Staines Boat Club's Latest News
Archive 2/5/05 - 31/7/05

31st July 2005 There appears to be a worrying trend here. This image just in of more mystery characters from another drunken binge this week.
31st July 2005 The ARA website has this invitation ----- The Royal National Institute of the blind are looking for thrill seeking dare devils for their exclusive abseil event at the 400ft Centre Point building in London. They need to people to take up the challenge and help raise vital funds for blind and partially sighted people in the UK.
30th July 2005 Oh dear! - A question here from an anonymous source -- Can anyone identify these super heroes abandoning their duties to go on a drunken bender.  Apparently one of them is due to be wed soon!!!????
30th July 2005 Robin Dunlop emails with this advertisement ----- Sculling Boat For Sale - Dick Griffin single scull, 70-80kg, CD riggers, runners and seat - £750ono - sculls and strokecoach available - Phone: Tony 07960979048
28th July 2005 From an email ----- The latest 'dunker' to join the hall of fame was Mr Adam Gill.  Last night he managed to tip himself in whilst trying to show off his sculling prowess to is doubles partner and last weeks dunkee, Nikki Browning.  Apparently Adam was heard saying just moments before, "one day Nikki you could be as good as me."  He went on to say, "you see most people get frightened being in a sculling boat because you have to steer.  It's best not to look and just 'feel' where you are on the water."  At that precise moment Adam was seen disappearing under the stern of a parked cruiser he hadn't 'felt' using his Jedi powers.  Being assured of his own ability he hadn't had his feet strapped in so was catapulted head first into the water.  After several moments of tearful laughter but sadly no photography, Adam returned to the boat.  Let's hope the dent to his Jedi powers doesn't find him turning to the dark side...and let it be a lesson to us all sculling boats are not for larking around in, they are a serious tool, an implement of torture not to be abused by careless acts of male bravado. 
27th July 2005 Murray Litvak writes ----- Just a brief note on behalf of the Regatta Committee to thank all those members, mum & dads, family and friends who helped on Saturday to make it a success (we hope). Lets hope next year the weather is a bit kinder. Also, the Club Committee would like to thank all those members, mum & dads, family and friends who have helped on over the past few weeks to tidy up the club- especially the Mum (s) who did the flower baskets- they are much appreciated. Would members please feel free to throw water over the baskets when they are passing so that the plants don’t die.
27th July 2005 Leanne Johns emails at 2.30pm ----- Chertsey Lane is currently closed as a double decker bus (full of school children) crashed trying to go under the railway bridge, which means access cannot be gained to SBC via car.  I have no idea how long it will be closed but seeing as no attempt has yet been made to remove the bus I would imagine it will be closed a while as the bridge will then have to be safety tested.
27th July 2005 Craig Twaddle emails ----- A sculling course is being run by Allan Whitwell (Olympic Eights Silver Medallist 1980, Lightweight Double Sculls World Champion 1986 & International Sculling Coach) at Weybridge RC on 24th & 25th Sept. It's for all abilities, although a little experience helps, and further details can be found at - http://www.weybridge.rowing.org.uk/scullingcourses.htm
27th July 2005 Membership Secretary, Craig Twaddle writes ----- Could members who have changed address since membership renewal and not informed me please do so. This includes those who renewed with payment but did not complete a membership form. As I will not be standing for another term as Membership Secretary I would like to have the database up-to-date before I hand over to my successor - whoever that will be!!!
26th July 2005 Rob Oades submits 3 photos taken by Mark Lafbery at last Sunday's Burway Veteran and Junior Regatta and Carol Dubé also sends one of the winning SWPS quad . See Photographs Page.
26th July 2005 Liz Lake writes ----- A few members of Staines Boat Club will be taking part in a Charity Sponsored row from Henley to Staines, in aid of Autistic Children on Saturday 24th September 2005. Autism is a neurological disorder that effects normal development in children. The latest prevalence rates suggest that Autism occurs in at least 60 out of every 10,000 births and is four times more common in boys than girls. There are about 500,000 children and adults in the UK with Autism and allied disorders. For such a large amount of people affected by Autism, there is not enough knowledge or support for the children or their families in this country. All money collected will be given to the National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR). Our aim is to raise as much money as possible so that NAAR (UK) can fund, promote and support research worldwide into the causes of autism spectrum disorders. This sponsored row also sees the return of Matt Boast to rowing. For those who don't know Matt he rowed at Burway during the 80's and 90's and was a very successful sculler. Matt has now been retired from the sport for 13 years and is returning to the sport to raise and support NAAR as he has a son affected by Autism, so has personal experience of the day to day struggle experienced by families affected by this devastating disorder. If you would like to take part in the sponsored row please contact Liz Lake for more details and a sponsor form. Alternatively, financial contributions/sponsorship would be gratefully received.
26th July 2005 Rob Oades sends this report ----- The juniors had a hectic week-end competing at both the Staines and Burway Regatta's - as well as hopefully providing useful help at the Staines event. The squad was involved in close and competitive racing at both regatta's with over ten final's reached. Four pots were added to this seasons tally. At Staines, Nick Pollen won his first single pot in the J15 1x event. Well done. On the Sunday at Burway 3 pots were won. Andrew Frost was victorious in the J12 1x event and then teamed up with Tom Oades to win the J12 double. Rachel Edwards won the WJ16 1x competition at Burway. Well done to all the juniors who raced well. Again many thanks to all parents for their help and support on both days. Special thanks again go to Peter Smith, Ted Dyos and Jeremy Pollen who all worked especially hard over the week-end, not only looking after the Juniors but making a major contribution to the setting up and running of the Staines Regatta.
26th July 2005 Robin Dunlop has submitted some photos taken at the recent ARA National Championships in Nottingham. See Photographs Page.
25th July 2005 A thread has just started on the newsgroup rec.sport.rowing with a link to an article on the BBC website about speeding launches on the Thames.
25th July 2005 Bar Officer, Terry Moore emails ----- May I thank everyone who helped at the refreshment tent and in the bar throughout the day and evening on Saturday. If any one has seen the Urn from the tent on Saturday, please let me know as it needs to be returned this week. Thanks once again, Terry.
25th July 2005 Adam Gill releases the final results for Staines Regatta 2005.
25th July 2005 Jim Pettitt sends this link on the Kodak Easy Share Gallery website where he has posted some great photos he took at Staines Regatta. Click on the first photo see see the whole gallery of 60 photos.
25th July 2005 Steve Tassell sends this report from Staines Regatta ----- Another weekend of great racing from the Women with close racing all the way through.  First up was the S4 4+ of Di Gill (cox), Suzanne McKenna, Cath Burke, Sue Meacock Fletcher and Kate Rumbold.  Half the crew are in their first season and are racing at Senior 4 because they won their novice pot at Twickenham earlier in the season.  This crew drew the eventual winners in the first round, Putney Town.  Off the start both crews were level and in fact the Staines crew had the better base speed if only for a few boat stoppers along the course we could have been looking at a different result other than the third length loss.  None the less a solid result and a good platform to work from going forward.  Next up was the Senior 3 eight of The Stig (cox), Sarah Tassell, Katja Norman, Suzanne Reng, Katherine Cran, Nikki Browning, Claire Lovelady, Anna Behrendt and Bonny Howes.  Again we drew the eventual winners in the first round, Putney Town, Staines took a slight lead off the start, however, Putney held their nerve as we lost ours and all credit to them they rowed longer and more effectively through the water to win by a third of a length.  There was some consolation that we had given them the closest, fastest round of the day, a habit we seem to be developing.  Next up was the Senior 2 coxed four of The Stig (cox), Sarah Tassell, Katherine Cran, Suzanne Reng, Claire Lovelady.  In the first round we drew Evesham, off the start we drew a quarter length lead and further increased this over the next 200m, eventually winning by 2 lengths in a time of 1:55.  The other half of the draw saw our previous weeks opponents from Molesey regatta -Vesta- whom beat us by 1/2 a length then.  Incidentally I've since learnt all four crew members raced at Men's Henley this year so certainly a crew of pedigree.  In their heat Vesta managed 1:56 and a similar verdict so we knew the final was going to be another close run thing.  In the final, as at Molesey, Staines got the better start taking a three quarter length out of Vesta canceling out the stagger.  Unlike Molesey regatta though we kept a much more consistent base speed keeping our noses in front all the way to the finish in a time of 1:53.  This was a great win for the girls given the quality of opposition a great reward for all their hard work in training.  Last up was the Senior 4 eight of The Stig (cox), Sarah Tassell, Katja Norman, Anna Behrendt, Katherine Cran, Lucy Duncombe, Claire Lovelady, Nikki Browning and Bonny Howes.  A straight final against Putney Town and this time a much better start with the girls quickly finding their rhythm.  Staines never looked in trouble eventually winning by a length and a half.  All in all some great racing which on this occasion resulted in some trophyware.  Well done to all the girls racing.
24th July 2005 A text message just in from Liz Bernard at Burway Vet and Junior Regatta saying the SWPS girls won WJ14 2x, WJ14 4x, WJ15 1x, WJ15 2x and Liz herself won W VetC 4+ with her crew from Molesey. Full results will be available in due course from the Burway website.
23rd July 2005 Congratulations go to Paul Goldswain who celebrated his 50th birthday today by competing in Staines Regatta in his winning Vet D coxed four. He was presented with a cake by his crew. See Photographs Page. Today also saw the birthday of one of our star juniors, Rob Oades, who is now 15!
22nd July 2005 Jodi Davis sends some photos of the crew of her successful Lightweight Womens Four taken recently at the club.
