning the club's future.
9th September 2004 Caroline Gill advises ----- Hi, Just a quick reminder of the details for the Pubs & Clubs regatta on Sunday. All crews must be at the boat club by 9am and racing will start promptly at 9.30am. Volunteers helping run the day are asked to arrive by 8.30am. There will not be space for everyone to park at the club so only those bringing equipment for use on the day will be able to park there, everyone else should use one of the public carparks in town - NOT the residential streets near the club. We hope that lots of you will come along to support the crews - there will refreshments and a BBQ, as well as a bouncy castle and an ergo challenge, plus some club boats racing in the breaks. There is also a pre-race party with a disco on Saturday night from 7.30pm, to which everyone is invited - hope to see you then! If you have any questions please call me as I will not be on email until next week now (I'm in the Rome at the moment!!). thanks Caroline
9th September 2004 Tom Blackman writes ----- Whilst Mark S was doing some gardening work trimming all the overgrown bushes by the single scull rack on the lawn we found two wasps nests, just a warning to people who are using these singles to be careful not to step on these as one is on the floor the river end and one up by the boat house end.
9th September 2004 Luc wilson emails ----- Many thanks to Ian Grant, Richard, Adrain and Charlie Mills (new juniors) for cutting the grass and preparing the club for Pubs and Clubs next weekend. Regards Luc
9th September 2004 Robin Dunlop writes ----- I have constructed a Log Book (you'll know what I mean when you see it) for the Coaching Launch. Its easy. If you drive the launch for any length of time 30 secs to all day, you should fill out this little log book. It will be attached to the launch key and it will have a pen & pencil on it (no excuses). Basically you note inside 'Time Out', 'Time In', 'Squad used for' eg. junior SBC, SWP, Men, Women, 'Patrol 4 P&C' whatever it is you put your name and you also put the fuel that was in the tank when you took it out, any fuel added and the fuel in the tank when you finished. Very easy, if thats all too much to remember I have filled out an example on the first sheet of the little book. Thank you to all launch users in advance - PLEASE DON'T FORGET. - Robin
9th September 2004 For those of you who want to improve your fitness fast or show off your present form then the 2004 Rowers' Revenge Triathlon will be for you. Organised by Marlow Rowing Club, the course consists of a 4000 metre row - on a ConceptII rowing machine, a 25km cycle - through the rolling Buckinghamshire countryside and a 7.5km run - along a mainly flat course. It will take place on Sunday 3rd October but the entries have to be in by Saturday 18th September as over 360 entries have already been received. See the official website.
8th September 2004 The Staines juniors will be out in force this weekend competing at Cambridge Autumn Regatta. The regatta takes place on Sunday 12th September on the 600 metre downstream course. The draw is available here.
8th September 2004 Duncan Speight and Jodi Davis write from Australia ----- Well we have booked our flights home - we land at Heathrow on 31st December at 8.45am. Don't worry, we don't expect you all to turn up there. So this is an invite to a New Year's eve party at (OK most of you know this place very well!) 7.30pm Staines Boat Club. OK, so its a bit of a welcome home party for us too - but would be great to see you all there. More the merrier so if we have missed people off, please pass the email on. Can't wait to see you all - Jodi & Dunc xx
7th September 2004 Bar Officer, Terry Moore advises ----- Calling all Pub and Clubs crews. A pre race drink is needed to lose all those nerves. So there is a party on Saturday night from 7.30 till midnight at the club (see Terry's poster). See you there.
7th September 2004 Steve Tassell writes ----- This Monday 13th September at 7pm down the club there will be a pre-winter training meeting for all existing rowers wishing to row in the women’s squad this season. If you can’t make it but want to row please let me know that you won’t to be there. We don’t just want the ‘6 dayers’ as before we can now cater for domestic rowers too. If you’re not sure if this is for you please read the ‘Myths about the Women’s Squad’ section here. The meeting will cover off the following points: - Squad Structure - Training program aims and goals - Race calendar -Nutrition - Roles and responsibilities within the squad - Fund raising/sponsorship. For anyone from Pubs and Clubs wishing to carry on rowing after the regatta please let me know and I will arrange a separate meeting with you. You are of course more than welcome to come along on Monday if you wish.
