Latest News 1/11/04

29th April 2005 From the ARA website ----- Entries now open for World Masters Regatta that takes place this September in Strathclyde.

28th April 2005 Rachell Quarrell's The Rowing Service reports ----- Evesham Regatta (UK) - the meadow for car parking next to the club is open for the regatta only, with controlled access at the request of the council. Please would all planning to park there have ID ready (eg ARA card or club kit) to confirm you are competing rowers and OK to park) when you arrive. Trailers should ring Evesham Rowing Club on 01386-446131 when a few minutes away from the meadow so that the club can let you in. Draw for the regatta is on the ERC website.

28th April 2005 Social Secretaries, Bonny Howes and Dom South report ----- ALL are welcome (lady's and gents) to a BEER & WINE festival on Saturday, 14th May at 7:30pm. Tickets are only £10 if purchased prior to the evening and include as much beer or wine as you can drink. Tickets can be purchased from the bar on Tuesdays or Thursdays and also from Dom South / Bonny Howes / Terry Moore. Please let us know if you are coming and reserve a £10 ticket by clicking on this link. NB - tickets on the door will be £12. Look forward to seeing parents, vets, womens / mens squads, SWPS, etc. etc. on the evening. Bon & Dom.

28th April 2005 Tom Blackman emails ----- Due to adverse weather conditions could all crews please put their safety first!!!!!!!! Due to bad conditions this morning a Royal Holloway coxed four fell foul of the waves crashing in to their boat causing them to abandon ship!!!! Whilst out in a double we could hear some faint calls in the distance thinking that someone was being attacked by Tyson we soon realised that instead it was a rather wet Holloway four. We were asked to keep quiet but could not resist (they would have done the same to us) Be careful water sports can be dangerous!!!! (and very wet) Tom and Dom ;o)

28th April 2005 A large coningent of Staines rowers are going to the Evesham Regattas this weekend. The traditional Saturday night venue for a meal and a drink is The Fleece Inn at Bretforton, just a few miles outside Evesham. A mid 17th thatched building, owned by The National Trust, The Fleece is one of the best pubs in the UK. It suffered fire damage in February 2004 and is currently being restored but is open for business and certainly worth a visit. See their website for full details.

28th April 2005 The Tideway Slug reports ----- Salvage Association Rowing Report -- salvagereport.txt (214kb file - will open in a new window) The above document should appear on the TRRC website sometime Thursday morning along with deatails of how clubs and individuals can input to the response process. Once it's up there I'll remove it from here.

27th April 2005 For those of you interested in the lives of our fellow river creatures, the mute swans, please take a look at theEgham Swan Sanctuary website. The sanctuary is shortly to be moved to Shepperton and currently is trying to raise funds for their swan and wildlife hospital. A pair of swans has nested in the corner of the Staines lawn for the last 4 years and a clutch of eggs has been laid in this years nest. Of particular interest to our 'Head of Rowing', Robin Dunlop, will be why Tyson, the extremely vicous swan, tipped him out of his sculling boat earlier this week after an airborne attack.

26th April 2005 Tom Blackman emails to inform ----- Great news - Julian & Karen Blackman are now the proud parents of Ciara Niamh Blackman, born on Sunday 24th April and weighing in at 11lb 2oz (a very healthy weight for a future SBC oarswoman!!). Congratulations from all at SBC.

26th April 2005 The draw for Evesham Annual Regatta and Sprint Regatta that take place next Saturday 30th April and Sunday 1st May has now been published on the regatta website. Staines have a large contingent of juniors racing along with several veteran crews.

26th April 2005 From the ARA website today ----- Council approved the introduction of a boat identification scheme, which will initially apply to all boats using the tideway part of the Thames, whether for racing, training or recreation. Safety and coaching launches besides private craft must also be identifiable, including the boats from any visiting clubs using the tideway. The scheme may expand to other navigation authority waters when the situation demands.The Boat ID must be a three letter code (based on that used in the National Championships and available on the ARA’s website), together with a three digit fleet number (including zeros) as determined by the club. (i.e. GBR001) Lettering shall be in capitals, in a regular sans serif (Arial “style”) font, with a minimum height 6cm and clearly readable (in a contrasting colour) on both port and starboard bow saxboard or vertical surface. Please see the full article here and note that the Staines Boat Club boats will have the identification code STN.

25th April 2005 Our Captain, Steve Ballantine reports ----- We now have the summer timetable (Excel format) published and on the wall in the clubhouse. The notable changes are 2 sessions on weekday evenings and weekend rowing starting 1/2hour early. People sharing boats are expected to stick to these outing times. If a boat is still on the rack 15mins after the start of a session it's up for grabs!!! (Please be sensible people get stuck in traffic on week day evenings) Block booked boats are still expected to be made available when ever possible by the co-ordinator.

25th April 2005 Julie Palmer emails ----- Is there anyone out there who can recommend an electrician in the Staines area please? I'm struggling to get hold of one! Please drop me a note on julie.palmer@bms.com. Thanks!

25th April 2005 Craig Twaddle writes ----- The company I work for is changing name and so we're getting shot of anything with the old name and logo. I've therefore got another batch of unused neck lanyards to give away - they're handy at regattas for ARA cards, keys etc. I'll leave them in the clubhouse - help yourselves!

25th April 2005 Robin Dunlop advises ----- Our 'friendly' swan Tyson landed on my 1x rigger yesterday and got me to 'taste' the Thames!

24th April 2005 On the running front, Nikki Harris has now competed in 2 Marathons this month. Firstly the Paris Marathon where she achieved a personal best time of 4 hours and 20 minutes and secondly the London Marathon last weekend. Nikki has also started rowing again and was seen out on the water today after a spell away from boats.

23rd April 2005 Today saw the boat naming ceremony of Sir William Perkins's School. Members of the school along with rowers, parents and coaches saw the boats named and rowed during this afternoon. The fleet includes a quad scull (Kingfisher), a single scull (Pipit), a coaching launch (Perkie Duck) and a brand new trailer to take the boats to regattas. The headmistress, Sue Ross, took the opportunity to take to the water on the coaching launch steered by Liz Bernard. See Photographs Page.

23rd April 2005 The swans are still sitting on the nest in the corner of the club grounds (see photo) but we are still awaiting a report of how many eggs there are this year.

23rd April 2005 Steve Tassell emails with this link to the Photobox website where you can see more photos that were taken at last weekend's annual dinner.

21st April 2005 For those rowers aged 27 or over who are thinking of competing at the FISA World Masters Regatta in Strathclyde this September, please note that the official website has now been fully updated.

20th April 2005 Tyson, the vicous swan is getting his reputation spread by the Tideway Slug. Safe in Twickenham RC, little does the Slug know that the Child of Tyson, growing stronger as each month passes, is looking for waters new. Who knows, the gentle waters of Twickenham may appeal!

20th April 2005 Congratulations today go to Rob Oades and Charlotte Morrison were photographed this evening with the John French Memorial Trophy which is awarded annually by the club to the most promising oarsman of the year. It was presented to SBC in 1975 by the widow of John French. Past winners have included both Tom and Sarah Goldswain. Last year it was won by Steve Brett. See photo.

20th April 2005 Anna Behrendt & Tom Blackman send this link to the Kodak Easy Share Gallery where they have posted photographs taken at last weekend's dinner dance.

20th April 2005 The draw for Wallingford Regatta that takes place on Sunday 1st May has now been published on their website. Staines has 5 crews competing, one S3 8+, one E4-, two S3 4+ and one S2 2-.

19th April 2005 Please be aware of other rowers on our stretch of the river that are not familiar with our Safety Rules and maybe on the wrong side of the river. The rowers concerned, from a neighbouring club were advised of this website and have promised to check the safety rules and also to come round and say hello. We look forward to seeing them.

18th April 2005 Social Secretaries, Bonny Howes and Dom South report ----- The Staines Boat Club annual dinner was held at the club on Saturday night. One hundred glamorous members and their partners / friends descended onto the lawn for reception drinks and then sat down to dinner, followed by a disco. Our own memories of the night are pretty hazy (!!) but it feels like a lot of fun was had by all and there was a great atmosphere in the marquee! Over £500 was raised for the club in the raffle alone. Our captain Steve Ballantine made the speeches, during which the following people were noted for their acheivements:
Most improved rower - Ian Grant
Most promising oarsman - Rob Oades and Charlotte Morrison
Individual / Crew achievement - Graham Carey's vet crew
Club Person of the year - Bob Slade.
Roger Moulding was also awarded honorary membership. Thanks go to everyone for their help and support before, during and after the event. Bon and Dom

17th April 2005 Diane Gill sends this link to the Photobox site that shows several 'interesting' photos taken yesterday evening after the dinner dance.

16th April 2005 The Thames Regional Rowing Council website reports 2 items -- Firstly the CDO's Club Clinic -- There will be a club clinic before the Full Council Meeting on April 18th at Reading RC. The session will start at 6:30pm and is simply a chance for any club attending the Council meeting to come and speak to Simon Blackburn on any issue they need help with - e.g. Clubmark, Awards for All applications, partnerships with schools, hosting coaching courses, etc. Secondly the River & Rowing Museum Rowing Lectures -- There are two lectures coming up at the River & Rowing Museum: Putting Women's Rowing on the Gold Standard - Saturday 7th May & Annual Women's Rowing Lecture: In the medal zone of the Athens Olympics - Tuesday 14th June more details

15th April 2005 Michelle O'Riordan has now finished the travelog of her year long around the world trip that she completed last May. See here for the final installment.