22nd July 2005 Robin Dunlop emails proposing a Coaching Meeting ----- I would like to organise a coaching get togther in early September. May I suggest the morning of 10th or 17th to start with? This is just a forum of us all, in order to discuss future coaching development and understanding each others needs and level of input - it is NOT a moaning stage, just a how can we improve and what suggestions people have. If you have your development programme drafted for next season by then bring it along and lets discuss.
Also please note that the FISA standard of coaching is published here and they also offer a new E-learning facility where you can achieve an accredited FISA diploma in coaching over the web and email. Definitely worth a look. I have Jeremy ear marked for the Bronze award and Dom F is on the list for the next IA course. If there is anyone else who wishes to be put forward please let me know.
22nd July 2005 Dom Foley emails ----- Can all members who use SBC facilities please ensure that all cox boxes are put on charge after each outing.  Murray and the committee have done a fantastic job to ensure that everything is in working order,  but unfortunately I have noticed (as I'm normally the first to arrive and last to leave on Tues/Thur) that the procedure for using the equipment is still not being adhered to.  I have spoken to Steve B already who remarked 'it's pitiful'.  Say no more, over to you guys.....
21st July 2005 Keith Tunnicliffe has kindly just added a page referring to Staines Regatta to the StainesWeb website a link to which will be sent shortly to their email list.
21st July 2005 Peter Smith has released the timing chart for the stake boats at Staines Regatta on Saturday.
21st July 2005 Steve Smith submits the Staines Regatta Club Duty Roster 2005 ----- It's that time again? Staines regatta is here! Thanks to everyone for volunteering. I have tried to make each job as painless as possible (i.e. swan herding 1 hour instead of last years 2 hours) but please ensure you take responsibility for your own slot. I have tried to take race times, and requests into account, but if there is a clash with racing etc, please do your best to organise your own sub. As a last resort please tell me with as much notice as possible, or call me on 07958 508 564 Looking forward to us all making this a great day, See you Saturday - Oz
21st July 2005 From an email ----- Some of you may have noticed that yesterday (Wednesday) evening we had a swimmer on our reach of the river. Having sculled to the motorway bridge; most of us would choose to go swimming on a more picturesque part of the river, but unforunately Nikki, on her 3rd time out in a single was knocked into the river by her boyfriend Mark who seemed to be oblivious to her presence, despite copious amounts of yelling. I'm assuming that there will be a full incident report logged to the safety adviser of exactly how the incident came about.....
20th July 2005 Social Secretaries, Dom South and Bonny Howes write ----- Don't forget to come and strut your stuff at the Staines BC post regatta party. Saturday 23rd July 7.30pm til late. Bring your dancing shoes and see if you can take current 'dance off' champion Steve Tassell's crown, a title proudly won after his break dancing antics at Women's Henley...... See you there, Bon and Dom
20th July 2005 The Tideway Slug has a strikingly identical photograph to the one on this website, of the 'rowers damage the environment' banner seen at Molesey Regatta this weekend. Let's spot the difference - the Slug pic - the SBC pic--- tut tut - naughty rabbit!!
20th July 2005 Adam Gill has released a slightly modified version of the 2005 Staines Regatta draw (issued 19/7/05). Please read to see if it affects your event.
20th July 2005 Safety Adviser, Mark Ansley-Watson releases the following 4 documents for Staines Regatta, the links to which can also be found on the Staines Regatta Page. 1 Competitor Instructions - 2 Regatta Course Map - 3 Risk Assessment - 4 Safety Plan
20th July 2005 Ian Grant emails ----- To all Pubs and Clubs coaches/coxes and also clubs members who feel that their rowing technique needs a little improvement. My marvelous re-design for a bank tub that provides the most realistic feel of being out in a boat, while being nice and safe just 2ft away from the bank and a coach, is not currently ready for club use as it's missing a few important bits of equipment that I need to get hold of, i.e. 1 complete footplate (fixings and all) and two riggers (backstays not necessary). When I have these parts, the tub will be fully available for you to use, though you'll have to check the rules to see if it would count as part of the 1 hour training sessions for pubs and clubs crews. If anyone can help 'get hold of' the final bits or has some spares handy then let me know so I can fix them to the tub to get it working as soon as possible.
19th July 2005 Rob Oades reports ----- The 3 Junior crews did very well at the National Championships. The WJ14 2x crew of Jenny Goldswain and Emma Corless reached the semi-final, after winning their first heat. They came 5th in their semi-final. Rob Oades missed the semi-final by 4/10's sec by coming 3rd in his heat of the OJ15 1x. Rob then came fourth in his rep race, but only the first two made the semi. Rebecca Corless and Emma Parkes made the final of the WJ15 2x (by winning their heat and by coming 2nd in their semi-final), In the final they rowed a good race and finished 6th in a close finish. All junior crews rowed with determination and were not disgraced. Many thanks to all parents and family for their support and Smithy for his coaching.
The juniors had several crews entered in the Molesey Junior Regatta. All lost in the first rounds except Megan Williamson and Andrew Frost. Megan had two great races to make the semi-final of the WJ13 1x event. Unfortunately her opponent in the semi was a bit too big for her, but Megan put up a great fight. It was left to Andrew Frost, fully recovered I am very glad to say after his dehydration at TVP, to deliver the Juniors 20th win of the season in the final of the J12 1x (having qualified easily by winning his two earlier races). Andrew rowed a great race by all accounts. Well done. Many thanks as usual to all parents and supporters and to Ted and Jeremy for looking after the squad.
18th July 2005 Ian Grant sends this report ----- A great days racing from the men's squad at Molesey Regatta with 4 out of 6 finals reached and 3 wins. Starting with the scullers, Mark AW competed in the N1x providing a dramatic S-Final race against tideway scullers by coming from a length down with 200m to go to win by 3 lengths in 3:37.
Unfortunately in the final although with a better start, faced tougher opposition who managed to hold off the final push and lost by 2 1/2 lengths, in 3:39. Ian G, in his first race at senior level, unfortunately didn't make it to Saturday in the S3 1x, after losing out to a more experienced sculler and the eventual winner in the first round on a quiet Friday night.
In the N2x, Fikret O and Max S, despite the 'in boat married couple type arguments' while racing, produced some good sculling to power through the opposition from Ardingly RC, by 4 length in 3:33, Parrs Priory RC, by 1 length in 3:16 and Thames RC by 3 1/2 lengths in 3:23 to win their novice sculling pots.
In the fours, the N4+ of Adrian T, Rob T, Paul, Chris B and Ali L, in their second race of the summer season, gave everything they physically could, but missed out on a place in the S-Finals by 3 lengths to Walbrook & RCC in 3:30. We had two S3 4+ entered with Rob W, Gary LJ, Dave D, Tom B and Krissi having to race in the first round beat AK B by 1 length to face Twickenham Brit four in the S-Finals. Despite the Staines cheer from the enclosure, they missed out a place in the final by 2 1/2 lengths in a time of 3:16. The second S3 4+ of Andrew T, Joe W, Rob S, Nick H and Leanne J, gave the opposition a false sense of security on the paddle up to the start but brought their rowing together for their postponed S-Final race down against Lady Margaret BC to win by 3 lengths in 3:09. For the final against Twickenham, in a much closer race being level all the way down, managed to put in a better final push to win by only 1 length in 3:07.
The final race was the S3 8+ of Dave D, Terry M, Nick H, Andrew T, Tom H, Rob S, Joe W, Ian G and Leanne J faced Thames RC in the S-Final and after being level for the first 350m began to move away from the opposition to win by 2 1/4 lengths. The final, against Granta with rumors of it being the Cambridge lightweight development squad, was a very close race with the staines crew managing to hold a half length all the way the course, responded well to any pushes by the opposition to win by 3/4 length in 2:49.
Some good and well earned wins from the squad, with thanks again going to the the girls for coxing and supporters for their shouting to give us that extra push during the final stages of the races.
18th July 2005 Jodi Davis writes ----- The lightweight four want to express a few hugs and thank yous. Firstly and most importantly to our coach Gideon who over the last four months has taken our rowing skills from strength to strength. We can't stress enough that without all Gideon's hard work, determination and true belief in us Staines Boat club would not have these Henley and National titles. The words of wisdom of draw up, sit back, one piece drive phase have created the rowing style you see today! He had to put up with all the early morning, the joys of coaching woman who never shut up and a crew that would not listen to the debrief until the chocolate eclairs had been distributed. He truely has been the core of our success - if only they made medals for the coaches. (You will see Gideon modelling his lightweight squad top though from time to time!) The other people we must thank are our other halves as without their support we may have cracked weeks ago, training partners on the rivers (you know who you are), our super sub Gurli and all the people who believed in us. Oh and of course I must not forget to thank Bassetts for the creationof Jelly Babies and Waitrose for the chocolate eclairs! Thanks to everyone once again - its been an amazing season making all the blood, sweat and tears worth while - one no of us will ever forget - we may come down from cloud nine soon ish!
18th July 2005 Guy Pedliham has submitted photos that he has taken at Molesey Amateur, Molesey Junior and Weybridge Ladies Regattas. They have been added to the end to the respective photos pages. See Photographs Page.
18th July 2005 Steve Smith writes ----- Hi Everyone, thanks to all those who have volunteered to help at Staines Regatta. I have your name if you put it on the list at the club or if you have emailed me. However, we are still extremely short on help in the following areas: Car Parking, Swan Herding and a few other smaller jobs during the day. Please be aware that crews will only be racing if they are helping out in some way on the day. Unfortunately, some crews may have to be scratched if we are still short on help :-( Staines Regatta has a history of being a great day for the entire boat club, but this is only possible with the help of everyone. Sorry to have to nag, but please just ensure you volunteer and this year will be as great as ever. To volunteer, please email me by Wednesday 12pm, or put your name on the new list that I will be putting up this afternoon. Alternatively, please call me on 07958 508 564 - cheers everyone, Oz
18th July 2005 Adam Gill has now released the 2005 Staines Regatta draw.