7th September 2004 Diane Gill emails ----- One of the members of a Prism Pubs and Clubs crew has injured his back whilst on holiday last week and can't take part in the race on Sunday. The crew are supposed to have one last training outing on Wednesday before the race on Sunday. Do you know a chap who raced last year (but didn't win) and who would be up for subbing in at the last minute? If you do, please email me on demy@orange.net or call me on 07974 774268. Thanks Diane
7th September 2004 Alison Rolt writes ----- Anyone interested in taking part in a 10,000 ergo on Saturday at the Riverbourne Health Club in Chertsey? It won't cost you anything & you will be part of a 10 person (girls & boys) team, each person only having to do 500m at a time. Start is approx 8.30am & it'll only take a few hours of your time (no more than normal on a Saturday morning!) Might be a good start to that winter ergo training you've been waiting for.................. Let me know asap if you're interested.
6th September 2004 All committee members are reminded that this month's committee meeting takes place tomorrow (Tuesday) at 8.30pm.
6th September 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 leaving Melbourne and losing the photos of the pole dancers!
6th September 2004 Our Captain, Steve Smith advises that there will be a Club Photograph taken next week. It will take place at lunchtime (around 1.00pm) on the 12th September (Pubs and Clubs Regatta day). Dress code is racing kit, and everyone brings all the pots and medals they've won this year. We would like to see all club members present for this occasion so please make a special effort to attend. Please don't forget to mark the bottom of your trophies so you don't get separated from your treasures.
5th September 2004 The Staines Veteran D Four returned from the World Masters Regatta in Hamburg this afternoon. Murray Litvak writes ----- The veteran boat beat a star studded field including ex Olympians and strokemen from both Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race crews but missed out on a gold medal by finishing second to the German crew from Bernburger Ruderclub by 1.8 seconds. The rest of the field included crews from the USA, France and Great Britain but the German and Staines crews were the only ones in contention. Rating 44 off the start, the Staines crew pulled back half a length from the Germans who had taken an early lead. At one point Staines were down by one foot and and with 250 metres to go it was a close duel between the two crews. With the rating never below 38 the crew of Paul Goldswain, Paul Hopkins, John Lusty, Graham Carey and coxswain, Murray Litvak fought hard to the end. So the record is Belgium 2000 a 4th place, Prague 2002 3rd and now Hamburg 2nd then Glasgow 2005, maybe - just maybe!!! Full results are available here. Also see Photographs Page.
5th September 2004 Rob Oades emails ----- What a glorious week-end of weather was enjoyed by the Junior Squad at the Evesham Regatta (4th September - 1000m course) and the following days Evesham Sprint Regatta (500m). The glories did not stop with the weather as the squad won eight pots over the two days.
Over the 1000m course on the Saturday 7 finals were contested resulting in five victories - Jenny Goldswain and Emma Corless in the WJ14 2x, Rob Oades in the J15 1x and Steve Brett in the J18 1x. These were followed by wins in the WJ15 1x by Charlotte Morrison and in the WJ16 2x by Rachel Edwards & Becky Corless.
Finals were also contested in the J14 1x by James Kell and Emma Parks and Charlotte Morrison in the J15 2x.
Could this fantastic success be repeated over the Sprint course on the Sunday? Not quite. Nine finals were reached, with 3 victories for Emma Parks in the WJ15 1x, Emma PArks and Charlotte Morrison in the WJ15 2x and Tom Oades and Andrew Frost in the J12 2x.
There could easily have been 3 more wins close defeats in the J15 2x Final (Rob Oades and James Kell - 3 foot), WY 14 2x Final (Jenny Goldswain and Emma Corless - 2 foot) and the WJ16 2x Final (Becky Corless & Rachel Edwards - 2 foot). Andrew Frost was also a losing finalist in the J12 1x and Russel Vinson in the S4 1x sculls.
So a great weekend of racing brings the seasons total victories for the Junior squad to 29. Many thanks to Ted Dyos, Peter Smith and Jeramy Pollen for there hard work over the weekend. Also thanks to all the Junior parents for their great support and help. We certainly were a noisy bunch on the riverside.
In recognition of Staines Boat Clubs Ted Dyos and Peter Smith's support for the Evesham Regatta over many, many (and in Ted's case many) years, both coaches were given Honorary Life Membership of Evesham Rowing Club. These were presented to Ted and Peter before the main trophy presentations on the Sunday evening. What a great way to finish a great weekend. Rob Oades. Full results here.