14th April 2005 Membership Secretary, Craig Twaddle emails ----- In addition to the Annual Club Awards, we will be awarding an Honorary Membership to a long-standing member of the club at the Dinner Dance this Saturday evening.

14th April 2005 Rob Oades advises ----- During the school Easter break, Rob Oades and Nick Pollen spent a week in Hazewinkel, Belgium at the International Rowing Centre. They were on a training camp run by Marlow Rowing Club. They joined approx 100 rowers from Marlow, Maidenhead and Clare's Court School in an intensive weeks sculling involving three outings a day plus gym work. Both Rob and Nick had a great but very tiring time and hopefully learned a few things also. Attached are a few pictures Rob took of the Centre - it looks agreat place to train. Thanks to all the coach's involved, especially Russell Peacock of Marlow Rowing Club for inviting the boys and keeping an eye on them during the week. See Photographs Page.

13th April 2005 Rachell Quarrell's The Rowing Service reports that there is a new rowing photographer on the scene, Photostar. He currently has images available from Bedford Small Boats Head that took place last weekend.

13th April 2005 Social Secretaries, Dom and Bonny write ----- The dinner and dance will start at the boat club from 7pm on Saturday night. Bubbly will be served on the lawn prior to dinner which will be at 7:45pm. Look forward to seeing you all on the night. PS - please bring raffle prizes to the club during Friday or Saturday morning. Call us on 07753 654 373 if you need to arrange to meet up and drop prize in.

13th April 2005 In the Thames Regional Rowing Council members biographies we find our very own Nigel Weare. It reads ----- Nigel Weare - Juniors' Representative (Upriver) -- Nigel Weare has been involved in rowing for 30 years, and worked for the ARA for 15 of them. He has coached and coxed to world championship level, is a Gold level coach, ARA tutor, ARA assessor, and was an ARA verifier. Nigel has been a member of the following committees in the past: Thames Regional Rowing Council; ARA Junior Commission; ARA Women's Commission; ARA Development Committee; ARA Instructional Committee, ARA Technical Panel. Nigel is also a senior tutor and national trainer for sports coach UK, a child protection school governor, a mentor for an education and business partnership, and a self-employed sports consultant, contracted part-time to Dorney Lake Trust. He is secretary of Dorney Boat Club, and a life honorary member of Staines Boat Club. So if you need ANY questions answered about junior rowing then Nigel is your man. He can be contacted by emailing upriverjuniors@thames-rrc.org

12th April 2005 Mrs K Varney writes from Eton Racing Boats regarding the position of Office Manager ----- This vacancy may be of interest to your members --- Eton Racing Boats has gained a reputation as one of the top boat builders in the UK for modern composite rowing boats and rowing supplies. The successful candidate will be responsible for the smooth running of the office, business planning and budgeting, pricing, marketing and advertising, personnel and recruitment and many other aspects of running a small business. All applications should be made in writing and sent to: Mrs K Varney, Eton Racing Boats, Brocas Street, Eton, Windsor, SL4 6BW Email: etonracingboats@etoncollege.org.uk

11th April 2005 Alison Rolt is selling her Freelander TD4. Perfect for towing & one careful lady owner - click here for details.

10th April 2005 Bedford Fours & Small Boats Head took place today with 3 Staines Crews competing. The results are as follows ----- VC4+ 7 mins 26 secs (2nd of 3), VD4+ 7 mins 28 secs (2nd of 2), VC4- 7 mins 23 secs (3rd of 3). Full results can be found on the Bedford RC website.

9th April 2005 Paul Goldswain reports that Tyson, the vicious swan that owns the stretch of river near the church downsteam of the club, has been rumoured by local residents to have killed twice again this year. No, not rowers but two other swans that have come a little too close. He apparently drowned them by holding them underwater!

9th April 2005 Lost yesterday, a mobile phone in the clubhouse or women's changing room. If found please let me know.

9th April 2005 The swans that have nested in the corner of the club's grounds for the last few years are again preparing their nest. The first egg is expected to be laid sometime this coming week.

8th April 2005 The Sir William Perkins's School Rowing Easter Training Camp finished today. Everyone agreed that it was great fun for both the established rowers and the 13 new girls that had never rowed before. See Photographs Page.

8th April 2005 For those members that are interested in ornithology, a flock of about 20 waxwings were spotted today in the top of the tall trees just downstream of the motorway bridge by the Runnymede Hotel.

8th April 2005 Congratulations go today to our Bar Officer, Terry Moore, who is celebrating his birthday. Terry has reached the ripe old age of 30 and has no doubt set his sights on joining the veteran squad shortly!

8th April 2005 One of our Danish friends (Erik Nielsen) from SAS, writes ----- Please find the attached invitation (Word doc) to SAS Sprinter Regatta Sat 25th. June 2005. Please advise your participation if any. You are very welcome. Also see the regatta homepage.

8th April 2005 The ARA website reports that there are two Bronze Coaching Award courses running this summer – in Worcester and in Kingston Upon Thames.

7th April 2005 Rachel Quarrell's New Rowing Information page has the following about a trailer stolen locally ----- The Skiff Championships Regatta trailer (UK) has disappeared - it was stored in the car park of the Wraysbury Skiff & Punting Club and probably went some time in February. Description - 30 feet long, steel open-framed trailer box, with two boat racks mounted in the centre of the box towards the rear and front. Trailer rear extension for numberplate, double axle (4 wheels), painted blue and approx. 30 years old, with a carrying capacity of 6 Thames skiffs. Previously owned by Eton College, Wraysbury S&PC and Burway RC so may be familiar to those on the circuit. If anyone has information please contact David Taylor 01753 708294 (day) or 01344 455719 (evening).

7th April 2005 Bonny Howes pleads ----- The dinner and dance is just over one week away. We have 100 confirmed attendees which is fantastic! Dom or myself will be sending a note out with more details about the night shortly. In the meantime, I would like to make one last plea that we all make an effort to get some more raffle prizes, and help raise some dosh for your boat club! Anything, however small would be very much appreciated! Please email me if you can offer anything at all.

7th April 2005 The Tideway Slug reports on changes to the rules of racing, which came into effect on 1st April 2005 as well as Matthew Pinsent's hospitality at the World Cup at Dorney Lake in May at a cost of just £125 a head!

6th April 2005 The draw for Bedford Spring Fours and Small Boats Head, that takes place next Sunday 10th April, has been published here. Staines have entered 3 crews, a VC4-, a VC4+ and a VD4+.

5th April 2005 The Sir William Perkins's School Rowing Easter Training Camp is being held during the day all this week at the club. Participants include established rowers from the past 2 years along with a large group of never rowed before novices. The coaches are all members of Staines Boat Club.

4th April 2005 Steve Tassell reports ----- The Women's squad descended on Henley this weekend, the centre of the rowing universe and the place we chose to change tack to focus on the summer season. Great progress was made over the weekend with the added bonus of doing some joint training sessions with Upper Thames on Sunday. Staines were well represented with two eights and two fours, there was green all over the river! Upper Thames had assembled an eight which included such rowing 'heavyweights' as Naomi Ashcroft, Great Britain International and none other than one time Staines member Mary-Ann Chalmers. All crews raced well with some great experience picked up along the way. Well done to Jules and Di for organising the rowing camp and making it such a success, thanks also go to Craig Twaddle, Stuart Simms, Jonathan Flynn, Steve Ballantine and Tom Blackman for coming down to help out with coaching and boat maintenance. See Photographs Page.

2nd April 2005 The Thames Regional Rowing Council website requests -- Meet the Council -- Club and Event Presidents, Club Captains, Event Secretaries and Club/Event Safety Advisers are invited to meet members of the Executive Committee at one of three events in April and May. The events are being held at: London Rowing Club (26 April), City of Oxford Rowing Club (5 May) and Kingston Rowing Club (25 May).

1st April 2005 From the ARA website - The ARA have inreased their membership rates!

1st April 2005 Steve Conner appeals to any members that may have seen or moved his pair of new Timberland boots that were left in the corner of the changing room some time ago, to let him know.

31st March 2005 The newly named Redgrave-Pinsent Rowing Lake in the Thames Valley near Oxford University has been announced on the FISA website.

31st March 2005 Adam Gill emails ----- Whilst the evenings are now lighter with the clocks going forward, can crews please take note that the daylight isn't everlasting just yet and if you're going out much beyond 18.30 you should still have lights on. There were a number of crews out last night who boated during good light, but stayed out beyond sunset without lights on. Lets not have any unecessary accidents and row clever; one white on the front and rear, and if you haven't checked it, the circulation pattern for evening rowing. Bring on the summer!

30th March 2005 Craig Twaddle writes ----- I'd like to say thanks to the 130 people who have already renewed their membership. There are still, however, just under 40 people who have yet to do so - YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE! Membership expires at the end of February but we allow members up until the end of March to renew. A "Naming & Shaming" list will go up in the clubhouse at the start of April and so please renew ASAP to avoid embarrassment. If there's anyone who's not intending on renewing then can you let me know so that I don't add you to the list. Also note that lapsed membership of Staines BC also invalidates membership of Remenham Club.

30th March 2005 Jim Pettitt has emailed a new Kodak Easy Share Gallery website link where 47 photographs of the rowing can be seen of the Staines rowers who competed in the Weybridge Junior Regatta that was held on Easter Monday.