18th July 2005 Liz Bernard send this report for Sir William Perkins's School from yesterday's Molesey Junior Regatta ----- Molesey Junior Regatta, Sunday 17th July: Sir William Perkins’s School competitors and families enjoyed a great day of racing and a barbeque in the blazing heat.  We entered 9 crews and of these, 5 gained a place in the finals.  Our new J12’s who started rowing at Easter this year, won the WJ12 2x and 4x+ events.  The winning double out of a field of 8, were Vicky Deyong-Burgess and Charlie Martin-Taylor who both sculled well, and steered expertly by Charlie.  The winning 4x+ were Ailish Kelly, Emily Lombardo, Kirsten Hilliard, Helen O’Hara and coxed by Victoria Ballerino.  Bethan Roberts, her first race in a single, gained a place in the final of the WJ14 1x in ‘Tickled Pink’.  Rachel Martin also gained a well-earned place in the final of the WJ15 1x, after winning, with Vikki Wardle the WJ15 2x event. Well done to all scullers.  We all ended the day hot, tired and happy! Full results will be available in due course from the Molesey Regatta website. Also see Photographs Page.
17th July 2005 Duncan Speight sends this report from the National Championships today ----- The Staines women’s coxless four of Alison Rolt, Sarah Fudge, Jenny Page and Jodi Davis have finished off a successful season with a win at National Championships. This win added to wins at Henley Regatta and Docklands sees them as one of the most successful crews Staines has produced for a number of years. The final was always going to be an interesting affair as none of the crews in the semi finals was willing to show their true colours and all raced to tactics. The start of the final saw Staines fly out of the blocks to stamp their authority over the rest of the field, by the 250m mark they had taken a length out of the nearest crew, and by 500m they were two lengths clear of the field. It was at this point that the Staines Supporters could hear Gideon’s dulcet tones reverberating in the finish area! Going through the 1000m mark the girls were looking on fantastic form, sharp, together and looking strong, though we were to find out later that at 750m to go the girls from the 2003 crew had a flash back to their race in Strathclyde as the Mortlake Anglian & Alpha started pushing hard. The girls responded with the maturity that one would expect from a crew of this calibre, holding off their advances. At 500m, with legs like concrete the girls pushed and pushed again making sure that they maintained their dominance over the field. The final verdict was a win over Mortlake by 5 seconds, though it was clear to see that the girls had given everything to get this result as it took a good few seconds for the crew to realise that they had won and had earned the title of National and Club Champions of Great Britain.
I have to say it was a pleasure to watch and is a fantastic result for Staines Boat Club. As I write this we are celebrating with a few glasses of wine, the first for a good few months for most!
17th July 2005 Steve Tassell sends this regarding the ARA National Championships in Nottingham -----
The girls have done the double! See this commentary on racing from Rachel Quarrel's site: Race 578: Women's lightweight coxless fours final -- This one's already on the lake, and there's some dreadful steering. If I see right, several crews have had trouble across the buoys, and the umpire is busy veering about trying to keep an eye on things. Leaders appear to be Staines A, clearly in front, with Mortlake Anglian also looking speedy. Glasgow Uni, the main steering culprits, are still tangling regularly with the buoys, which is doing their actual speed no good. This could make bronze very interesting - St. Andrew/Clydesdale are too far back, but Thames have an outside chance if Glasgow cock up again. Coming to the line, and it will be Staines A gold, also tweaking the buoys, Mortlake hang on for silver, and Glasgow do manage the bronze, while someone is making dying-duck noises, I think on the water. Full results are available on the National Water Sports Centre website.
17th July 2005 Steve Tassell sends this report from yesterday's Molesey Regatta ----- Molesey was a milestone in the season as our senior crews, despite not winning, hit top form.  First up the Women's Senior 3 coxed four of Susan Spandex (cox), Sarah Tassell, Katja Norman, Suzanne Reng, Claire Lovelady.  They drew Barnes Bridge Ladies in the first round, a hard fought race all the way down saw staines losing by a canvas in the closest race of the event and losing to the eventual winners.  This was a great effort for what was the first outing for this crew as they've been hit by injuries.  Next up was the Senior 4 eight of Kristan Sanft (cox), Anna Behrendt, Katja Norman, Lucy Duncombe, Claire Lovelady, Suzanne McKenner, Cath Burke, Nikki Browning, Kate Rumbold.  They had drawn Cambrdige University Women's Boat Club in the first round and again gave a spirited row to finish a length and third down at the finish.  For one member of the crew, Nikki, this was her first race and only after 2 weeks of rowing!  Next up the Women's Senior 2 coxless fours, Katy Young, Anna Behrendt, Katy Breslin and Lucy Duncombe.  This was a straight final against Molesey.  This crew were lightweight and should have been up at the Nationals this weekend, however, due to a clash with a wedding had to make a crew change and decided to race at Molesey instead.  Unfortunately as is often the case steering was a big factor in the outcome of the race with both crews being warned off the start and Staines struggling to stay on their station all the way down gifting Molesey a comfortable win in the end.  Last up was the Senior 2 coxed four of Sarah Tassell, Katherine Cran, Suzanne Reng and Claire Lovelady.  We'd drawn Vesta who beat a Walbrook crew comfortably in the previous round.  We knew we had our work cut out as this four had raced in Senior 2 eights beating Cambridge Boat club convincingly.  We also know that this crew contained a Henley medal winner in Senior eights from two years ago, and they'd raced as part of an eight at Men's Henley in the Remenham Cup this year!  This again was a very close race.  At the start Staines pulled out a half length lead.  Vesta pushed back though with their smoother technique even though we had more power.  The verdict in the end was half a length to Vesta.  A very good result and finally I am seeing the girls produce the sort of racing form they have been promising in training. Full results will be available in due course from the Regatta website. Also see Photographs Page.
16th July 2005 I have posted a few photos taken today at Molesey Amateur Regatta on the Photographs Page.
15th July 2005 Social Secretary, Bonny Howes writes ----- Attention all those potential pubs and clubs crews! Every year the regatta is oversubsribed - make sure you reserve your right to race, by filling in this online reservation form. First come first served. Remember no entries are confirmed until SBC receive a signed entry form (for insurance purposes) along with a cheque for £120. All details are on the website homepage pubs and clubs link. Closing date for entries 6th August 2005.
15th July 2005 Paul Goldswain sends this good news from the first day of the ARA National Championships in Nottingham. -- Rob Oades (J15 1x) through to Repechage. Both WJ14 2x and WJ15 2x girls crews won their first heats outright going through to the semifinals tomorrow (Saturday). Full results are available on the National Water Sports Centre website.
14th July 2005 Further to the Committee meeting on Tuesday and the subsequent note regarding boat booking, for clarification, ‘Blaze’ and ‘Maphie’ are still being coordinated by the Vet squad coordinater (currently Clare Wood – 07973 358743) as per the sponsorship agreement, so please continue to book the boats though Clare and copy in Adam for information.
14th July 2005 Steve Smith writes regarding Staines Regatta ----- Hi everyone, as you all know, Staines Regatta is just around the corner on Saturday 23rd of this month! WE NEED VOLUNTEERS!!! Thank you to all of those who have already put their name on the list, BUT WE NEED MORE! This is your regatta, and it needs your support for it to work. Please put your name on the list down at the club, (try to fill the blank spaces), or contact me on 07958 508 564 or email: steveozi@tiscali.co.uk. Looking forward to seeing all of you there, cheers, Oz
13th July 2005 Murray Litvak emails ---- YOUR REGATTA NEEDS YOUR BREAD --- Due to HM govt. we now have to source our own bread to feed the wonderful swans from internal sources. Therefore could all members please hang on to all their old bread next week and drop it off at the club, preferably on Friday night. Otherwise we will be feeding the swans with junior members and less experienced seniors!!
13th July 2005 Secretary, Murray Litvak writes ----- BOOKING OF BOATS --- Would all rowers please note the Committee last night reconfirmed the policy that ALL club boats utilised by any SBC members must be booked via Adam Gill in writing by Monday lunchtime each week. This includes senior, veteran, and junior boats. This is necessary due to the sheer number of members, and to see a fair usage of equipment- sadly we do not have the luxury of being able to leave boats gathering dust on the racks. The Committee 12/7/05.
13th July 2005 Membership Secretary, Craig Twaddle announces ----- We welcome the following new members who were elected at the recent committee meeting - Tom Harris, Jim Pettitt (BA), Lucy Nicholson and Catherine Blake.
12th July 2005 Jo Wilby sends this report ----- "Staines Women Past & Present" win at Henley Veterans Regatta on Saturday 9th July in a composite WVB8.  The crew consisted of 5 SBC past and present members; Jenny Page (SBC), Gurli Medcalf (BA), Jo Wilby, Trisha Corless and MaryAnn Millar of UTRC. In the first round we had a comfortable win over Broxbourne, then went on to face Tideway Scullers in an exciting final.  Our composite crew of UTRC, SBC, BA & TSS, took a early lead at 250 meters, pulled away to three quarters at 500 meters, TSS put in a challenging response at 750 meters and closed our lead to half a length to which we responded and held the half a length lead to the finish. Great result for a scratch crew. See pic.
12th July 2005 Adam Gill advises that Staines Regatta is now able to take entries online using the ARA OARA system. See Staines Regatta Page.