1st September 2004 Because I will be competing in the World Masters Regatta in Hamburg on Friday, I will not be able to update the Latest News Page from now until next Sunday evening. If you wish to post any reports for inclusion upon my return, please email them in a form I can just copy and paste to this page.
31st August 2004 Ian Grant writes ----- I'm vice captain of Brunel Uni Rowing Club, just on the Egham side of Old Windsor and we're looking to buy 1-2 second hand coxed fours that are still in a good condition. If anyone knows of any local clubs, through peoples various links, that may be able to help could they get in contact with me or to a rowing address at: rowingclub@hotmail.com
31st August 2004 Clare Wood sends this short report from last weekend's Ross Veteran and Junior Regatta ----- A good day was had at Ross Veteran and Junior regatta by the Veteran squad, a pot was missed in the Vet C coxed four by a whisker as we were announced the victors by the commentator only to have the result changed!!!!
31st August 2004 Steve Tassell emails ----- It turns out Steve Williams the bow man from the coxless four lives at the end of out road and when he returned home last night the local residents had thrown an impromptu party in his house! See pic1 and pic2
30th August 2004 Due to the upcoming World Masters Regatta in Hamburg, would you please ensure that all submissions for the Latest News Page are sent by tomorrow evening (Tuesday). Please send your reports for Ross Vets and Juniors Regatta as soon as possible.
28th August 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 diamond rings, marriage and watching the Olympics!
27th August 2004 Robin Dunlop advises ----- Ok don't tell the pubs and clubs crews this one..... You might have noticed a few TV reports etc on the err 'sewage' problem at Putney etc with all the rain fall, well I 'wasn't very well at all' last week, mmmm without too much detail I think some of the effects of what's going on down stream are also happening in smaller doses up stream. I haven't observed any environmental websites etc but if you feel a little queasy etc etc (no graphic details please) best get it checked out can get serious. Wash your hands once finished from rowing and any other parts that may have been splashed etc.... just a precaution as my bowels have just settled..... good news is rowing is continued to be banned on the Putney stretch giving us others a bit more of a chance!!
27th August 2004 Caroline Gill emails ----- Members currently training Pubs & Clubs crews are asked to ensure that they obey the rules of the river at all times when coxing. The safety of the novice crews as well as all other river users is of paramount importance and there have been a number of instances recently when coxes have been stopping or turning in the wrong part of the river, thus endangering other crews. The Water Safety Plan is available in the clubhouse and on the website, please check it out again before you next go out on the river! Thanks Caroline
26th August 2004 Bigblade has posted some photographs available for purchasing taken at last weekend's Oxford Regattas.
25th August 2004 Kit Ofiicer, Alison Rolt writes ----- With the autumn & winter weather appearing to be drawing in sooner than we would like, I will be placing another kit order, to include some new winter kit. Visit the kit page NOW, to place your order before Monday 6th September. Paper order forms will be available in the boat club by the end of the week. As usual, please make cheques available to Staines Boat club. Also, a reminder to those boys who 'purchased' a Staines tie before Henley and have not yet paid for it.....they cost £10, so pay up please!
25th August 2004 Doug Pritchard, who you will remember as the SBC rower from the late fifties who now resides in Australia, writes ----- Its got to be the Olympics-going through the photo albums and allsorts! I have attached a recent photo of self for the reunited. In 1959 I rowed 6 in the head and have a couple of photos that you may like to use on the club web site. For an old fogie such as myself its wonderful to be able to look through the photos on this site, and sort of join in with todays events. By 64 I had come to Sydney and was rowing with Mosman Rowing club where the training sessions were quite strenuous!!!!!!!!
25th August 2004 Ian Grant has submitted a few photos taken at the Oxford Regattas last weekend. See Photographs Page.