29th March 2005 Peter Smith emails ----- Weybridge Junior Regatta was held on Easter Monday. Iat was an invitation event for new starters and Weybridge, Burway, Walbrook as well as Staines put in entries. Staines had three wins, namely J15 1X Tom Ryan, J10 1X Johnny Pettit and WJ13 1X Meg Williamson. Meg was on the water all day with a total of eight races and a well deserved medal was presented by the president of Weybridge Rowing Club. Also what a shock, remember Ian Stagg. He is back from Canada for three weeks as his father is seriously ill. For those that remember, Bill Stagg coached our famous junior squad of the mid eighties.

29th March 2005 Social Secretaries, Dom South and Bonny Howes write ----- A reminder to all that the ticket application and payment deadline for the annual dinner, to be held this year at the club, is this Thursday 31st March. You can sign up using this link. It is vital we get no surprises nearer the time as the number of confirmed attendees affects the size of marquee , the number of tables and chairs we hire and perhaps most importantly the amount of booze we buy in! Thanks very much, Bonny and Dom.

29th March 2005 Following yesterday's Weybridge Junior New Starters Regatta, Jim Pettitt has emailed a Kodak Easy Share Gallery website link where 47 photographs of the rowing can be seen. It seems that Jim has requested that everyone visiting must be a member of Ofoto which is free so, until he changes his preferences, you need to spend a minute to join.

25th March 2005 Liz ans Ali Lake write ----- Hello happy rowers! Just a quick note to let you all know that we are placing another kit order on Tuesday 29th March. Get in quick with your summer kit, if the winter orders are anything to go by, if you order now it should be with you mid summer!! (see Kit Page). We have hopefully sorted out our problems we have been having with our kit suppliers and should be able to deliver before the winter sets in again! Thanks Liz and Ali.

24th March 2005 Peter Smith advises ----- Please see draw and start order from Weybridge Junior New Starters Regatta which takes place at Cowey Sale, Walton on Easter Monday. Staines have several crews competing.

24th March 2005 Steve Ballantine sends this request from David Shove (Hon Sec Remenham Club) ----- Attached please find a poster for the Remenham Dinner, which is at Thames RC on 29th April.

23rd March 2005 Terry Moore sends a brief reminder that the SAR meeting is at 8pm tonight – so lets not have too many excuses please.

21st March 2005 Steve Ballantine submits a few photos that were taken at Saturday's HORR by Michelle O'Riordan. See Photographs Page. Also see the commercial photos from both the weekends heads at the following links - Chris Parry, Natures Images, Jet Photographic and Bigblade.

21st March 2005 Rob Oades (Snr) writes ----- I have just successfully completed the two day RYA level 2 powerboat course at Longridge, Marlow. This will allow me to be a part of the on-water team at this years Rowing World Cup and next years Rowing World Championships, to be held at Dorney. The training will also help SBC in making me a more able driver of our club launch. The course provides the skills and background knowledge needed by a competent powerboat driver. I would recommend the course to anyone who wants to improve their launch driving skills.
This means that the club will be providing at least three members of the on-water team for Dorney in May - myself, Jeremy Pollen and Peter "Smiffy" Smith. We will be joined by all the Juniors who completed the ARA Junior Officials Course - all have been selected to help at the World Cup. All in all Staines Boat Club will be very well represented by volunteers at these World Rowing Events.
The next time you are sat in one of the club's Janousek boats and thinking how has this wonderful craft been made - then the club has its own expert to help you. Rob Oades (Jnr) has just finnished two weeks work experience at the Janousek factory in West Byfleet. Rob worked on manufacturing singles, doubles, fours and eights, using both Janousek and Stampfli designs. Many thanks to all at Janousek who made Rob welcome.

20th March 2005 The Vesta Veterans Head of the River took place today over 4¼ miles on the ebb tide from the Mortlake to Putney in which Staines entered 2 crews. The results are Staines (Tollett) Vet C start 51st finish 48th (13th of 28) 21 mins 29.96 secs and and Staines (Carey) Vet C start 55th finish 40th (10th of 28) 21 mins 21.47 secs. Thanks go to our hosts, Putney Town RC, who kindly allowed us to boat from their club and also provided an excellent cooked breakfast for us all. Full results are available on the official website.

19th March 2005 The Head of the River Race took place today from Mortlake to Putney. There were 2 Staines senior men's crews racing. The results are Staines 1 (S3) Start 184 Finish 214 (44th of 90) 20 mins 26.94 secs and Staines 2 (S3) Start 261 Finish 280 (64th of 90) 20 mins 56.32 secs. Full results are available on the official website.

19th March 2005 For those of you taking photos at the HORRs this weekend, please take note of the following message taken from the Photographs Page. ----- If you wish to add any of your photographs to this site for others to enjoy please READ THIS FIRST. If for some reason you cannot publish them yourself then please reduce them to a size of 640x480 pixels at a resolution of 72 pixels in jpeg format.

18th March 2005 Jeremy Pollen writes ----- I am not sure if many members are aware but Ted had his bike stolen from his flat a few days ago. He was very upset about this and as this is his main means of transport he has been quite lost without it. Would it be possible to post a note on the website to let everybody know that we are holding a collection for him to enable him to buy a new one. Anyone who would like to contribute can see either Jeremy, Pete or Roy Frost at the weekend.

18th March 2005 The Thames Regional Rowing Council has issued advice to all crews training for and racing in the both Heads of the River this weekend. See the full document here.

17th March 2005 For those racing this weekend in the HORR on Saturday or VHORR on Sunday, their respective websites show some important safety instructions, general rules and maps that you should all be aware of.

16th March 2005 A timely reminder, now that we are well into the head season, of what coxswains shouldn't say from the Rice University website in Texas.

15th March 2005 Craig Twaddle writes ----- Just to say thanks to the 93 people who have already renewed their membership and to remind the 73 people who haven't that renewals are due by the end of March. Most of the crews for the HORR and Vets Head this weekend have renewed and so are eligible to race but there are still a few stragglers - YOU MUST RENEW BY FRIDAY 18TH MARCH. If you are NOT renewing your membership then can you let me know so that I can update the database.

15th March 2005 The Weybridge RC website reports ----- Shepperton Lock is meant to re-open this coming weekend (19th March), which will herald the return of the cruisers. On the up-side, the fishing closed-season starts on Wednesday (16th March), so there will be no anglers to avoid until June.

15th March 2005 There are several companies selling photos from the Schools Head and WEHORR. Try Natures Images, Jet Photographic and Bigblade.

14th March 2005 Rob Oades writes regarding the Junior Officials Course - Dorney Lake, 12th March 2005 ----- Another two Juniors from Staines Boat Club attended the Junior Officials Course for the up and coming World Cup and World Championships. Thomas Oades and Andrew Frost attended the 1 day course at Dorney Lake on Saturday 12th March. They learnt boat marshalling and umpiring techniques, how to complete a pre race boat safety check and how to use a two-way radio and loud hailer. SBC now has eleven juniors who have completed the course so the club should be well represented with volunteers at the World Cup to be held in May.

13th March 2005 Kingston Head took place yesterday with 3 Staines crews and 1 SWPS crew competing. Ian Grant sends this report on behalf of the men's squad ----- Some positive results from the S3 crews racing at Kingston. Staines A, starting off amongst some S2 crews, suffered a slight false start after an incident with a crew further up caused them to stop before the start. Once started again, there were some very big efforts from the entire crew over the whole course and managing to hold off a strong S2 crew until the bridge to finish 3rd/9 in behind London and IC in 17:53:4 and 19th overall. Staines B put in another big effort, despite not having as much time together on the water, to finish 8th/9 in 18:43:5. Another 'part time' Men's squad member, John F, was spotted in the Army S1 crew and finished 4th overall.
Steve Tassell reports ----- The women had a "bad day at the office" at Kingston Head with a Kingston men's novice eight being the main culprit for this dark cloud. The girls were tracking Southampton University -fastest women's eight of the day- and closed the gap in the first half of the race, however coming up to Kingston bridge the men's crew decided the only way they were going to stop the girls was to crash into them! Fortunately no one was seriously hurt and after a fair degree of tooing and froing the crews unlocked and Staines restarted. Despite best efforts to regain lost ground the damage had already been done. It's a shame that the girls last head race of the season should end like this but it has only mildly dampened what has been a superb head season for the squad and all bodes well for the regatta season.
The Sir William Perkins's School WJ14x+ also had a good race finishing 5th of 12 in their division in a time of 23:14.2. Full results can be found on the official website. See Photographs Page.

4th February 2005 Membership Secretary, Craig Twaddle writes ----- It's that time of year again - membership renewals! Please see the Membership Page for details for 2005/06. Please note that the committee has increased some of the fees this year but that we still have some of the lowest fees in the area. Renewal packs will be mailed to members in the next couple of weeks and it would be appreciated if you could return completed forms to me, along with the appropriate payment, as soon as possible (END OF MARCH AT THE LATEST). Please note that rowers competing in head races during March MUST renew beforehand. Many thanks!

4th February 2005 Adrian Tollett emails ----- I find that I am unable to visit SBC Latest News using my Vodafone GPRS card because Vodafone Content Control has blocked it until I can prove that I'm 18 or over. What am I missing and do you think they'd accept my ARA card as proof ? Just as well I didn't try using my council computer, or I'd be hauled before the Standards Board for England on a charge of contravening the Code of Conduct for Councillors ...