12th July 2005 Liz lake adds this report from Bedford Quarts Sprint Regatta ----- What a weekend for us girls!  After a 5am start, feeling nervous and apprehensive.  Leanne, Michelle, Ali, Charlotte and Liz arrived at the regatta we had been training for since we left the Women's Squad Ladder.  We spent the morning winding ourselves up and getting extremely nervous seeing various Staines men's crews winning their rounds.  At 2pm it was our turn!  We nervously warmed up in the 200 metres available and moved onto the start still cold and feeling nauseous next to Star club. Finishing in a time of 2:22 and feeling silly that we had got so nervous we beat Star with a verdict of 'easily'.  This didn't stop the nerves revisiting for the final.  After watching Broxbourne row their Semi, we all had our negative feelings about our ability in the final.  Luckily we kept it all inward and only showed the positive to each other.  Broxbourne had the stagger in their advantage and we knew we had to draw up level within 20 strokes to have a chance of winning.  By 30 strokes we were a ¼ length up and continued to lengthen out and eventually won by 2 ¼ lengths in a time of 2:28.  This was an important race for us as it is the first Qualifying race we have been able to enter this year and also because after years of non-qualifying races and bad luck Ali Lake has now won her Novice Pot!  Well done Ali!The highlight of the day of course, was collecting our huge tankards and feeling supported by the boys...Thanks Guys, for adopting us for the day! We would like to say 'Ta' to Ian Grant and Tom for coaching us over the last few weeks and also to Roger Pailes who has tolerated us for what seems like forever.  We would also like to thank Steve Tassell for making the women's equipment available for us to use.
12th July 2005 The draws for both Molesey Amateur and Junior Regattas that take place next weekend on the 16th and 17th July respectively, have now been published. Several Staines and Sir William Perkins's School crews are competing. They can be found on the Molesey Regatta website.
11th July 2005 Rob Oades reports ----- The Junior squad had 3 crews entered for the Kingston Amateur Regatta on Saturday. The competition was very strong in the Junior 15 category for both men's and women's events. However at least we were rowing for a change after the recent disappointments of over subscribed events losing us several racing opportunities.
Rob Oades and Nick Pollen had a tough draw in the J15 2x drawing the eventual winners in the first heat (they came second) and the number two placed crew in their rep race (losing). Rob faired little better in the single event again drawing the eventual winner in both his heat and then again in the semi-final, losing in the semi by two lengths.
The stars of the day however were Becky Corless and Emma Parks who warmed up for the nationals with a good victory in the WJ 15 2x to claim very nicely engraved Kingston pots - the Squads 19th victory of the season. They beat Putney High School in the first round, and crews from Lady Eleanor Holles in both the semi-final and the final. Next stop the Nationals. Full results will be available in due course from the Kingston Regatta website.
11th July 2005 Ian Grant sends this report from Bedford Quarts Sprint Regatta ----- Staines had 7 different crews entered for the regatta and produced some good racing during the day. The three S34+ were first to race. Staines A, a scratch crew of Ian G, Joe W, Terry M, Dan W and coxed by Lucy N, had a row over in the first round but unfortunately in the Q-finals, lost to a very well drilled Bedford School crew after a good first half, by 2 1/2 lengths in 1:59. The Staines C crew of Gary LJ, Robb W, Tom B, Dave D and coxed by Liz L were also unlucky as they went out to Milton Keynes by 1 3/4 lengths.
Staines B of Fikret O, Tom H, Nick H, Adam M and coxed by Leanne J managed to get to the S-finals after beating Marlow and Falcon, but lost the eventual winners, Peterborough City by 2 lengths in 1:51.
Max S and Fikret O entered N2x and S42x and a day of row overs. In the S42x they had a row over in the first round, beat Peterborough City easily in the S-final but unfortunately lost in the final to Stratford Upon Avon by 2 lengths in 2:04. In the N2x they had another row over in the first round but lost in the S-Final to Bedford RC, the eventual winners by 3/4 /length in 2:03.
In the N1x, Ian G produced some good racing to win his novice pot in Division B after beating scullers from Peterborough City (easily), Marlow (3
lengths) and Star Club in the final by 1 1/2 lengths. Unfortunately in the Grand final between the two divisional winner Ian lost out to another Star club Sculler by 3 lengths after some dodgy steering in the second half. A special mention has to be made to Blades of Peterborough, as after Ian caught a small crab, two strokes later he hit a buoy, lost a scull under the boat and managed to recover it, all without falling in and in front of all the Staines supporters.
The the last event of the day the S38+ of Terry M, Joe W, Ian G, Dan W, Gary LJ, Nick H, Tom B, Dave D and coxed by Lucy N had a row over in the Semi final but after a good start lost out to Cambridge '99 by 1 length in 1:48.
Thanks go the the supporters who traveled up, the girls for getting up extra early to cox us and a well done to the girls four for their win. Full results can be found on the Bedford RC website.
10th July 2005 Although waiting for a full report I can confirm some good news from Bedford Quarts Sprint Regatta today. The Staines Womens S4+ beat Broxbourne RC in the final by 2 1/4 lengths and Ian Grant, racing in group B Novice sculls, beat a Star RC sculler in the final of his group but unfortunately lost to another Star sculler in the grand final by 3 lengths. Full results can be found on the Bedford RC website.
10th July 2005 Bonny Howes asks ----- Did anyone pick up a Nokia 6320 mobile phone for safekeeping from the club on Sunday morning, as it went missing whilst I was out rowing? If so, please can you return it quickly as it belongs to me and is my company phone. I will be at the club every night this week.  Many thanks, Bonny. 
7th July 2005 Another notice to all members of SBC from Captain, Steve Ballantine ----- To ensure we do a successful job of running Staines regatta on 23rd July we will need support from all the members. Therefore to ensure the workload is fairly shared anybody wishing to compete will need to get a job to do on the day & so that we all have enough time to support the regatta no SBC member will enter more than 1 event. If we are suitably oversubscribed with happy helpers it may be possible to relax this rule. Steve Smith (steveozi@tiscali.co.uk) is managing a list of jobs and will be happy to find you something to do. So Chop Chop get your name down don't leave it to the few to look after the many  :o) Regards SteveB
7th July 2005 Notice to all members of SBC from Captain, Steve Ballantine ----- I hope it hasn't escaped every bodies attention the club is in bad need of a tidy up, the committee has employed a builder to do the a number of jobs to stop the EHO closing us down. In addition to this we need to do a number of jobs around the club grounds. I will ordering a skip and expecting everybody to volunteer to do a bit to help tidy many hands make light work and this needs to be done before the regatta. So feel free to group together or on your own and volunteer for a job either this weekend or in the following week (yes I know there is racing on but not both days) SteveB :o)
7th July 2005 Social Secretaries, Dom South and Bonny Howes write ----- The 13th annual Staines Boat Club Pubs and Clubs Regatta will take place on SUNDAY 4th SEPTEMBER 2005 and is open to crews of four women or four men that have not rowed before or have rowed only as part of a losing crew in previous Pubs and Clubs events. The boat club will provide boats and a cox/coach to train each crew.
Training takes place during late July & throughout August, with each crew allowed up to 5 x 1 hour sessions on the water. This is usually sufficient to ensure success on race day.
On regatta day, separate events will be held for men and for women with heats taking place throughout the day (commencing approx 9am). The course is about 350 metres long and is completed by most crews in less than 2 minutes. All crews that are unsuccessful in the first round of the Cup event will be entered into the Plate event so that each crew has at least two races. Entries close August 6th 2005. All information regarding the day can be accessed via this link.
5th July 2005 Adam Gill has released the new Staines Regatta 2005 poster. View it and print it here. The regatta itself takes place on Saturday 23rd July 2005.
4th July 2005 I have posted a few photos taken this weekend at Henley Royal Regatta along with some submitted by Ali Lake. See Photographs Page.
3rd July 2005 Spotted at the club today while most members were away enjoying themselves at Henley, was Bob Slade who was repairing the broken boat trestles. A big thankyou from everyone Bob.
30th June 2005 I have posted a few photos taken at last weekend's Egham Regatta. See Photographs Page.
30th June 2005 The ARA website has this article that begins ----- 'Developing an action plan for risk from Lightning -- Rowing clubs and event organisers have a duty to be proactive in their approach to lightning and as such include in their safety plans an action plan that can be implemented when lightning approaches. This would obviously take into account local conditions, but there are some basic recommendations that can be followed'.
29th June 2005 Diane Gill emails ----- I am currently having problems accessing (unable to!) the sbcwomen@hotmail.com email address.  Please could anyone who needs to get hold of Jules or I email Jules at flyjules1876@hotmail.com or me at demy@orange.net / digill@hotmail.com (I am still not back at work after my accident and so will not pick up any emails sent there) or to call me on 07974 774 268.
28th June 2005 Rob Oades reports ----- For the third regatta in a row this year, the Junior squads entry at Egham was severely restricted due to over subscription. The squad felt particularly hard done by as Egham is a regatta we have always fully supported, a feeling made worse on the day by seeing multiple school and club entries in several events were Staines crews had been rejected. However the squad got on with the job, but unfortunately we had only one finalist out of several entries. Emma Corless made the WJ14 1x final and was leading by 3 lengths until Emma's steering let her down. She eventually lost by a canvas. All other crews were beaten in either the first or second rounds, despite good solid performances. Overall not one of our better regattas. Many thanks as usual to all parents for their support - especially those who turned up despite not having their children competing - we have a great spirit in the squad.
28th June 2005 Members may like to keep an eye on the newsgroup rec.sport.rowing where Robin Dunlop has started a link entitled 'HRR Qualification'.
27th June 2005 Egham Regatta took place yesterday and had some very exciting racing for Staines and SWPS crews. Reports are awaited. Full results will be available in due course from the regatta website.
27th June 2005 Kit Officers, Liz and Ali Lake write ----- With Henley rapidly approaching, don't forget to order your SBC ties (£10 each).  If you require a tie please order it and collect it before Thursday night.  We only have a limited number in the kit box and they will be sold on a first come, first served basis. 
27th June 2005 The Tideway Slug has several articles including ones about Henley Royal, Henley Womens and the declaration of membership involving the ARA and freemasonry complete with the new ARA logo.