24th August 2004 Caroline Gill emails ----- Pubs & Clubs Regatta - HELP PLEASE!!! Training is well underway now for the Pubs & Clubs crews (some looking more confident than others at this stage!), so thanks to all of you who have entered crews or are helping out coxing. The regatta takes place on Sunday 12th September and I would really appreciate as many volunteers as possible to help out on the day. There are various jobs on offer including doing the sandwiches, BBQ, bouncy castle, ergo challenge, landing stage, start, finish etc. If you are able to help please let me know ASAP as I'm on holiday next week and need to organise this before I go. Remember this is a great source of funds and new members for the club, plus it should be a really fun day. Thanks in advance!!! Caroline
24th August 2004 Robin Dunlop advises ----- Check out the Sports Academy on this BBC webpage. This is an excellent intro to send to your P&C's crews etc, they will require Real Audio player to view videos etc which can be downloaded from here. Also some useful info for all of us in general. Girls, James Cracknell gets his chest out - that might get you interested.......... Robin
24th August 2004 Jules Reichel writes ----- Last reminder to all ladies - please hand in cheques for the Womens Dinner on the 23rd September by the end of this week. You can just leave envelopes in the top tray! Thanks and see you all soon - Jules
23rd August 2004 David Dimes sends his report from the Oxford weekend ----- "The Staines Men's squad managed to send a somewhat depleted squad to race at Oxford at the weekend. Saturday saw racing over a 1000m which discouraged the "Sprint Squad" from entering in force but saw some small boat entries from the more adventurous Senior squad members and a Novice 4+ entry The Pair of Mark and Adam were unlucky not to progress beyond the first round after 'running foul of the twisty course' while Luc and Nick suffered a similar experience while losing to the eventual winners. The scullers (Helge and Ian) and Novice four had mixed fortunes and early exits so Staines were out of luck and rowers by early afternoon. On the plus side the racing squad (and supporters) were all able to pace themselves nicely for the evenings entertainment which saw the squad enjoying the City of Oxford hospitality (beer and cheesy disco) and a red hot Dutch floorshow from some Continental friends! Just ask Beefy, Smiler, Tank, Pieman, Numpty or Cheeky Boy for details!..... Sunday saw large hangovers but slightly more success (build that into your training plans Robin!) The 500m course held greater appeal and we managed to enter a couple of bigger boats. The S4 4+ of Julian, Nick, Dom and Dave rowed well together (despite race 1 being their first outing as a crew) winning through a couple of early rounds until coming unstuck in the semis to Hertford. The S3 8+ (Luc, Adam, Nick, Julian, Dom, Ian, Tom B and Dave) won through to the final but lost out narrowly to a strong Wallingford crew. A big thankyou must go to Leanne for agreeing to Cox and she steered brilliantly throughout the day after a minor "bush interface" in an early (winning) round."
23rd August 2004 Katy Burke and Diane Gill send their report from Oxford ----- The Women's S4 crew on Saturday consisted of Dom Foley (cox), Katy Burke, Anna Behrendt, Bonny Howes and Jackie Hawkins. In the first round they were drawn against Reading. Despite having a clean start and a good row the Reading crew proved to be very strong, pulling away from us gradually down the course. The final verdict was win for Reading by approx. 2 lengths. With subs being drafted in from Kent and Birmingham for the second day of racing, the Women's S4 crew on Sunday consisted of Caroline Gill (cox), Di Gill, Anna Behrendt, Bonny Howes and Jackie Hawkins. With a bye through the first round, the crew gave a good account of themselves in the semi final against Barnes Bridge Ladies, but lack of practice together saw them about two lengths down by the finish. One suspects that the late night disco dancing might also have had something to do with it! On the bank, spectators were kept amused on an extremely busy stretch of river with suspiciously few marshals and lots of near misses. The bend seemed to catch a lot of crews out and there was an impressive collision between a women's eight and a launch (which was tied to the bank at the time). At one point racing stopped to allow a bow girl to rescue a dog that had gone for a quick dip between races. Those about to race didn't miss out, as even the start tent ended up in the river. Despite the lack of pots, a fun weekend was had by all.
23rd August 2004 Luc Wilson reports on the weekend's racing at the Oxford Regattas ----- Oxford City took place this weekend with several Staines crews competing and such was the confidence that one member was heard to say, "If our eight entries win we could win the Victor Ludorum again" Confidence is an awful thing. As the majority of the top men and women's squads were missing it was left to the Sprint squad to do their best over the extra long distance. The day started promisingly enough with a first round win for Ian Grant in his novice sculls over last years finalist Philiby of Reading RC. Things soon took a dive with every other crew failing to progress over the challenging 1000m course. There were however some encouraging signs with the MS2- of Adam Gill and Mark Rolt coming within one foot of beating a very strong City Of Oxford crew who had reached quarter final level at Henley this year in the fours. The Men's Novice four also made their debut but were somewhat hampered by an 82kg Cox and first race nerves losing by under a length to a very strong crew. Other crews competing on Saturday included Women's S4 Coxed four (sorry didn't catch your race), Helge in sculls, Nick and myself in S2 pairs and some vet competition. Sorry to any others competing. It can however be said that the majority of the Staines contingent was in the pub by 1.30pm.