4th February 2005 Robin Dunlop writes, forwarding this email ----- Win a Rowperfect -- Tideway Scullers School is running a raffle to raise money for their new boathouse. Details on www.tidewayscullers.com Second prize is a new Rowperfect….. First prize is a custom built Filippi single scull. If you are able to circulate this note as widely as possible around your club, rowing friends and family, it would be appreciated. Print it out for the club notice board. The draw is 25 February, 2005. Rebecca Caroe, Rowperfect UK Limited www.rowperfect.co.uk 07970 734330

3rd February 2005 Please remember that Don Moore is arranging a charity row in the Elmsleigh Centre this Sunday Feb 6th from 11-30 till 2-30pm (see flyer). Anyone who hasn't offered to help and is willing to spare a little time should contact Don as soon as possible.

2nd February 2005 The Tideway Slug has added an article referring to Spelthorne Council's Licencing Laws and particularly the new changes to them. There is also a link to the Spelthorne Licencing Policy page which of course will cover changes affecting Staines Boat Club.

2nd February 2005 From the Thames Regional Rowing Council website ----- Junior Officals Programme 2005 - Are you aged 13 to 15 years, living in the Thames Region and would like to help at the Rowing World Cup taking place at Dorney Lake, Eton taking place in May this year? See here for details.

1st February 2005 The draw and details for Henley Fours Head have now been published on the Henley RC website. The race which takes place this Saturday 5th January has several Staines crews competing.

29th January 2005 Hampton Head took place today with one Sir William Perkins's School crew competing. The J14 coxed quad finished 6th of 15 in their division in a time of 10 mins 58.9 secs beating several of their local school rivals on the way. The full results will be available shortly from the Hampton School website.

28th January 2005 Our Captain, Steve Ballantine advises ----- Dear all, I have received a letter from the residents of Riverside Drive, they have asked if we can park in our own car park whenever able which I appreciate is not always possible but I'm sure we can make an effort to squeeze more cars in and stay on good terms with our neighbours. It should be remembered that it is a private road and we don't want to get into a debate over who is entitled to whatever. A radical idea I know, many of us live close enough to walk and cycle, what a cracking way to warm-up and down before and after an outing. Thanks in advance for your cooperation SteveB :o)PS - It's not a race track either!

28th January 2005 For those of you interested in volunteering to help at the August 2006 World Rowing Championships and mixing with the superstars, you can register your interest on the official website. The event will take place at Dorney Lake from the 20th - 27th August 2006.

27th January 2005 Rob Oades writes to advise that the results of last weekend's Oarsmen's Cross Country race have finally been published on the TWBSBC website. The fastest Staines member was J16 competitor, Rob Oades in 26th place, immediately followed by John Lusty who at 35 years his senior, entered the Vet D category. Rob adds that the J16 men just missed out on the team event, being pipped by Windsor Boys. The J16 women also came second in their team event. Well done to all those that took part.

27th January 2005 Senior squad member, Dean Craven, writes ----- Shameless Advertisement of details of stunning Italian hideaway (where I stayed over Christmas) 'Agriturismo' of Uni friend Rodney Lokaj, hidden away in Umbria, jaw-droppingingly (no really!!!) stunning retreat type villa. Conveniently close to Spoleto during the 'Feste del due monde'... check it out www.icerri.it. Rowers (by default of being associated with me), so I'm told, should be able to negotiate some form of discount too. Hope this is possible? Dean

26th January 2005 Too many women at Staines or perhaps not enough? See the Cambridge solution - Sell them on Ebay!!!

26th January 2005 Jules Reichel emails ----- To all women! We are pleased to confirm our rowing camp 2005 has been organised! It will be held on Saturday 2nd April and Sunday 3rd April. We are looking forward to welcoming at least one guest speaker and possibly a technical session to be held during the day. In the evening we will be having an eat in meal at the club, with shenanigans to be had in town thereafter. Any interest please register with Jules by 4th February, thanks, Jules

26th January 2005 Rob Oades submits some photos given by Emma Corless and taken at the Remenham Challenge and Oarsmen's Cross Country. See Photographs Page.

25th January 2005 Entries are now being accepted for the 2005 'The Head of the River Race' which will be rowed from Mortlake to Putney on Saturday 19th March 2005 at 10.00 a.m.. Entries will be taken with the ARA's new OARA system. See the official website for more details.

25th January 2005 Liz and Ali Lake will be making their next order for the 2005 Staines Boat Club rowing kit shortly. They ask that you look at the Kit Page and order form which gives details of all the items you can buy and note that the closing date for this order is Saturday January 29th so please get your orders in now!

24th January 2005 Robin Dunlop emails ----- For those of you who enjoyed the 'Healing Hands' of Rob Fenton trainee Sports Massage Therapist at the weekend please spread the word, Rob is willing to come down every Sat or Sun for 2hrs so long as we USE him. It's free but a small donation would be accepted given a 20min massage is apprx.£35 this is an offer not to be refused! Sessions start 10am book early with me.

24th January 2005 Duncan Speight writes with details of this house to be let ----- This is Tim Akroyd's place in Staines (I think it's the summer residence!). 34 Bremer Road, Staines. - Two bedroom end of terrace Victorian cottage. - Easy access to motorways and walking distance to station. - Rent per month £775. - Agent details: Contact Michael Clarke on 01784 454915.

24th January 2005 Craig Twaddle writes with some great news in an email from Mark Cashen ----- Siu and I became proud parents at 5:45am today (23rd Jan) with the birth of Cameron James Christopher. Weighing in at a healthy 6lbs 15oz, both Mum and son are somewhat tired but otherwise in gorgeous shape.

24th January 2005 Russell Peacock has submitted a few photos taken at last Saturday's Oarsmen's Cross Country Run in Windsor Great Park where Staines' junior, Michael Lusty won his J12 category. Results will be available in due course from the TWBSBC website. See Photographs Page.

22nd January 2005 Our President, Don Moore writes to say that Staines Boat Club are hoping to arrange a charity row in the Elmsleigh Centre on Sunday Feb 6th from 11-30 till 2-30pm (see flyer). 'We will confirm that it is definitely to take place at the committee meeting on the 1st Feb. We are doing this in conjunction with Egham Leisure Centre Mountaineering Club who are organising an aerobathon on the Saturday. I need volunteers to help take ergo's to the centre and would appreciate anyone who can help by emailing me as soon as possible. Many thanks, Don.'

20th January 2005 Quiz Night CANCELLED --- Dom South advises -- Apologies for late notice. Tonight's quiz night has had to be cancelled due to personal reasons. Our quiz master was unable to make the night and hopes to re-arrange for as soon as possible. Apologies for any inconvenience this may have caused.

20th January 2005 Don't forget the first SBC quiz night of 2005 will take place tonight from 8pm. There will be curry & prizes for your enjoyment. Entry £5 per person with food, £2 without. A great night was had by all at the last quiz, so please come and enjoy some fun with us again. Please confirm attendance to Bon and Dom

20th January 2005 Social Secretaries, Dom South & Bonny Howes write ----- Here is an opportunity not to be missed :drinks , dancing, fun and no Cheekies! A group will be going to Windsor for some drinks on Friday night - all are invited to come along. Meet at Staines Station at 7pm to catch 19:08 train. (Or meet at Brownes in Windsor from 7:30pm onwards). For the Cheekies old school, there is a "Kiss Classics" night at Liquid on Friday so get a late pass for the evening if you can. Have a good night Bon & Dom

19th January 2005 The 2006 World Rowing Championships which takes place over the 20th – 27th August 2006 at Dorney Lake now has a new website with an introduction written by the Honorary President, Sir Steve Redgrave CBE.

18th January 2005 Robin Dunlop writes ----- To all Squads -- Rob Fenton a colleague of Julia's is a trainee sports massage therapist, he will be attending the club, if required, between 10 - 12pm this Saturday and any following Sat/Sun if we can utilise him. Please email me if you would like a deep muscle massage and what eg. shoulders, legs etc and we will book you in. Available slots are 10.20, 10.40, 11, 11.20. A 'quiet' area away from others will be set up. Although this may compromise your second outing can I urge you to utilise this facility so Rob returns and helps us out again. And its FREE, although a small donation to assist Rob in his training would be much obliged. This is open to ALL men and women squads and definitely the VETS! It will help muscle maintainance and recovery and Rob can assist in flexibility issues and any aches and pains in general. Robin

17th January 2005 Diane Gill advises ----- The Committee have agreed that we need a Cleaning Rota for the Club to include all Squads (Veterans, Senior Squads, Juniors and Sir William Perkins's School). It is important that we do look after our Club, particularly when you look at how well kept other Clubs are! I will bring hard copies down to the Club and put them up or you can view and print it here. Please take some time to have a look. There should always be enough people from the relevant Squad to do the allocated weekend, even if racing does take place that weekend. Please can you ensure that your Squad actually does carry out cleaning on the designated days and do not just ignore this. If enough people are involved, then it should take less than 30 minutes. Due to racing at Remenham, it is weekly for the first two weeks and fortnightly thereafter. If anyone has any concerns or issues with this, please raise them with your Squad Coordinator. Thank you all in advance. Diane

16th January 2005 Good weather favoured Twickenham Rowing Club today as hosts of the 2005 Remenham Challenge. Of the 55 boats racing, Staines entered 8 boats comprising juniors, veterans, mens and womens crews, The fastest Staines crew home was Staines 1 (mens intermediate) in a time of 12 mins 9 secs followed by Staines 4 (vets) in a time of 12 mins 51 secs. Steve Tassell writes ----- Staines women were out in force, some good results all round with particular note to the Novice 'A' boat that won Novice eights. They beat Thames (preventing a clean sweep) by one second taking the pennant. The Intermediate crew also had a solid row finishing 8th equal and only 40 seconds off the lead boat. The beginners also raced at Remenham, this being the first ever race for most of them, so a good chance to get out and find out what racing is all about! Our thanks go to Twickenham for their organisation, good food and hospitality. See the full results on the Twickenham website.