26th June 2005 Ian Grant reports on last Friday's Henley Royal Regatta pre qualifying rounds ----- The two Staines fours headed up to Henley at lunch time, just as the weather began to change and the resulting rain and thunderstorms caused racing to be delayed by 30mins. The Wyfold four of Robin D, Duncan S, Steve B & were first onto the course but were unfortunately the third fastest non-qualifier by 3 seconds, in a time of 7:04.8. The Britannia four of Ian G, Joe W, Rob S, Dean C, Lucy N, most of whom had never competed at the HRR qualifiers before, took to the water in slightly dryer conditions but unfortunately missed out on qualifying by 9 seconds, in a time of 7:26.1. Thanks go to those who braved traffic and thunderstorms to come and give their support. Full details are available on the HRR website.
25th June 2005 Ian McHugh reports ----- The Men's Vet 'C' eight was the only Staines entry to Richmond Regatta today. The course was 1,250 metres against the stream. Staines got a bye to the final and raced a very youthful looking Twickenham Vet 'C' crew -who had beaten Walbrook by a length in the first round. After a clean start Staines built a half a length lead over the first minute before the race was stopped, owing to a mens coxless four on the course. Following a restart, Staines once again took a lead of about 1/4 length off the start and held Twickenham at bay until the third minute. In the third and forth minutes, Staines had to dig deeper to hold the lead around the outside of the bend against a strong stream. Unfortunately, they were unable to dig deep enough, and Twickenham pushed through to finish with Staines a very respectable one length down. Full results should be available shortly on the regatta website.
23rd June 2005 Duncan Speight writes ----- Could you let people know that I have arranged a bus to go to Henley on the Saturday and there are a few spaces left.  At the moment I think we have about 5 places left.  The bus leaves SBC at 10.30am and leaves Henley at 11.30pm and will cost £15 per person.  It's first come first served so if people are interested better let me know ASAP! djdadventure@yahoo.co.uk
23rd June 2005 Spotted out sculling last evening on the Staines stretch was ex SBC member of the 1980s, Blair Crawford. Currently residing in the USA, Blair approached the landing stage in his sculling boat from the wrong direction and when offered advice about the correct procedure claimed that it was different 20 years ago. Whoops - big mistake to to try and get out of it that way in front of at least 6 long term Staines veterans Blair!!!!!
22nd June 2005 The draw for Egham Regatta which takes place on Sunday 26th June has now been published on the official website. Several Staines and Sir William Perkins's School crews are competing.
21st June 2005 For those of you attending Henley Royal Regatta this year, you may like to take a look at the Rabbit's Guide, the Tideway Slug's definitive alternative guide to HRR.
20th June 2005 Kit Officer, Ali Lake writes ----- A message from the SBC Kit Officers: Please note that due to some SBC members not paying for kit that has already been delivered and worn (despite repeated nagging!) we are now running the kit on a 'no payment = no kit' policy, this will be run with no excuses. Thank you to all those Staines members who have been honest and paid up. Can those SBC members who are wearing Staines kit that has not been paid for (you know who you are and so do we!), please pay up asap. Thanks.
20th June 2005 Rob Oades reports ----- The junior squad were competing at the Thames Valley Park Regatta, Reading this week-end. Unfortunately they were again the victim's of an over-subscribed event with ten of our crews not making the draw. The girls were particularly hard hit with eight failed entries. It just shows how popular rowing is at the moment.
However the squad made the best of what successful entries we did have in very hot weather. Rachel Edwards (WJ16 1x), Rachel Lafbery (WJ14 1x) and Megan Williamson (WJ13 1x) all had good competitive races but failed to reach the finals, as did Andrew Rosser (MJ16 1x), Tom Ryan (MJ15 1x) and Gareth Edwards (MJ13 1x).
James Kell had a good win in his MJ14 1x semi but came third in the final. Andrew Frost made the MJ13 1x final and came second. Andrew was made to wait 40 minutes in his boat in 30+ degree heat before his final and this affected his performance (he was taken ill afterwards and was kept in hospital overnight for severe dehydration and a raised temperature. Best wishes from us all for a speedy recovery.)
So it was left to Nick Pollen and Rob Oades in the MJ15 2x to score a victory (see pic) - and they did this in great style beating some serious opposition. In their semi-final they beat crews from Kingston and Eton Excelsior and in the final they beat Upper Thames and Henley Rowing Clubs. They rowed with great commitment, winning the final by two lengths - a very nice fathers day present for myself and Jeremy. Ted was pleased also - well as pleased as Ted gets !!!.
I would like to thank as always the coach's and parents who again supported the squad in numbers. I would particularly like to thank Ted Dyos and Jeremy Pollen who had a thirteen plus hour day - leaving the club at 7am and not returning until after 8pm. Gentlemen you’re the best! Full results should be available shortly on the regatta website.
20th June 2005 Jodi Davis emails regarding Henley Women's Regatta ----- We would like to thank everyone for the amazing support yesterday - glad we put on an exciting final for you with the right results. I am confident to say we are all still flying high after yesterdays result and definitely enjoyed a few glasses of wine to celebrate. Mostly we would like to thank Gideon for his amazing coaching and support over the last few months - I'm sure coaching us isn't easy all the time. I actually think he was happier than us! Thanks Gid's you are a star. Thank you to our nearest and dearest for all the support, the crews who did training pieces with us and all of you who believed in us. See you back on the water this week as Nationals training begins!    Jodi Davis - P.S If someone can teach me to steer as well that would be great ;-)
20th June 2005 Henley Royal Regatta has released details of the crews required to qualify for the event. The qualifying races take place this Friday 24th June. Staines has 2 crews entered, a Wyfold four racing at 4.20pm and a Britannia four racing at 5.00pm. Anyone wishing to come along and support these crews in their efforts to qualify will be most appreciated. The regatta itself runs between Wednesday 29th June and Sunday 3rd July.
20th June 2005 The draw for Richmond Regatta that takes place next Saturday 25th June 2005 is now available on the regatta website. Staines has a Vet C eight entered that has a bye to the final at 3.30pm.
19th June 2005 Steve Tassell reports ----- Women's Henley 2005 will quite simply be remembered as one of the best on record for Staines Women's Squad.  This year we had 3 entries to the regatta a lightweight scull, a lightweight coxless four and an intermediate eight.  All had proven through trials and the seasons racing that they deserved to be picked for this pinnacle in the Women's rowing calendar.  First up the Intermediate eight of Dom Foley (cox), Sarah Tassell, Katy Young, Suzanne Reng, Katherine Cran, Katy Breslin, Claire Lovelady, Anna Behrendt and Bonny Howes.  They had drawn Osiris (Oxford University) in the first round on Friday morning.  Staines got off to a great start immediately building a canvas lead in the first 15 strokes building to a quarter length lead by the end of the island.  Staines reduced their rating down to 35 and further increased their lead out to 1 length.  Over the remainder of the course Staines continued to sit on Osiris to finally take a half length verdict at the finish.  In the second round they drew Southampton University whom they had been racing all season so knew they had good form.  With this in mind Staines took the race to Southampton over the first half having to hold a sprightly 39 to stay with them.  This could not be held and as the crew lengthend out so Southampton started to pull away and in the end achieved a good win over Staines.  Another solid row equaling last years second round result.  Next up was Lucy Duncombe in lighweight single sculls.  Lucy first stepped back into a sculling boat for Met regatta having proven to be competitive in seat trials.  Lucy's first round opponent was Lane from Derby.  Off the start Lucy took the race to Lane rating some 37 strokes per minute to her 34.  At the end of the island Lane had a quarter length lead over Lucy and as Lucy started to lengthen out Lane pulled out to clear water.  Lane maintained this lead finishing clear at the finish.  This was a great result for Lucy given how little time she's spent in a scull this year.  Last up was the lightweight coxless four of Jodi Davis, Jenny Page, Sarah Fudge and Alison Rolt.  Their first round draw was against Thames whom they had beaten at Met Regatta.  Despite one or two slight steering detours off the start the girls settled into a comfortable rhythm and started to pull out a lead over Thames.  By the time they passed us at Remenham Farm they were well up on Thames by 3 lengths the verdict in the end was 4 lengths in a time of 5:47, 5 seconds quicker than the other heat won by Nottingham University.  This was a great start as some of you may remember two years in a row Staines have been disqualified for steering before reaching the end of the island so it was understandably nervy but a very important result to get under the belt.  Next up on the Sunday was the unkown quantity of Marlow.  On the same station as the day before Staines again got off to a confident start over rating but out powering Marlow.  Again by Remenham Farm the girls had pulled out a 4 length lead and were sitting comfortably on Marlow.  Again they were impressively some 15 seconds quicker than the other semi final again won by Nottingham.  This set up what was to be a great final, not even the strongest of wills could take the nerves we all felt whatching them paddle up to the start.  In stark contrast the girls looked outwardly calm and ready for the race of their lives.  Lined up for the final this time on the Bucks station Staines took a more cautious start than Nottingham with the latter leading by a canvas at the island.  Both crews were then warned for steering with a resulting clash of blades causing the Staines crew to stop and straighten before restarting.  In the meantime Nottingham had eaked out a 2 length lead over Staines.  This move in hindsight proved to be decisive in the outcome of the race, had Staines not stopped they would most likely have been disqualified for steering.  The Staines crew restarted with the bit between their teeth.  They immediately ate into the 2 length lead and with confidence set about rowing through Nottingham.  With 500m to go Staines drew level and started to move past.  The last 200m had a crowd of Staines support on the bank rushing toward the line trying to keep up with the cheers.  In the end a convincing 1 and half length verdict to Staines!  The drama wasn't over however, as Nottingham immediately appealed to the race umpire who listened to their plea.  For a few agonising moments he seem to deliberate over their case and then promptly let the result stand.  Sighting the fact he'd let Nottingham play out the advantage of Staines steering into them and Nottingham gaining a 2 length lead.  It's been too long since a senior crew -men's or women's- has been celebrated for winning such a prestigous event from a club with a proud rowing history and it personally gives me great pleasure to see these girls win knowing the highs and lows they've had coming so close on previous occasions.  A special and important thanks must go to their coach Gideon Shalom who stepped in 2 months ago to take them on as a crew.  Well done to the lightwieght four and to all the girls who raced at Henley this year making it one of the best club results ever. Full results can be found on the Henley Women's Regatta website. Also see Photographs Page.