Sunday started with raging hangovers for many of the Staines boys and girls, this did not however stop the Men's S4 coxed four (Nick, Julian, Tom and Dave) from taking some notable scalps early in the day allowing them to progress to the semi finals of a hugely subscribed event. The other men's racing occurring was a men's S3 eight. This consisted of (from bow to stern Dave Dimes, Tom B, Ian Grant (changed sides) Julian B, Nick H, Dom S, Adam G, Luc W. Cox Leanne J. Considering that we had only a few outings to prepare the performance was good. In the semi final we faced University College, Dublin. Just the mention of these giants of rowing was enough to put us off, however after spotting several of these students in the bar it became clear that it was actually an alumni crew and many had done little rowing for a few years. The Staines crew started well and then settled well at 40 pulling ahead at around the 250m mark to put us a length clear at the finish post. Next up was Wallingford in the final. Alas we were unable to repeat our previous performance and lost to a very professional crew by around a length and a half. Although there were no victories this year I'm sure a good time was had by all. Thanks must also go to the "Staines roar" on both days, which was very encouraging and lifted our racing crews time and again. Please keep it up it makes a tremendous difference. Luc Perhaps someone else would like to comment on the vets and women's racing crews, I know the vet four raced twice on Sunday with Adrian Tollet also racing in a scull, as well as a women's four on Sunday. Apologies for any I have missed out.
22nd August 2004 Oxford City Royal and Sprint Regattas took place this weekend. Reports are awaited from the respective squads and will be published here as soon as received.
20th August 2004 Graham Standbrook emails ----- A young barmaid called Clare who rows for Weybridge with whom Will Lewis & I were briefly talking to last night is looking for a partner to scull with at Gloucester & Ross (not Bristol) as her existing partner has dropped out (in novice double sculls) and wondered whether, if Staines girls are going, one of them might be able to take the seat with her (presumably as a Staines/Weybridge combo crew)? Her contact address is:- clare.groome@durham.ac.uk
19th August 2004 I have just received a contact from Doug Pritchard, an ex SBC rower from the late fifties who now resides in Australia. Perhaps someone who remembers him might like to email him. See SBC Rowers Reunited.
17th August 2004 The draws have now been published for both Oxford City Royal (1000 metres) and Sprint (500 metres) Regattas that take place next Saturday 21st August and Sunday 22nd August respectively. Several Staines crews have entered namely 8 on Saturday and 7 on Sunday.
17th August 2004 The ARA have a page on their website dedicated to British International Rowing which has updates from the Olympics in Athens. Also see David Biddulph's Olympic page for useful links and Rachel Quarrell's Olympic Impressions to be found from a link on her New Information Page.
16th August 2004 If you are having trouble accessing this website from time to time, you are not alone. This is down to problems with the BT server but I am reluctant to transfer the whole site unless absolutely necessary. Please bear with the situation for the time being and let us all hope that BT can sort themselves out quickly!
16th August 2004 Luc Wilson emails ----- Could you put something on the site saying best wishes to Bob Slade and hope he gets well soon. As you may or may not know he was involved in a serious car accident last week and spent two days in hospital. However after speaking to him on Saturday he assured me he was ok. Regards Luc
15th August 2004 Hot on the tail of the next scoop, reporter Steve Tassell writes ----- From Aus via Greece! Duncan proposed to Jodi over in Aus yesterday and despite everything she said “Yes!” Congratulations to the latest pairing to get engaged.
15th August 2004 This news report just in from Staines Boat Club's own Olympics reporter in Athens, Steve Tassell ----- I arrived in Athens Friday lunchtime in 36 degree dry heat (lovely!) and was whisked straight off to the Team GB lodge where we are staying for the next week. I can’t say that much about it (for security reasons) other than this is where the athletes come and chill out and meet up with friends, family and coaching staff. Miriam Batten is running the lodge who you’ll remember won a silver medal at the Sydney Olympics in the women’s quad. There’s a great atmosphere here and it’s very interesting chatting to all the support and coaching staff from the different sports. It seems rowing isn’t the only sport which suffers from lack of funding, too much politics and not enough national recognition! Highlights so far have been watching the opening ceremony in the lodge with some of the athletes who are competing in the first couple of days. Most noteworthy was the girls and guys from the synchronised diving which we won our first medal in last night! I spoke to Leon’s parents this morning and as you can imagine they’re absolutely chuffed to bits! In all of this Tony and Cherie Blair turned up yesterday for a cup of tea and a chat! This morning I sat and watched the girls win through their heat of the quad with Miriam Batten giving me the inside gen cool! We’ve just had a visit from HRH Princess Anne. Very nice lady and very down to earth she loves her sport although I don’t think she was so keen on the demo we gave her! (see photos). Also got a piccie taken with Leon and Pete (my new mates!). More updates later. See Photographs Page.