14th January 2005 Craig Twaddle advises that the river may be a little quieter after reading the following on the Weybridge RC website. The rowing fraternity will be delighted to know that Shepperton Lock is closed for the next 2 months for refurbishment. This should reduce the cruiser traffic on our reach to almost nil.

12th January 2005 Craig Twaddle advises that the committee meeting last night announced that Mark Ansley-Watson is our new Safety Advisor. He can be contacted by email: markwat924@aol.com or by telephone: 07818 062942

11th January 2005 Bonny Homes and Dom South write confirming that the first SBC quiz night of 2005 will take place on Thursday 20th January. There will be a curry & prizes on the night. Entry £5 per person with food, £2 without. A great night was had by all at the last quiz, so please come and enjoy some fun with us again. Thanks Please confirm attendance to Bon and Dom

10th January 2005 Roger Pailes advises that he is arranging Staines entries for The 28th Thames Valley Oarsmen's Cross Country Race, organised by the The Windsor Boys' School Boat Club, which takes place at 2.20pm on Saturday 22nd January 2005. The race will be held over approx. three and a half undulating miles in the historic Windsor Great Park, (by kind permission of the Crown Estate Office). Please telephone Roger on 01784 457343 to discuss your entry and see the TWBSBC website for full details.

9th January 2005 For safety when boating, please leave your shoes and trainers on the grass and not on the landing stage. This not only will prevent members from tripping but will also prevent the loss of shoes being kicked accidentally into the water and lost as one unlucky person found out recently!

7th January 2005 Dominic South writes ----- As planned, we will be going for a meal at the Outback Steak House on Thursday evening (13th January) at 8:30pm. Everyone is welcome but please e-mail me on dominic_south@unitedbiscuits.com so that I can book table before Wednesday. Outback have offered us a discounted menu (see attached), some free starters, a free first drink in return for individual e-mail addresses. Let's keep the good club spirit going and have a good night out + don't forget, it's an excuse to get some protein in straight after doing your normal Thursday night training!! Let me know if you're coming....

7th January 2005 The initial information regarding the Remenham Challenge Head race that takes place on Sunday 16th January 2005 has been released. Click here to view and print the letter sent out to Club Captains by Jemma Fearnside-Kittoe on behalf of Remenham Club. Also see Twickenham RC's website here.

6th January 2005 There appears to be some LED boat lights missing from the storeroom. Will anyone using lights return them as soon as they have been finished with and not leave them on boats, in cars etc.

5th January 2005 Diane Gill writes with an unusual request ----- Does anyone know of a good plumber in the Egham area? Not being very local I don't know who to use. If so, please could you email me their details to demy@orange.net Thank you, Di

5th January 2005 The ARA has now published the 2005/2006 rowing calendar on it's website here.

4th January 2005 For your information this web site had a staggering total of 40,682 visitors in the year 2004 which represents and increase of 52% over the 2003 total of 26,738. (The 2002 total was 15246). We have an average in excess of 100 visitors a day. Please note that these figures represent visitors and not 'hits' so people clicking the refresh button for example are only counted once.

3rd January 2005 There have been several reports recently about the difficulty of opening the back door of the clubhouse. Please note that once the correct number has been entered in to the combination lock the handle must be turned clockwise to open the door. Our Clubhouse Officer, John Lusty, is aware of the situation and has promised to repair it shortly.

2nd January 2005 Our Secretary, Murray Litvak advises that the committee meeting scheduled for next Tuesday has been postponed and will now take place on Tuesday 11th January.

1st January 2005 Liz Bernard, Staines BC member and SWPS teacher writes regarding the Boxing Day tsunami ----- Just to let you know that I am back safely in England (from Sri Lanka). Take a little time to read Tammy's (my daughter) account of our experience. It was certainly a Christmas we will never forget!

1st January 2005 A happy New Year to all from Staines Boat Club.

1st January 2005 Duncan Speight and Jodi Davis celebrated their return from their year long around the world trip yesterday by hosting the well attended New Year's Eve party in the clubhouse. See photo.

1st January 2005 You may have noticed that several parts of this website have been inaccessible for a couple of days (e.g. photographs). This is due to the server that hosts this part of the site failing and is entirely beyond my control. Normal service will resume as soon as possible.

29th December 2004 Duncan Speight writes from Kathmandu to say that he has made the final update to the latest news on his and Jodi's's web site. The news this time is of mountains, rope, porridge and snot! Remember that they are flying back to England over the next couple of days and are having a New Year's Eve party in the clubhouse where all members and friends are welcome to celebrate their return.

26th December 2004 The annual Boxing Day Race against Burway Rowing Club took place today in glorious sunshine. The Staines crew took an early lead and settled into the race to gain a comfortable win. Each crew was composed in the same format as last year, namely 2x juniors, 2x senior men, 2x Vets and 2x senior women. Unfortunately one of the Burway women fell sick and could not row so Staines' Jackie Hawkins kindly stepped in to help out. See Photographs Page.

26th December 2004 Congratulations to Stuart and Jo-Anne Simms who have a new baby for Christmas. Named Madeline Sarah Bridge Simms, she was born on Monday 20th December and weighed 6lbs 6oz. Stuart says "Mother and baby are doing great".

24th December 2004 Staines Boat Club would like to wish all its members, friends and supporters a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

24th December 2004 All members are reminded that the annual Boxing day contest against Burway Rowing Club takes place at 11.00 - 11.30am. This years race is at Staines BC. Everyone is welcome to come along and support the club.

22nd December 2004 Katy Burke submits this link for photographs taken at the SBC Christmas Party. The link has also been added to the Xmas lunch photographs page.

22nd December 2004 Kit Officers, Liz and Ali Lake write -- There have been a couple of incidences where kit money has been given straight to the treasurer or to other committee members. Please ensure you hand it to either Liz or Ali, as we can then account for it and mark on our records that you have paid. If you do not hand it to one of us, we will continue to chase you for payment! If we are not around, please either leave the money in the trays in the boat club marked clearly Liz and Ali, or contact one of us (contact details on 'Contact Us' page) to arrange an exchange. Thank you.

20th December 2004 Short of ideas for last minute Christmas presents for your rowing friends? Try the FISA website suggestions which include a DVD of the Athens Olympic Regatta and a FISA cap. While you are on the FISA site then don't forget to enter the Prize Draw before the closing date of the 31st December - Win two dream tickets to next year's 2005 BearingPoint Rowing World Cup regatta in Lucerne as special guests of Worldrowing.com.

19th December 2004 The brisk winds this morning were troubling the swans on the SBC stretch of the Thames. In particular, the railway bridge became a particularly difficult obstacle for one individual, whose flight came to an abrupt end when the flat metal side at the top of the bridge interrupted his path. The unfortunate bird then tumbled down into the river and scrambled out, no doubt with a headache, on to the boat club lawn to recover.

17th December 2004 Steve Ballantine writes ----- The Boxing Day race for the Edward Clarke Trophy will take place at Staines 11:00 to 11:30am following the same crew format of last year 2x Jnr 2x Senior men 2x Vets & 2x senior women. Please make sure the event is well supported.

17th December 2004 Tomorrow is the last day to order your kit for this year. Please fill in the Kit Form on the Kit Page now.

17th December 2004 The British Airways Rowing Section Christmas Dinner took place last evening at Peter's Palace in Woking. Sixteen guests enjoyed the excellent Chinese food and good company.

15th December 2004 A reminder that tonight is the last gym training session for this year at Magna Carta School. Everyone is welcome down at 6.45pm. It will restart next year on 5th January 2005 (Wed) and will finish on 23rd March 2005 (Wed).

14th December 2004 Jackie Hawkins emails ----- I found a Staines Boat Club Calendar in the George Pub Staines Sunday pm. (It was actually found in the men's toilets???!!!!) anyone lost one? I will bring it along to the club house at the weekend.

13th December 2004 Our two new kit officers, Liz and Ali Lake are delighted to announce that the 2005 Staines Boat Club rowing kit is now available to order. They ask that you look at the Kit Page and order form which gives details of all the items you can buy along with images of some of the customised clothing (drawn by Liz). Please note that the closing date for the first order is Dec 18th so please get your orders in now! The link for the Kit Page will remain in the list on the left of this page should you wish to order in the future.