19th June 2005 Ian Grant reports ----- Marlow Regatta took place at Dorney Lake on Saturday in 33 degree sunny weather with a steadily increasing head wind. Unfortunately the men's squad were suffering from several injuries and illnesses which meant some scratched or subbed entries. The S2 coxed and coxless four of Nick H, Terry M, Adam with Luc W and Gary L swapping in for each race. For both races the crew got off to a solid start, but with tough opposition they finished in fourth place in 7:48.26 and 8:19.26 respectively. The S3 4+ of Ian G, Joe W, Rob S, Dean C and cox, Lucy N, made the most of the best racing weather to lead for the first 1500m but didn't hold the lead finally finishing 2nd by 2secs with a very 'pretty' row, in 7:17.92. In the Repechage, and with something to prove, the crew attacked from the start to get out in front and gained clear water over the other crews before 1000m. The crew finished 1st in 7:35.91 to finally get a place in the final. Unfortunately the crew seemed to suffer the same fate as Tim Henman at Wimbledon and never really found their good form against the all university opposition to finish 4th, in 8:00.69. Thanks go to everyone who came to support in the baking sun. Full results can be found on the Marlow Regatta website.
17th June 2005 The entries for Henley Royal Regatta have now been published on the official website. Staines has 2 crews entered, a Wyfold four and a Britannia four. Qualifying takes place on Friday 24th June.
15th June 2005 Rachel Quarrell's very good New Rowing Information page has the following -'In the UK, the Marlow Regatta commentary team are looking for crew profiles for anyone racing this coming Saturday at their regatta. If any club would like to submit a profile please send it to commentary@themarlowregatta.com'.
13th June 2005 The draw for Marlow regatta which takes place next Saturday 18th June has been published on the official website. Several Staines crews are competing.
13th June 2005 David Dimes reports ----- The Men's "Sprint Squad" finally managed to kick-off their season at Bedford on Sunday with a mixed display of oarsmanship and a fair degree of "Pikeyness". Borrowing a boat / blade and Cox from Weybridge, the crew of Gary Lovejoy, Dom South, Tom Blackman and Dave Dimes proved too strong against St Neots to take the S4 4+ final and pick up their first pots of the season. Initially not having any opposition to race at S3, Weybridge then kindly offered to pull together a crew to race against. With further borrowing of boats / blades from Star Club and a Weybridge Junior to Cox, the Staines crew failed to live up to their earlier performance and were beaten by 2 seconds. Full results can be found on the Star website.
13th June 2005 The Tideway Slug has 'a few shots from behind the scenes at the recent World Cup Regatta at Dorney lake'.
13th June 2005 Liz Bernard reports on the SWPS crews at Marlow Town Regatta ----- Vikki Wardle and Rachel Martin won the WJ15 2x event and Emily and Charlotte lost in the final of WJ14 2x event to Marlow.  Both Rachel and Vikki were in the final of the WJ15 1x, but came 2nd and 3rd. Full results will be available in due course from the official website.
13th June 2005 Pauline Martin submits some photos of SWPS crews taken at the recent National School's Regatta and Saturday's Marlow Town Regatta. See Photographs Page.
10th June 2005 Steve Tassell emails ----- On the back of sightings of wildlife doing strange things I spotted a family of rats on the riverbank by the hard the other day.  What drew my attention to them was one swimming in the water doing lengths across the front of boating area!  Closer inspection showed them up to be North American Rattus Rasmus or long tailed rats as opposed to your common European, Didelphys Crustum or 'short tail' (Stubby).  Don't panic though they're perfectly safe and friendly if approached from the front.  Their staple food is saw dust although sadly they are partial to the occasional egg yolk and have been known to raid bird nests.  Keep your eyes peeled for more rat antics!
10th June 2005 For those of you that are concerned about the weight of your coxswain affecting your crew's performance then check out the Rowing Newsgroup on Google Groups. Look for the thread entitled 'Heavy Cox'. You can also find the link to the rowing newsgroup on our Links Page.
10th June 2005 Roger Pailes advises that while he was coxing a women's four last evening, a small deer swam across the river forcing him to stop the boat. The incident happened just downstream of the motorway bridge by Bell Weir lock. Roger says he has seen deer on several occasions in the past, normally on the Middlesex bank.

9th June 2005

************** IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM THE COMMITTEE **************

Whilst the Committee acknowledges that there is a very real need for at least one new cox box, especially with the busy regatta season coming up, the Committee will not be sanctioning any further spend until it sees a marked improvement in the current attitude of members and until members can behave responsibly with the existing cox boxes. This covers:

- Not holding onto cox boxes longer than necessary: i.e. return on same day as regatta. If you really cannot get back to the Club (most people live in the vicinity so there shouldn't be any excuses), then send it back with the boat trailer. There should be no need for anyone to have a cox box longer than a weekend. It is simply NOT acceptable to wander back with a cox box on the following Wednesday. Such inconsiderate behaviour would potentially leave FOUR possible training sessions devoid of equipment. If an extension is absolutely necessary then see the Captain/Captain of Boats, just as you would for other equipment (e.g. boats).

 - Handling of cox boxes: Cox boxes are currently being sent away to be fixed far too often and at a considerable cost to the Club. So unless you want to pay for one yourself (a new microphone alone is £75 and a new cox box is £425):

- Do NOT pull the connectors out by the wires, gently pull on the plug.

- Do NOT carry the cox box by the microphone (e.g. swinging it).

- Ensure the cox box is protected - use the case to transport it to an event. Slinging it in the bottom of your kit bag or in your boot is likely to result in damage.

 - Charging: There have been numerous occasions where cox boxes have been returned, but not left charging. This is highly inconsiderate for future users and you might as well not return the cox box!! If there is no available charger, do not just leave the box in the cupboard and assume that one will miraculously appear, but raise this issue with the Captain/Captain of Boats.

Let’s have a change in attitude and next month we might have some new equipment.

It all comes down to: THINK, DO NOT EXPECT SOMEONE ELSE TO DO IT FOR YOU.

SBC - YOUR CLUB, YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

8th June 2005 Liz Brett sends this link to some photos of the Walton Regatta she has posted on the beanpix.com website.
8th June 2005 Rob Oades adds this note regarding Walton Regatta ----- After the disappointment of Twickenham Regatta, were most of the Junior events were cancelled, the Junior boys were out in full force at Walton. Some hard racing followed with many near misses. One good victory was recorded in the MJ12 1x by Andrew Frost. This brings the total wins of the Junior Squad this regatta season so far to 17.
8th June 2005 Liz Bernard sends this report ----- SWPS had 7 crews competing at Weybridge Ladies Regatta on Sunday 5th June.  It was the first regatta for the J13’s who performed really well in the WJ13 4x+, where they won two heats and gained a place in the semi-finals.  The quad consisted of Grace Ward, Vicky Avery, Bertie Fagent, Francesca Pavliv and coxed by Alice Cox.   There was some good sculling from the J14’s and J15’s, especially from Charlotte Jackson and Emily Baker who sculled with great determination to win the WJ14 2x event. We had no other wins, but we had some really close heats.  Congratulations to all who competed.
7th June 2005 Peter Smith reports on the junior entries in Weybridge Ladies Regatta ----- The Junior Ladies all raced well against a very strong field of Clubs and Schools, our only win came in the WJ16 1X from Rachel Edwards. All of our girls raced well, reaching many finals, Jennifer Goldswain racing six times in four hours over the 1000M course only to lose the final.
7th June 2005 Steve Tassell advises ----- This year we have three crews entered for Women's Henley.  These are, Women's Intermediate Eights consisting of Dom Foley (cox), Sarah Tassell, Katy Young, Suzanne Reng, Katherine Cran, Katy Breslin, Claire Lovelady, Anna Behrendt, Bonny Howes.  A lightweight coxless four of Jodi Davis, Jenny Page, Sarah Fudge, Alison Rolt and lastly lightweight scull of Lucy Duncombe.  The eight and scull are racing on the Friday (the eight races at 10:50am against Osiris and Lucy races at 12:55pm against Lane of Derby Rowing Club).  The coxless four race on Saturday at 3:06pm against Thames.  On behalf of everyone at the club good luck to all the girls racing and representing Staines BC at Henley!
7th June 2005 Ian Grant gives us the men's squad report from last weekend ----- The men’s squad descended to Dorney Lake for the Metropolitan Regatta weekend, with some tough windy conditions on both days. The Lwt4- of Robin D, Mark S, Duncan S and Mark AW, first took to the water for the S1 4- against some big opposition but missed out on a top 3 position for a place in the semi-finals finishing 4th, in 6:43.53. For their S2 4- race it was a race of the Remenham clubs against London ,Thames and Twickenham. After a good first 1000m taking second place London began to move through and they finished 3rd, in 6:43.32, just missing a place in the final. The 4+ of Ian G, Joe W, Rob S, Dean C, decided to only enter the S2 4+ event after having injury problems during the week, and after a good first 1000m holding third place for nearly all the race got blown onto the buoys and lost their form and eventually missed out on a place in the semi finals by just ½ a length to finish 4th, in 6:59.71. Last up was the S2 2x of Max S and Fikret O , with some tough opposition and choppy water they pushed all the way to finish 4th, in 7:39.42.