15th August 2004 Jules Reichel writes regarding the Staines Women Black Tie Dinner at Foxhills ----- Hi everyone, Just a final reminder about the Dinner on 24th September 2004. I need the cheques handed in to book your seat/s for the Dinner by 24th August. Please make the cheques payable to “Foxhills” and hand in to the top tray at the club or myself. Please can you write the name of the attendees at the back of the cheque. Lots of you have asked about bringing their partners…YES – THAT’S THE IDEA!! So, hope to see you all soon, Jules
13th August 2004 Adrian Tollett sends this SOS ----- I'm trying to enter a novice 4+ for Oxford City Royal Regatta on the Saturday 21st, but I can't find a cox. If anyone can help then please let me know.
13th August 2004 Neil Wallace of Inverness Rowing Club has put up in interesting web page that has been discussed recently in the rowing newsgroups. It has step by step breakdowns of the stroke cycles of top scullers and rowers. The animations may take a short time to load but they are certainly worth looking at.
13th August 2004 The draw for the Olympic rowing races took place yesterday and has now been published. Click on 'Start List' of the heats you are interested in to get the competitors and their respective lanes.
12th August 2004 For those of you hoping to follow the Olympic rowing events as they happen, the BBC have a Rowing Schedule page complete with race times. Also See David Biddulph's Olympic page which has details of other interesting websites.
12th August 2004 Craig Twaddle advises ----- Keep an eye out at the Olympics for a distant relative of mine, Nathan Twaddle, in the bow seat of the New Zealand 2-. There aren't very many of us Twaddles and so I'm glad someone in the family has made it in the world of rowing!
12th August 2004 Our friends at Putney Town RC have a new poll on their website. Headed 'WITH THE OLYMPIC REGATTA FAST APPROACHING HOW DO YOU RATE THE 4-'S CHANCES'. Why not give it a go!
11th August 2004 Rob Oades writes ----- Just a quick reminder that the Junior BBQ will take place after training this Sunday (15th Aug) at the club. Please bring your own meaty things to cook plus salady things and bread to share. The club bar will be open with a barrel of London Pride awaiting attention. Hope to see you there Best Regards Rob Oades / Carol Goldswain
11th August 2004 Steve Brett has published some photographs taken at Maidenhead Regatta last weekend on his website.
10th August 2004 The draw (PDF format) for the World Masters Regatta has now been published. It takes place in Hamburg on 2-5th September 2004. Staines have entered their D coxed four and will be competing in Heat 6 against crews from France, Germany, UK and USA at 14.06 local time on Friday 3rd September.
10th August 2004 Luc Wilson emails ----- Would all scullers please put blades away properly in their right place. I spent 15 mins yesterday morning looking for my set before I found them, in the wrong place! Not only is it irritating but such equipment is not cheap and it wouldn't take much for them to go missing/get broken! Regards Luc
9th August 2004 Caroline Gill advises ----- Don't forget, entry forms (and money) for Pubs & Clubs crews must be in today - I will be at the club tonight to pick them up. If you have already submitted an entry and not heard from me yet, I will be emailing info out tomorrow morning to all crews taking part. Any questions please let me know asap. I am also still short of coxes and looking for volunteers! Thanks, Caroline
8th August 2004 Rob Oades emails his report from Maidenhead Regatta ----- The Junior squad had 3 wins at the Maidenhead Regatta, helping Staines win the Victor Ludorum Cup. These were Jenny Goldswain in the WJ13 1x, Becky Corless and Lisa in the WJ16 2x (Becky rowing 2 years above her age) and Rob Oades and Nick Pollen in the J14 2x. Congratulations to all. This brings the total wins for the junior squad this season to 21 with 3 regatta's to go. Full results will be available shortly on the Maidenhead RC website. See Photographs Page.