13th December 2004 Suzanne Reng emails ----- Here is a PDF file (1Mb) of the complete 2005 Calendar. We have raised £660 so far which is excellent - so thank you everyone for your support. If anyone else would like to buy one, then Terry has some behind the bar or just ask me if you see me around the club. I will bring copies of all the other photos taken this weekend for you to order as well. PS I left a bottle of Merlot at the club (my raffle prize) if anyone found it please let me know! Thanks Suzanne

13th December 2004 Paul Goldswain sends these atmospheric photographs 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 of Staines and SWPS crews in a foggy Penton Hook Lock on Saturday in preparation for Burway Small Boats Head which was unfortunately cancelled due to the weather conditions. Paul has also sent some rowing photos of yesterday's Plum Pudding Races whis have been added to page 3 of the photos. See Photographs Page.

13th December 2004 Craig Twaddle writes ----- Just a reminder that Chiropracter Russell Dean and Physiotherapist Anthony Imms from the Windsor Remedy Centre will visit SBC on the evening of Thursday 16th December. They will do an informal observation of training and will be available to discuss spinal and sporting injuries, and their prevention. They aim to be at the club from around 6.00pm onwards. Afterwards, Jules Reichel will be serving pasta and dessert for dinner, and so if you want fed then please sign in by lunchtime on Wednesday. Jules adds ... if its not an assessment of your ergo technique and what you might be doing to your back with it that gets you to the club, the PASTA DINNER might...? Big Yummy portions awaiting you!

12th December 2004 Great fun was had today during the Plum Pudding Races and Xmas Lunch. The day was organised by Dom South & Bonny Howes and credit must be given to them and their team of helpers behind the bar, in the kitchen and on the river, that made the day such a success. Suzanne Reng has done a fantastic job of arranging the Staines BC 2005 Calendars which went on sale today and were selling like hot cakes! For those that missed the Xmas fayre but still want to buy a calendar then contact Suzanne. The cost is £7.50 for one or two for £10. See Photographs Page for pics of the day.

10th December 2004 The ARA website has posted the following news today ----- 'Tideway Small Boats Head not endorsed by Thames RRC' -- The Thames Regional Rowing Council have advised the ARA that the Tideway Small Boats Head will not take place on their advertised date of Saturday 18 December.

9th December 2004 Social Secretaries, Dom South & Bonny Howes write ----- Dear all, please see the Plum Puddings Draw. Please note:
- Division one racing will start at 9am
- Division two racing will start at 10:30am
- Lunch will be serve from 12:30pm.....
- The draw is final (and randomly selected)
- There will be a handicap system to make all crews even (as always) - Remember it's all for fun!!! (and plum puddings)
- If you have raffle prizes to donate, please bring them along on the day - As normal, changes to crews will only be possible if a crew member is not available to row on the day We look forward to seeing you all at the weekend. (Saturday night for the Xmas party and Sunday for the racing). Finally, be patient with the chef's who are catering for a large number of us on Sunday - they will be doing their very capable best to keep everyone happy and full!! Dom & Bonny

9th December 2004 Membership Secretary, Craig Twaddle advises ----- We welcome the following new members who were elected at the recent committee meeting - Rosie Andrews, Chris Brett, Richard Brittlebank, Rachel Lafbery, Catherine Lake, Gary Lovejoy, Suzanne McKenner, Nikki Mellor, Tom Morrison, Jonathon Pettitt, Katie Samways, Bridget Sinclair, Susan Meacock-Fletcher, Matthew Webb, Samantha White, and also from Sir William Perkins School - Victoria Avery, Jessica Stoate, Helen Brokenshire, Emily Baker, Christina Ball, Alice Cox, Roberta Fagent.

9th December 2004 A reminder that the ARA demonstrates their new Online entry system at Dorney Lake tonight. The ARA is developing a new online entry system which will be offered to all competitions for use from January 2005. The system was piloted as the entry system for the Fours Head in November and used by all clubs entered in the event. The OARA system is now being offered to all competition organisers for use from the 17 January 2005. Tim Page, the ARA Information Projects Officer will be giving a demonstration of the system and hosting a question and answer session at Dorney Lake on the 9th December at 7.30 pm.

8th December 2004 Social Secretaries, Dom South and Bonny Howes write ----- Dear all, looking forward to seeing all those at the weekend that have entered the plum puddings races. Loads of you have entered so it promises to be great fun!! Please remember that you are all are welcome to come along to the Xmas Disco Party at the boat club the night before (THIS SATURDAY NIGHT). We have a late bar, disco booked and now just need your company / support from 7pm onwards at the boat club!! Hope to see you all on Saturday night - and then Sunday morning too. the draw will be made tonight at about 8pm in the Swan. This will be made available on this web site. Dom & Bonny

8th December 2004 Rachel Quarrell's excellent Rowing Service website has an interesting article headed 'FISA proposes flotation standard' which discusses proposals for the FISA Extraordinary Congress in January 2005 and the ongoing buoyancy argument in particular.

7th December 2004 Burway Small Boats Head takes place next Saturday 11th December. Several Staines and Sir William Perkins's School crews have entered in the 3 divisions at 11:30am, 1pm and 2:30pm. See the start list on the Burway website.

7th December 2004 An interesting snippet here from Weybridge RC's Caroline Turnbull from the newsgroup rec.sport.rowing ----- The Thames Regional Rowing Council now has two websites. The original www.thamesregion.rowing.org.uk developed and maintained by me free of charge, and a new one www.Thames-rrc.org which the Council commissioned from a professional web designer at considerable cost. No-one has ever criticised my website, so it is not clear why the Council decided to take this action. I have written to them to ask what it is that they don't like about my site and whether this is a reasonable use of the Council's funds, but have received no reply. Dear TTRC, please say something, even if it's only "Goodbye". Though a simple "Thank You" would be appreciated.Caroline PS. If you're wondering what the difference is, my site is the one without spelling mistakes.

7th December 2004 All committee members are reminded that the last committee meeting of this year takes place tonight in the clubhouse at 8.00pm.

7th December 2004 BigBlade Rowing Gallery sends this message ----- Photos from the 2004 Wallingford Head of the River are now posted on our website. Staines' crews' photos are indexed here. Best wishes, BigBlade.

6th December 2004 Luke Wilson emails regarding Wallingford Head ----- Many thanks to those Staines members providing the "roar" to the Brookes crew I was rowing in as we staggered over the finish yesterday! It helped an awful lot as it was the second division of the day and I only jumped into the crew at the last minute! Regards Luke

6th December 2004 Katy Burke has submitted 3 photos taken at yesterday's Wallingford Head. See Photographs Page.

6th December 2004 Those of you who have not booked your entry for the Plum Puddings race or reserved your Xmas lunch, please do so TODAY. Please enter online using this link or call Dom (07753 654 373) or Bonny (07801 679 615) by phone.

6th December 2004 The results of Wallingford Head that took place yesterday, have now been published here. The Staines results that show striking consistancy in the 2 WS3 crews are --
WS3 4+ joint 57th overall (equal 7th of 16) 221 Staines BC A 20:59
WS3 4+ joint 57th overall (equal 7th of 16) 235 Staines BC B 20:59
WNov 4+ 67th overall (2nd of 5) 241 Staines BC 21:58

6th December 2004 Adrian Tollett emails ----- Having been working away for a few weeks and therefore unavailable for midweek training and also not managing to keep up with the 'Latest News', I have been doing a bit of catching up and noted with concern that one member of the club had received a mild rebuke for competing for another organisation. I wondered whether I might be in worse danger for doing the same twice. News seems to have leaked out that I was spotted at the BIRC and Photodigital are displaying pictures of me in racing strip (Race 3 / Page 2 / Images 21 to 24). I have also just returned from Cambridge, where I was rowing in a Vet 'F' eight for the same outfit. The 'Billygoats' President's Eight' came 35th out of 40 in the Fairbairn Head in a time of 17:26, beating the slowest student crew by over a minute and proving that there is still life in the old Billygoat.

4th December 2004 Rob Oades reports from Walton Small Boats Head ----- The Juniors raced four doubles today at the Walton Small Boats Head. Rebecca Corless and Rachel Edwards came 6th in the WJ16 2x category, clocking a time of 13.00. Rob Oades and Nick Pollen came 3rd in the MJ15 2x event in a time of 11.24. Charlotte Morrison and Emma Parks came 2nd in the WJ15 2x - missing the pot by 4 seconds (12.24). But the junior result of the day goes to the MJ12 crew of Andrew Frost and Thomas Oades who came 1st in an impressive time of 13.24, over 30 seconds ahead of the second placed crew. This time would have also won the MJ13 catagory. Well done to all crew's and thanks to Ted, Smiffy, Jeremy, Bob the Dog and all supporting parents.
Ian Grant adds the following regarding the men's squad ----- Some good racing results from Walton on Saturday from the some of the mens squad. In the Novice sculls, Ian G 8th/37 in 11:53, Max S 14th/37 in 12:01, Mark AW 23rd/37 in 12:12 and Fikret O finished 26th/37 in 12:17. At S4 Helge finished 12/13 12:24. Phil AW finished 3/3 in 13:18 at MVE and 3/3 in 13:29 in MVD. In the coxless Pairs Dean C/Terry M finished 4/8 in 11:33 and Nick H/Dom S finished 8/8 in 13:00 at MS4. At MS2 Nick H/Robin D finished 26/29 in 11:44. In the double sculls Steve B/Ian G finished 2/16 in 10:47 at MN, Tom G/Helge N finished 6/9 in 11:06, Robb W/Julian B finished 8/10 in 11:43. Some promising results and hopefully a few pots from Burway on next saturday. Full results can be found on the Walton website.

3rd December 2004 Steve Tassell writes ----- Wallingford Head takes place this Sunday with three Staines Women’s crews racing. Please see the start list.