The Sunday saw the Lwt 4- again enter S1 and S2. In the S1 race they unfortunately got blown around in the wind and ended up changing lanes and being disqualified. For their S2 race they had a better row but holding just over a length behind the winners to finish 4th, in 6:39.31. Steve B took to the water for S3 1x and after a nervous start, powered over the course to take 4th. In the repacharge, with slightly more choppy conditions, Steve was given a glimpse of hope when the 2nd place sculler caught a crab just before the finish for Steve to finished 6th, in 7:58.33. The S2 2x had a straight final today against some tough opposition and after a few tips from bob, produced a good race to finish 5th 7:29.72. Two 4+ crews raced in both S2 and S3 categories. The B crew of Helge N, Andrew , Terry M and Nick H unfortunately missed their S3 heat due to technical problems but were managed to get to the start for their S2 race, but found the racing tough going and finished , in 7:13.17. The A crew’s S2 race was again hard going as they struggled to find their good form from Saturday and finished 6th, in 7:12.34. In their S3 race, after being in 4th place off the start, they to moved through the competition and finish in second place, just half a length behind the winners, in 6:56.12, the second fastest time of the finalists. The only mistake was made by Bob on the bank after receiving a warning from the umpire after getting a bit carried away with his amount of support. In the final the crew again were forth off the start but as before, moved through the field into second place and just managed to hold off a final change from the far lanes to take second in 7:04.91. Our thanks go to all who came on both days, in not ideal weather, to give their support.
7th June 2005 Steve Tassell emails this report from the Metropolitan Regatta ----- A majority of the women's squad were at Met regatta this weekend.  We had representation in Senior 3 eights, Senior 1 coxless fours and Senior 3/lwt sculls.  First off was Lucy Duncombe in Senior 3 sculls.  Lucy was rowing in a borrowed boat some 20kgs too big for her so it was more about getting out and racing 2000m for the first time this season rather than making any moves on the front runners.  With the tricky tail wind this made for a tough first test but one Lucy came through with only a few battle scars!  Next up was the Women's eight of Dom Foley (cox), Sarah Tassell, Katy Young, Suzanne Reng, Katherine Cran, Katy Breslin, Claire Lovelady, Anna Behrendt and Bonny Howes.  Staines got off to a solid start lying second to the 250m marker.  Progress to 500m saw the eventual winners York City pull out 7 second lead with us, University of York and Osiris 'B' vying for the other two qualification spots.  It was at this point we were discovering the difference between training and racing and started to slip back over the middle 1000m to fourth which was ultimately where we finished just outside qualifying.  Sunday saw Lucy racing lightweight in a very strong field, with better conditions she managed to qualify for the repecharge.  In the repecharge again she struggled with her oversized boat but put in a solid performance none the less.  Next a chance for the women's eight to improve on Saturday's performance.  They got of to a decent start drawn next to the previous days winner and the relative unknown Sons of the Thames.  First split was 1:46 matching the day before but then a loss of concentration as we got into our own private battle with Sons of the Thames which we won but finishing fourth and again just missing out on a qualifying spot.  Last up was the coxless four with a line up of Jodi Davis, Jen Page, Sarah Fudge and Alison Rolt.  There's a distinct lack of women's coxless fours around at the moment resulting in this being a straight final race between 3 crews us, Durham University and Thames.  The four got off to a good (straight!) start and immediately started to open up a lead on Thames.  Settling down into their race rhythm targeting a quick Durham crew who were opening up a lead on the rest of the field. As the race progressed the positions stayed the same with Durham, Staines and then Thames and clear water between each crew.  Thanks again for the loyal and growing fan club on the banks! Full results are available from the official website.
5th June 2005 Liz Lake emails this report from Walton Regatta ----- Us girls (Leanne Johns, Michelle O'Riordan, Ali and Liz Lake) turned up to Walton facing the unknown. Racing WS4+ we thought we had a reasonable chance of being competitive but were very unsure.  We got off to a great start taking half a length off the Quintin crew in the first 20 strokes.  By the half way mark we had pulled up an extra length and were sitting on the crew comfortably.  With no pressure on us to 'pull hard' or to 'push for the finish' we were able to concentrate on our 'new technique focus' (thanks to Jodi) and this only gave our boat extra run.  By the end of a very well coxed race by our very own Junior Charlotte Morrison we won the Semi by 2 lengths.  Onto the final against another Staines Crew.  We were very nervous as we knew we would be racing the girls we had trained and raced with for all the winter season.  At the start we all giggled and had some fun with each other and even discussed that the race could only be won by the crew that rated 4 over the finish line, or the potential of backing it down the course.  I think it was at this point that someone suggested that we may get a better time if we did!  Offended it was then that we sat up and started taking it seriously.  The crews were both started quickly and neither crew were ready which made for both crews not to get a particularly good start, both crews fought to get back in control and by the end of the course our crew had won the final.  The one thing that we had all commented on during the day was the amount of support we received from other members of the club that were present at the regatta, not just cheering for us on the bank but help throughout the day.  Thank you to everyone that made it a fantastic day and to Ian, Steve and Jodi for the coaching you have given us over the last few weeks.
5th June 2005 I have posted a few photos taken at Weybridge Ladies Regatta today. See Photographs Page. Full results will be available in due course from the official website.
5th June 2005 Full results are now available for yesterday's Walton Regatta and show 3 good wins for Staines crews. See the official results here.
4th June 2005 Roy Frost sends this link to his photographs on the Kodak Easy Share Gallery, taken at today's Walton Regatta.
4th June 2005 Craig Twaddle writes ----- There is an increasing number of bikes being stored at the back of the boathouse and they are getting in the way when getting sculling boats in and out. Could those concerned please remove them as they can't all be being used for coaching purposes. There is plenty of room outside for bikes. Thanks.
28th May 2005 Due to commitments away from home, I will not be able to update this website until Saturday 4th June. I would be grateful, to anyone who submits news or reports in the meantime, if they are written in a manner which could be pasted in the relevant section. This will save me time upon my return. Thanks - - Graham
27th May 2005 The 3 day National Schools Regatta began today. Sir William Perkins's School had a J15G2x racing in a very competitive event with 27 crews entered. The crew, Vikki Wardle and Rachel Martin, won the first eliminator race in a time of 3:58.14 and followed it up with another first place win in the semi final in a time of 4:02.68. The final saw 6th place in a consistent time of 4:04.04 but was not fast enough to catch the girls from Warrington and Strathclyde who went on to take the first 2 places. The school will be racing a coxed quad tomorrow. Full results can be found on the official website.
27th May 2005 Cygnets have finally been hatched from the swan's nest in the corner of the club grounds (see photo). There are no reports as yet as to the number of cygnets that have successfully made the long journey, for those with little legs, across the lawn to the Thames.
26th May 2005 Ian Grant emails ----- I would just like to pass on the thanks from the NV 4+ from Brunel Uni to everyone who went to Twickenham for their kind hospitality, support and the lift to the regatta. They really enjoyed their first regatta, unfortunately being knocked out in the semi's by the eventual winners, but hope to make an entry at Staines regatta this summer.
25th May 2005 The swans nesting on the club lawn are reaching the time for eggs hatching and cygnets leaving the nest. Could anyone seeing this occurance please count the number of offspring, take a photo if possible and let me know.
25th May 2005 For those of you thinking of attending the World Cup racing at Dorney this week, the FISA website has details of ' Who to Watch'.
25th May 2005 Robin Dunlop emails with this message from Mark Simpson ----- If anyone would like to help themselves to the straw outside the boat club for compost, rabbits etc. please help themselves generously!
24th May 2005 The draw for the National Schools Regatta which takes place on Friday 27th, Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th May 2005 has now been published. Sir William Perkins's School have entered 3 crews, a J14G2x, a J15G2x and a J15G4x+.
24th May 2005 Nick Hadwen emails this report on behalf of the mens squad from Twickenham Regatta ----- The mens squad turned up to Twickenham on mass with a S38+, S44+,S24+, two S4 2X and a NV4+. First off was the NV4+ early in the morning , the first race for most of the crew. The guys put in a spirited performance in their first race but lost out to Eastbourne college's first crew who went on to win the event. All in all a great row with lots to come in the future - and in the Sims boat Graham Carey. Afterwards they were heard to say 'What's all the fuss with sitting this boat!' Well done Damian, Adam, Paul and Adrian see you at the next one.
Next off was the S38+ versus Downing college. The 8 got off to a great start pushing through to a length and a half up off the start. Downing never could quite recover and the 8 won the heat comfortably.
The S44+ of Ian, Joe, Rob and Dean coxed by Lucy drove through the opposition in the heat winning by two lengths. Not satisfied with that they did the same in the semi destroying the opposition with a great exhibition of long rowing. The tension was on and would they be able to sustain their form in the final. The oppo was Cambridge 99 and it was close out of the blocks but the Staines crew pushed away at the 500 and then again at the 750. By the time they came past the trailers they were a length and a half ahead and even the last corner didn't let Cambridge get anything back. A fantastic row and well earned pots. For Rob Sorrel (nice one) this was his first point and not the last this season if this is anything to go by! The S24+ unfortunately didnt fair as well versus a good S2 crew from Thames losing out by 2.5 lengths.
This left us two doubles and the eights final...For Dom and Tom this was their first outing as a racing double and although they put in a spirited row the Quintin crew beat them to go through to the final. With a bye in the first round the final was versus another Staines double, this time Fikret and Max, also their first outing and keen to have a go at the Quintin crew. After Quintin pushed ahead after the first 500 Staines settled and pulled back a bit but the more experienced Qunitin crew managed to held them to win race. Next stop Walton for some revenge!