8th August 2004 Ian Grant also advises ----- Would just like to say that Nick and Luke, with moral support from myself, have cleaned the collapsed roof from the male changing rooms and un-blocked all the old rotting leaves from the rain water pipe that had created a large pond on the roof. The amount of leaking should now be greatly reduced.
8th August 2004 Ian Grant sends this report from Maidenhead Regatta ----- Helge N, Mark S, Ian G and Terry all lost out in their singles in some tough racing. The S3 4+ of Luc W, Nick H, Dom S, Dave D and coxed by Penny won their final comfortably. The S1 8 just lost to Marlow in the final after being neck and neck all the way down the course. The S3 8 had a rematch against Putney Town in the first round, but putney suffered steering problems after 10 strokes causing both eights to come together resulting in Putney's disqualification. The final, at 19:30 against the home team Maidenhead, was another close race with both crews level all the way but unfortunately Maidenhead came through to win it by a 1/4 of a length. The S3 8, although disapointed, were pleased to find out that they were only 2 seconds off the time of the S1 8. I can also report that Staines won the 'Victor Ludorum' for the most successful visiting club and received a prize of £250. Full results will be available shortly on the Maidenhead RC website. See Photographs Page.
8th August 2004 Steve Tassell sends this report from yesterday's Maidenhead Regatta ----- Staines Ladies carried on their purple patch at Maidenhead on Saturday winning Senior 3 eights. The crew consisted of Dom Foley (cox), Katy Burke, Sarah Tassell, Jules Reichel, Suzanne Reng, Alison Rolt, Lucy Duncombe, Dianne Gill and Jackie Hawkins. In the first round we came up against Putney Town. With a confident start we were up to a half length lead by the end of our stride. This was further increased as the rating dropped to 34 crossing the line 1½ lengths up. In the final we raced Sons of The Thames. Again gaining a lead off the start the ladies stayed in front all the way to the line crossing a length up in the end. This was the only ladies crew racing this weekend due to Maidenhead not giving ‘Winner from Previous regatta’ slots so unfortunately due to the wins at Henley T&V last weekend we couldn’t race the other combinations we had entered due to their status change. Rumour has it though with the combined successes of the men and juniors we managed to pick up the Victor Ludorum for the most successful club! Well done everyone. Full results will be available shortly on the Maidenhead RC website. See Photographs Page.
8th August 2004 Putting in a brief appearance at the club this morning was long time Staines member Den Shelton. Den, who admits to being 81 years old, has held various posts at the club and was our representative for Remenham Club for several years.
6th August 2004 Congratulations to Stuart and Jo-Anne Simms who have announced that they are expecting a baby which is due to be born in January 2005.
6th August 2004 Mark Cashen emails ----- Here's a good article from The Guardian to build the Olympic tension......not long now!
5th August 2004 Liz Lake writes regarding the Boston Marathon which takes place on Sunday 19th September 2004 ----- As you may or may not know a few of us Ladies are planning to do the Boston Marathon this year for Charity. Yes, that drunken spider, known as an octuple, you see every Wednesday and Saturday on the river is attempting to make it over 31 miles to raise some funds for the Boathouse and also Macmillan Cancer Trust. As the money is all going to 2 very good causes, it is time for you to dig deep into your pockets, unlock your wallets etc., and pull out whatever loose change you have. There is a sponsor form up in the boat club (by boat booking forms) and all participants have their own individual forms as well so there is no escape! Please give generously. Thank you. The Boston Crew! (AKA: Leanne, Ali, Liz, Clare W, Elaine, Anne, Michelle, Clare L, Hayley.)
5th August 2004 Advice on the ARA website from the Thames Regional Rowing Council for anyone considering rowing on the Tideway ----- For reasons of health and safety the Thames Regional Rowing Council, under guidance from the various water authorities are advising members not to go rowing until further notice below Teddington lock. This is because levels of sewerage in the Thames are very high after the storms on Tuesday - as reported on the BBC website. The authorities are working to clean up the river and members are asked to listen to local radio for the latest advice. Margaret Adams, Chairman Thames Regional Rowing Council.
4th August 2004 The draw for Maidenhead Regatta which takes place this Saturday 7th August has now been published on the Maidenhead RC website. Staines have 23 entries in this regatta.