3rd December 2004 All crews wishing to enter Burway Small Boats Head which takes place on Saturday 11th December are reminded that entries close this Sunday 5th December at 2.00 pm. Full details are on the Burway website.

3rd December 2004 The The Thames Regional Rowing Council website reports ----- The ARA demonstrates their new Online entry system at Dorney Lake on 9 December 2004. The ARA is developing a new online entry system which will be offered to all competitions for use from January 2005. The system was piloted as the entry system for the Fours Head in November and used by all clubs entered in the event. The OARA system is now being offered to all competition organisers for use from the 17 January 2005. Tim Page, the ARA Information Projects Officer will be giving a demonstration of the system and hosting a question and answer session at Dorney Lake on the 9th December at 7.30 pm.

3rd December 2004 Walton Small Boats Head 2004 takes place tomorrow, Saturday 4th December. The race is held in four sections, at 10.00, 11.30, 13.00 and 14.30. with several Staines crews competing. See the official website for the start order.

2nd December 2004 Social Secretary, Dom South advises ----- Christmas is coming and with it comes the chance to win a plum pudding!!!! (see poster) (as well as have a great party / disco the night before and Xmas lunch after the races). Please enter online using this link or call myself (07753 654 373) or Bonny (07801 679 615) by phone. Details: - Plum Pudding race on 12th December '04. - Enter before MONDAY 6th December. - Full price is £6 per person for entry and lunch (lunch only = £4) - Estimated Start Times: Division 1 is 8:30am, Division 2 is 10:30am, Lunch 12:30pm - We need volunteers / raffle prizes on the day so fill in the box on the form if you can lend a hand with anything DON'T FORGET THE Christmas Party / Disco on Sat 11th December from 7pm (late bar) (see poster). Let's make this years Christmas Lunch & Plum Puddings Races as big a success as last year!!

1st December 2004 Suzanne Reng writes ----- The Staines BC 2005 Calendars will be ready for sale on the 12th December, during and after the Plum Puddings race. Costs will be £7.50 for one and two for £10. We've used a great mix of photo's to try and include as many people from the club as possible. I will bring copies of all the images taken but not used and these can be purchased separately from Guy - £2.50 for a 6 x 4 and £7 for an A4. Look forward to seeing the money roll in! Here's a taster to whet your appetites.

1st December 2004 Clubhouse Officer, John Lusty confirms that the boiler has now been repaired by the plumber so we can all once again enjoy hot showers after rowing.

29th November 2004 There is a TRRC seminar being held this Wednesday 1 December entitled Rigging by Rosie Mayglothling. 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 November 2004 For those of you more interested in more leisurely rowing, the following can be found on the The Thames Regional Rowing Council website. ----- FISA Tour 2005 -- The FISA Recreational Rowing Tour is being organised by the Netherlands between 18th and 26th June 2005. The route is from Rotterdam to Amsterdam via Leiden and The Hague and will be rowed in Wherries. Participants come from all over the world - typically about 15 countries - and the social programme is at least as important as the rowing! Note that applications must be received by 1st February, so there's no time to lose!

28th November 2004 The Hampton Small Boats Head took place yesterday with 3 Sir William Perkins's School boats competing. Their provisional results are ---
WJ15 4x+ Sir William Perkins A 11:32.9 (13th of 14)
WJ15 2x Sir William Perkins Bishop/Robinson 11:35.0 (14th of 21)
WJ15 1x Sir William Perkins Martin 11:45.6 (7th of 32)
Full provisional results are on David Biddulph's website and will be on the official website from tomorrow.

28th November 2004 Jules Reichel emails ----- To all squads - as you might have read we will have our friends from the Windsor Remedy Centre visiting on the 16th December. With an 18.30 start assessing our ergo techniques, we figured the visitors as well as the rowers might need a little PASTA DINNER before you go home that night! Make sure you come down and take advantage of Russell's (Chiropractor) and Anthony's (Physio) time and take some free advise on your physical moans and groans! Dinner will as always consist of PASTA and Dessert, please sign in by the 15.12.2004 lunchtime for food! Jules

26th November 2004 Bonny Howes reports ----- Thanks to everyone who entered and supported the Staines Boat Club quiz and chilli last night - it was really good fun and great to see the club house full of people on a weekday night! The quiz was hotly contested by all 10 teams but the eventual trivia kings were 'Universally Challenged' - Dom South, Nick Hadwen, Dave Dimes and Craig Twaddle, who all won vouchers to spend at the SBC bar. It would be great to see even more people at the next quiz , which takes place on Thursday 20th Jan 2005. Special thanks go to Katy Burke, Sarah Fudge, Ali Lake and Jules who did a great job cooking the chilli for 40 people, Dom Foley for finding Kate the quiz master, plus Bob the Dog for donating some prizes.

26th November 2004 For those Staines members who are interested in developing their coaching qualifications, The Thames Regional Rowing Council website states ----- There are still places available on the Silver Award course in Nottingham from 2nd - 6th January and there will be two Instructors Award courses in Thames Region early next year - at Eton Excelsior in January and Guildford in February, plus a course at Weybridge in April or May.

25th November 2004 Social Secretaries, Dom South & Bonny Howes advise ----- Here is the entry form for the Plum Pudding race on 12th December '04 (see poster). We would love to see as many members as possible (seniors, juniors, novices, veterans etc) taking part this year. - Please enter before Wed 8th December. - Full price is £6 per person to be paid on the day (includes Xmas lunch & entry fee(£4 for lunch only)) - The Christmas Lunch will take place after the race and will again be organised by some of Staines' best chefs. (sign up using the entry form above) - We need volunteers so fill in the box on the form if you can lend a hand with anything - If you have a prize to donate for the raffle, please contact either Dominic South or Bonny Howes with details - Also - please come along to the Christmas Party / Disco (see poster) on Sat 11th December from 7pm (late bar) Let's make this years Christmas Lunch & Plum Puddings Races as big a success as last year!!

25th November 2004 Social Secretaries, Dom South & Bonny Howes write ----- Come along to the boat club Xmas Party / Disco (see poster) on Saturday 11th December from 7pm - (late bar). We look forward to getting into the Xmas Spirit(s) and suffering bad heads the next day at the plum puddings races.

25th November 2004 Craig Twaddle advises ----- Chiropracter Russell Dean and Physiotherapist Anthony Imms from the Windsor Remedy Centre will visit Staines Boat Club on the evening of Thursday 16th December. They will do an informal observation of training and will be available to discuss spinal and sporting injuries, and their prevention. They aim to be at the club from around 6.00pm onwards.

23rd November 2004 Rachell Quarrell's New Rowing Information webpage advises ---- More than 350 pictures of the Fours Head up on the Connect2Image website (UK).

23rd November 2004 Eight members from the Staines men's squad entered the British Indoor Rowing Championships (BIRC) that took place last Sunday. Dean C @ Open Lwt, Joe W & Ian G @ Open BUSA, Mark AW & Dom S @ Lwt 30-34, Gary LJ & Nick H @ Lwt 35-39, Rob S @ Open 45-49. Full results and photos are now on the BIRC website.

22nd November 2004 Our current Captain, Steve Ballantine advises ----- A reminder to all, the weekend outing times are as follows: 8am to 10am, 10am to 12pm and 12pm onwards. Please ensure you are off the water at or before the given time The only exception to this is when you are using the same equipment for the next session (not you were late getting on the water). While I'm sending this message please also note, if you arrange to use a boat and don't turn up then don't expect priority in future this applies to all club boats.

22nd November 2004 Ex captain, Steve Smith writes ----- FREE ACCOMMODATION IN OZ!!!! As you know, Helen and I are getting married next Christmas. So that means that Staines is about to be descended upon by hoards of Aussies! So, Here’s the deal… my mum has asked if there is anyone out there that you know who would like to house swap next Christmas. We are looking for a 4+ bedroom house somewhere in the Staines area in exchange for an “ABSOLUTE BEACHFRONT!!!” 5 bedroom 2 story house in sunny Narrabeen (Sydney’s northern beaches). It would be for the 2 weeks over Christmas, but exact times could be adjusted to suit. If you know of anyone who would be interested, please contact me on 07958 508 564… Oh yeah, and we’ll leave the SURFBOARDS in the garage, the BARBIE on the balcony and some BEERS in the fridge for you! Cheers, Oz

22nd November 2004 Julian Blackman emails ----- "FOR SALE - MINI COOPER (1.6L, 110BHP) 03 REG. Excellent condition. Indi Blue with white roof & mirrors, Loads for extra's. OIRO £12,500. Call Julian on 07785 502 630 for more details or arrange viewing / test drive."

22nd November 2004 Where have all the boat ties gone? There are currently no ties at all in the cabinet where they are usually kept so tying a club boat on a trailer is impossible without buying your own ties. Presumably someone is 'looking after them' so whoever the culprit is, please return them to their rightful place this evening.

22nd November 2004 Hampton Small Boats Head takes place next Saturday 27th Novemer. It will be rowed in two divisions, starting at 10.30am and 2.00pm. The start list will be available shortly and will be published on the official website.

21st November 2004 From the ARA website ---- The ARA has created a series of posters outlining good water safety practice. These posters form a crucial part of the ARA’s strategy to inform and educate individuals about water safety. The posters cover checking equipment, reporting incidents and buoyancy. These are important areas but often don’t get the attention or the thought they deserve so the posters are designed to capture our attention using innovative photography and key messages.Clubs can download the posters (in .pdf) and print them out in any size or shape they wish.

20th November 2004 The final results of today's Scullers Head 2004 have now been published here. The results for the Staines scullers are as follows:
Finish 55th (3th of 6) 146 M Simpson Staines MS2Lwt 22 mins 33.17 secs
Finish 178th (22th of 55) 297 I Grant Staines MNov 23 mins 42.80 secs
Finish 253th (18th of 21) 250 H Neumeister Staines MS4 24 mins 18.79 secs
Finish 371th (9th of 10) 445 P Ansley-Watson Staines MVetE 26 mins 01.93 secs

20th November 2004 Duncan Speight writes from Kathmandu to say that he has again updated the latest news on her and Jodi's's web site. The news this time is of the India, camels and relaxing train journeys!

19th November 2004 My apologies for the delay in updating this website over the last couple of days. This was due to problems with the BT server which crashed my PC every time I tried to update the site. All fixed now I hope. Graham

19th November 2004 Take a look at the ARA website which has details of its new online survey ----- 'We aim to continually improve the products and services we provide to our members. To help us do this, please take a few minutes to complete our Online Survey... We value your opinion!' The ARA website also has details of the Thames Region AGM ----- 'Your chance to have your say about rowing in the Thames Region. The Thames Regional Rowing Council will hold its AGM and election of officers at London Rowing Club on 21 November 2004 at 3pm. The meeting will also discuss the Region’s draft Forward Plan for the next 4 years. If you are a club or regatta in the region then this is your opportunity to influence the development of rowing on the Thames.'

19th November 2004 Membership Secretary, Craig Twaddle advises ----- I've created the attached questionnaire for future active membership enquiries.This form can also be found on the Seniors Page.

18th November 2004 Friends of long time Staines member and coach of the the novice squad for many years, Roy Dauncey, will be pleased to know that he celebrated his 75th birthday last weekend. Here is a photograph of him with his birthday cake taken by his son and ex Staines coxswain Robert.

18th November 2004 Rob Oades emails ----- This is a link to a press release from Thamesmead School regarding Robert and Thomas's rowing success with the Junior Squad this year. This was picked up last week in the Surrey Herald (dated 11th November). Again good publicity for the Juniors and the Boat Club.

17th November 2004 Ali Lake writes ----- All of the sponsorship money from the Boston Marathon has now been collected and counted... Elaine, Clare Wood, Anne, Leanne, Liz, Claire Lovelady, Ali and Michelle managed to raise an impressive £1,607.20! This means we are donating £803.60 of that money to SBC. Thank you again to everyone who showed us support and again to Mike and Hayley for helping out on the day!

16th November 2004 Ian Grant writes ----- Would it be possible to put a note on the website to ask if evreyone who does a bit of coaching, from novices to junior/senior squads could take two minutes out of their time to fill out the questionaire at http://ig-design.tripod.com and mail it back to me at igrantsmiles@hotmail.com . It would be a great help to me for the research i'm currently doing as part of my final year project for my university degree. Thanks, Ian

15th November 2004 Suzanne Reng emails ----- Thanks to the Ladies, Vets and Juniors for your co-operation with the photographer on Saturday. Guy, will be down again this Saturday from 8.00am - mainly to photograph the men. He will also photograph anyone else out and about in kit. So Ladies, Vets and Juniors please wear your kit again on Saturday if you want to be in the photos. As well as taking pictures on the river, he will be taking pictures of us rigging boats, in the club house and in the boat house. So please be in kit even when faffing around out the front. Please can I have a volunteer, or a couple of volunteers from the Men's squad to drive the launch from 8.00am onwards? Email me at suzanne.reng@ntlworld.com. Last point, it was pretty cold last w/e - so I'm fine with people wearing a white long sleeved top under an all in one. Thanks Suzanne

14th November 2004 For those of you who don't keep up to date with the rowing newsgroup, rec.sport.rowing, there is an interesting thread started by Weybridge RC's Caroline Turnbull headed 'Bar Licensing for Sports Clubs' described in part as 'In case you haven't heard, our beloved Secretary of State for Culture Tessa Jowell is about to penalise sports clubs which derive income from bar profits by dramatically increasing licensing fees'. Certainly worth keeping an eye on!

13th November 2004 The Tiffin Small Boats Head took place today in bright sunshine. Several Staines crews took part including the ME 4- who were the third fastest four of the event. The Staines results are as follows ---
ME 4- (1st of 2) Staines BC A 18 mins 30.6 secs
MS3 4+ (3rd of 6) Staines BC B 20 mins 09.1 secs
MS3 4+ (5th of 6) Staines BC A 20 mins 24.7 secs
MS3 2x (2nd of 3) Staines BC A 20 mins 39.7 secs
MS3 1x (16th of 17) Staines BC Ozer 23 mins 16.8 secs
MS3 1x (17th of 17) Staines BC Somper 23 mins 22.7 secs
MS2 4- (4th of 4) Staines BC A 20 mins 05.3 secs
MS4 4+ (3rd of 3) Staines BC A 21 mins 00.5 secs
Full results are available from the official website.

13th November 2004 The calendar photoshoot began this morning with Guy Pedliham (see pic) taking photographs of the women's squad and Graham Carey's crew. He will visit again next Saturday to photograph the men's and Junior's squads. All crews not yet photographed are reminded to wear the correct Staines racing kit for the session next week.

13th November 2004 Good news today for Sir William Perkins's School Rowing Club as they have just bought the first 2 boats for their fleet. Firstly a single scull, which did not make it on to the water today but will be 'christened' by rising star Rachel Martin tomorrow at noon. Secondly, a Janousek quad complete in SWPS livery. This boat, although not new, has been checked over by Phil Gregory of Janousek and is in great condition. Some may remember this boat which was at Staines some time ago after being gifted by Proctor and Gamble but then was subsequently moved away for use by the Tideway Scullers School.

13th November 2004 Robin Dunlop reminds everyone who drives a hire van for towing from Kendalls in Chertsey that they will need to complete and submit an insurance form (PDF file) before driving the vehicle. For future reference, this form will remain on this website at the bottom of the Links Page.

13th November 2004 Jules Reichel emails ----- THE MYSTERIOUS DISAPPEARANCE OF CLUB PROPERTY..... After having raised this issue on the website and at the committee meeting, the committee is extremely unimpressed with the mysterious disappearance of the two big cooking pots from the club kitchen. With very active social secretaries at work, there is the opportunity for us to raise substantial funds through the kitchen, however without pots I can't do any cooking. Whoever has taken them, or anyone who knows where the pots have disappeared to, has still the opportunity to just return them silently to the kitchen. Personally I am appalled that this is happening and can not believe someone would actually, with a clear conscience, treat our club property in this manner. A very sad affair.

13th November 2004 Robin Dunlop forwards this email from Anatole Beams ----- Thames Tideway Turd Race - 23rd November 2004, 1.00pm As you will be well aware sewage discharges into the Thames reached drastic proportions this summer. We are arranging a media spectacular to draw attention to the problem and the hazards that it presents to water sports in the river – particularly rowing, before the water industry price review is decided by DEFRA next month. We are petitioning all the clubs on the tideway and beyond. We are arranging a mini competition between two rowing eights, each dragging 14’ inflatable turds at 1.00pm on Tuesday 23rd November over a 500m course at the Putney Embankment. Other crews would be welcome to hitch up their eights and give it a whirl (please contact me directly if you are interested). We will be collecting petitions for presentation to the Environment Minister at the offices of DEFRA in Millbank. We are selling t-shirts for £6.00 each (essential wear for the crews) - please contact me if you want any, or order them from the webpage (available over the weekend).* Whatever you do, please ensure you sign the petition, which should be on your club noticeboard or send your name in from the web page. http://www.putneytownrc.co.uk/TTTposter.html Please pass on and spread the word. many thanks Anatole Beams Rowers Against Thames Sewage Putney Town Rowing Club Kew meadows path, Kew, London TW9 4EN P.s. R.A.T.S. is the name of our campaign, which is being run with help from Surfers Against Sewage, who have been fighting the cause for surfing beaches for many years.

13th November 2004 Social Secretary, Dom South writes ----- Just letting you know that there will be a quiz night at the boat club from 8pm on 25th November. Hope you can all come along and support the club. Please e-mail myself or Bonny to confirm attendance/no. in team and to let us know if you want the meal as well so we can plan catering. Alternatively confirm your attendance by writing your team name up on the sheet posted on the bar shutters!! Details briefly: Entry £5 (including chilli £3 and quiz entry £2 per person) Prizes will be organised for winners and losers!! Anyone with any additional donations - let me know.... Time - start at 8pm. Training - let's organise a squats session or similar to start early enough to be finished / showered in time for 8pm. Bring anyone - Teams of up to 4. We're not in 8's yet!!!

12th November 2004 Steve Ballantine emails ----- Hello all, there is a cunning plan afoot to produce a club calendar. Suzanne has managed to organise all of it to be produced for next to nothing, therefore profit to SBC :o) The help required: (Short notice I know) We need somebody to drive the launch 8am onwards and Anybody feeling photogenic needs to turn up and paddle in Staines kit (Junior/Vet/Seniors all welcome it would be good to see all sections represented). There will be a second chance coming up but it would be good to get the first attempt off to a good start as a lo