4th August 2004 Caroline Gill emails ----- HELP WANTED! I am seeking a number of coxes for Pubs & Clubs crews as we have several crews entered this year who have not taken part before and, in some cases, have had no contact with SBC in the past so don't have anyone to cox them. Remember you don't need to be a very experienced cox (or of traditional coxing size!) - as long as you can steer the boat, stick to the navigation rules of the river and impart your rowing wisdom, you should be fine! You will need to commit to 5 x 1 hour training sessions between now and the middle of September (so not so much that it will interfere with your own training), and be available on 12th September for the regatta. Please email me if you are willing to help. Thanks, Caroline. P.S. If you have organised a crew yourself but not yet got the form & money to me, I need it by Monday 9th at the very latest.
4th August 2004 The Tideway Slug has a link to the BBC news website which reports on a newly developed surface coating. It says 'One application could be non-stick submarines, which would glide through the water with much less resistance and require less force and fuel to propel them'. Could this be used on racing boats? Apparently, this would be banned by the ARA under it's current rule (2-3-8c) .
3rd August 2004 The torrential rain that struck Staines this afternoon caused two problems at the club. Firstly, the coxed four Don Moore, that was outside on trestles to be inspected by the boat repairer, filled with water. This collapsed a trestle and resulted in a bent fin and delaminated side skin. Fortunately there was no structural damage. Secondly, the rain overflowed the gutters and entered the changing rooms bringing down a part of the ceilings.
2nd August 2004 A call from our Captain, Steve Smith to say that he and Helen have announced their engagement to be married. Steve says that the marriage is likely to take place towards the end of next year. Congratulations to them both from all at SBC.
2nd August 2004 Sarah Tassell advises that there are several photographs available to purchase of the Staines' girls receiving their Trophies at Henley T&V Regatta on the Tim Hodges website. See the 2 sets of thumbnails here (23 in total).
1st August 2004 Steve Tassell has submitted some photos taken at yesterday's Henley T&V Regatta, several after June's Henley Women's Regatta and a single photo from Staines Regatta (bottom of page 4). See Photographs Page.
1st August 2004 Henley Town and Visitors Regatta took place yesterday. Steve Tassell sends this report ----- Our second trip to Henley this year proved just as successful as the first but the quality of racing and the improvement made by so many individuals in the squad was what was so impressive to see. We entered two crews on the women's side. First up was the Senior 2 4+ which raced Thames, the crew consisting of Dom Foley (cox), Jules Reichel, Jen Page, Sarah Fudge and Sarah Tassell. Staines went off strong from the start gaining an early canvas lead. They then settled into a strong 34 and pulled out a 1/4 length lead. Thames then put in a big push to come back to level, Staines duly responded by putting in their own push gaining a 1/4 length lead again. From here they never looked back winning by 3/4 length at the finish. Impressive stuff this was their second outing together yet they rowed like they'd been together for months! The final was drawn against Eton Excelsior. Staines took a half length lead off the start and sat a length and a half up all the way down. Eton put in a push at the end to come back to 3/4 length but Staines remained calm to take the win. In the Senior 3 eights we had Dom Foley (cox), Katy Burke, Jen Page, Jules Reichel, Sarah Fudge, Cath Burke, Suzanne Reng, Dianne Gill and Sarah Tassell. We were drawn against HSBC in the first round and again the form from the four carried through to the eight gaining a strong start and getting half a length up by the 150m mark. This lead gradually built to 1 1/2 lengths in the end. The race itself was a bit nervy so we had to work on this for the final against Vesta. Vesta were employing a similar amount of mixing up of squads, whereby they had three Henley medal winners from their Senior eight the rest of the crew were made up from their senior and novice squads. Staines got off the start slightly up but Vesta were quick to respond pushing through to a canvas lead. Staines impressively took the rate down to row back through Vesta to gain back a canvas lead. From here they gradually lengthened out rowing powerfully to the finish. With Vesta never sitting more than half a length down this was impressive rowing under pressure. Staines hung on to a very well deserved win. There were three novices in the crew, Katy Burke, Cath Burke and Dianne Gill as this was a qualifying event this was their novice pot and what a way to win it! It's also worth noting that Suzanne Reng, Jules Reichel and Sarah Tassell who were also novices at the start of the season are now Senior 3 rowers and have notched up some 6 wins! Well done everyone! Full results are available on the regatta website. Also see Photographs Page.
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