The 8s final was was the race left and another story. This time on the outside knowing the corner would favour Wadham they pushed out of the blocks alongside but disaster struck and after rowing 15 strokes with only six men the crew got it together again surging forward. Through the 500 and on to the 750 they hauled Wadham back in again edging closer and closer but the corner took its toll and Wadham finshed a length up. Verdict ...next time!All in all a great english 'summer day' of racing with some good results and experience gained. What was really good to see was the whole club being represented mens,vets,womens and junior squads ... and as usual Staines was the loudest on the bank! See you all at the next one and Well Done the womens novice 8 !
23rd May 2005 Steve Tassell sends this report from Twickenham Regatta ----- For the women's squad Twickenham represented a last chance for those wanting to be considered for Henley crews to show their form.  And on the face of it it looks like the girls moved things on from Bedford the previous weekend.  In all three events we saw much more determined rows.  First up the Senior 3 four, consisting of Katy Young (nee Burke), Suzanne Reng, Cath Burke and Sarah Tassell.  We got off to a great start taking half a length off the Broxbourne crew taking the race to them as we knew we had the outside of the bend.  Unfortunately though the crew never really settled in to their race rhythm and although they were level going into the infamous Middlesex bend the result inevitably went to Broxbourne.  Next up was the Senior 3 eight.  This time on the Middlesex station racing Twickenham, we got off to a poor start and from there on were chasing after Twickenham in what was a very nervy race.  Both these races were coxed by Charlotte Jackson from Sir William Perkins, the first time she has ever coxed adults in a sweep oar race!  My hat off to her she did a superb job and really did show control and leadership over her crews despite being some 15 years (at least!) their younger.  Last up was the novice eight, containing, Di Gill (cox), Katja Norman, Lucy Duncombe, Claire Lovelady, Suzanne McKenna, Bonny Howes, Sue Meacock-Fletcher, Rosie Andrews and Jackie Hawkins.  First up Barnes Bridge Ladies.  We had a solid start to immediately cancel out their half length stagger off the start and straight away settled down into a confident and long 34.  Staines pulled out a quarter length lead whilst BB worked on a big push to go level again.  Impressively the ladies kept their heads and pushed on again out to a canvas and then a half length at which point the bend kicked in handing us a length and half verdict.  A quick turnaround to go race the final against Twickenham who knocked the favoured Thames novice crew (half of which had come 80th in the WEHORR and winning the novice pennant).  Staines again got off to a great start relaxing into a strong rhythm again, with nothing to lose the crew seemed to grow an extra foot rowing longer and longer.  If the round before had been confident this was verging on supreme arrogance as the confidence flowed!  The boat kept surging further forward each stroke and in the end Twickenham couldn't keep up with the pace, the verdict in the end 2 and half lengths.  The win itself was impressive but even more so as for Suzanne and Sue it was their second regatta and for Rosie her first!  I'm especially pleased for the other girls in the boat who thoroughly deserved their novice pot on many previous occasions but this time came out on top.
23rd May 2005 If you have a broadband connection then why not try ROWTV who have video clips online of many of the races at Twickenham Regatta.
22nd May 2005 Bob Hopkins emails attaching 3 photos taken at yesterday's Twickenham Regatta and Guy Pedliham sends several of his images. See Photographs Page.
20th May 2005 Carl Boon writes ----- Walton Regatta (UK - 4th June) is able to offer a 20% discount on entry fees for any club entering at least 4 boats. Entries close on 28th May at 10pm. This info isn't yet on the website but the news came from the regatta treasurer, Andrew Ruddle, to all of us on the regatta committee.
19th May 2005 The next time a cruiser sounds his horn at you on the river, you will know what to do if you read the Tideway Slug. The slug has a a list of sound signals used by power driven vessels, to indicate their own intended actions to other vessels (and that includes rowing boats).
18th May 2005 The Thames Regional Rowing Council website now has a link to the World Cup Junior Offical Selection & Rota (pdf file) in which several Staines juniors have been selected.
 18th May 2005 The website for the BearingPoint World Cup which takes place on the 26-28th May advises that grandstand tickets for Saturday 28th May (only) are now sold out. Saturday Tickets are still available for the enclosure area which will give a good view of the finish and big screen.
 17th May 2005 Luc Wilson advises that even though there are no rats at Staines BC, as a precautionary measure, rat poison has been laid inside the boat house. Please can you avoid touching it if at all possible. Could all dog/ children owners please be especially aware. The box, including emergency instructions, has been placed in the kitchen. Regards Luc
16th May 2005 Steve Tassell reports ----- The Women squad were at two regattas this weekend with mixed fortunes.  Firstly at Docklands Regatta the coxless four won it's mixed status straight final against AK in convincing form.  This was the first outing for the four and bodes well for future regattas.  Next up we had several crews entered at Bedford regatta.  Firstly the Novice eight where half the crew were first season novices in their first race.  The crew of Jackie Hawkins, Lucy Duncombe, Bonny Howes, Anna Behrendt, Nikki Mellor, Sue Meacock-Fletcher, Kate Rumbold and Suzanne McKenner (oh and me coxing!)  The crew fought well to cancel out the stagger off the start and pushed the opposition hard all the way to the line only to lose by 1/4 of a length.  Next up was the Senior 4 eight.  With a majority of the crew the same as the one that raced S4 so well in WEHORR (Katy Breslin, Lucy Duncombe, Catherine Lake, Jen Edmunds, Bonny Howes, Ali Lake, Jackie Hawkins, Anna Behrendt) we were expecting great things, however, a case of first race nerves and pressure of expectation saw the crew knocked out in the first round.  In the fours we faired better in both cases losing to the event winners.  In S3 coxed fours a last minute substitution for Di Gill (Katherine Cran, Suzanne Reng, Cath Burke and Sarah Tassell) lost to Thames and in the Senior 2 coxed fours, again a substitution for Di Gill (Katherine Cran, Suzanne Reng, Katy Breslin and Sarah Tassell) faired well against Sons of the Thames, giving them their closest race of the day but still losing by 1 1/2.  On the face of it we learnt a lot from the weekend and it's now a question of giving others a chance to race at Twickenham before final selection of crews is made for Henley and the summer regattas.  Final thanks to our loyal fan club Dom South and Tom Blackman who were leading the Staines cheers from the riverbank! Full results can be found on the Bedford Amateur Regatta website and the Mikrotime website (for Docklands).
16th May 2005 The River and Rowing Museum in Henley is holding its annual women's rowing lecture at 7.00 for 7.30pm on Tuesday 14th June. Entitled ' In the medal zone of the Athens Olympics' it will be given by Alison Mowbray, silver medallist in the quadruple scull. The cost will be £7.50 (£6 members) and includes coffee.
16th May 2005 Several Staines crews are entering Twickenham Regatta this Saturday 21st May. The draw has taken place and will be published shortly on the regatta website.
13th May 2005 Roy Frost sends this link to his photographs on the Kodak Easy Share Gallery, taken during and after the Ball Cup at Dorney last weekend.
12th May 2005 Membership Secretary, Craig Twaddle emails ----- Thanks to Mike Pattinson who has made a donation to the Boat Fund in his membership renewal. Also thanks to Rob Oades who has obtained £1500 for the club through the BP Matchtime scheme. The committee has agreed that this £1500 will go towards a new 2x for the Junior Squad.
12th May 2005 Club President, Don Moore forwards this interesting letter from Howard Clark in Australia ----- Hello Don, I don't believe I have had the pleasure of meeting you but you would probably have known my father, Reg Clark, who was also President of SBC once upon a time. We used to live at no 38 Riverside Drive( formerly no 22) and Reg rowed for Staines in the late 40 s. I still have two of his pint pots won in 1948 and 1950. I also have a half pint pot I won in1962! I was tickled recently, whilst browsing, to see a photo on the SBC site of a Staines crew in which I sat in the mid-sixties with my name attached. Also one of my father standing alongside a crew in front of the clubhouse. I don't remember a lot of names from that era, but some I do recall are George and Gwenny Smith, Ted and Freddy Dyos, Robin Thompson, Penny Chuter, Brian Griffin, Bill Royon, Mike Pattinson. I remember many other faces (who were the two brothers notorious at Remenham in ' 64 as the "Rolling Staines" because of their supposedly outrageously long hair? I went on to row with some success in later years and last sat in a boat some five years ago at Sydney Rowing Club ! I moved to Sydney 15 years ago and am now retired but am kept very busy by my almost 10 year old daughter. Reg passed away 12 years ago but not before he had managed a visit here. I would be delighted to hear from anyone from the 50s or 60s who remembers me and would like to get in touch with me at howardclark@bigpond.com and would be grateful if you would pass this on to whoever you might think appropriate. Many thanks Howard Clark
11th May 2005 Rob Oades advises that 8 of our Staines Boat Club juniors have finally been chosen to help at this months Rowing World Cup at Dorney. Staines Boat Club are the best represented of all clubs supplying juniors for the start team. The ones chosen are: Rob Oades, Thomas Oades, Rebecca Corless, Charlotte Morrison, Emma Parkes, Nick Pollen, James Kell and Jennifer Goldswain. Each will help on at least two days of the event with Rob, Nick, Jenny, James & Charlotte doing all three days - including the all important finals day.
11th May 2005 Bar Officer, Terry Moore writes ----- Hi guys, Just a reminder that this Saturday 14/5/05 is the second Beer Festival at the Boat Club. The cost is a mere £10.00 for all the real beer that you can drink... Also this year (due to moans last year) we are including Wine... At the same cost. Please contact Terry, Dom or Bonny to buy Tickets. Hope to see you there, if not you can always make a donation. Cheers Terry (hic). - Social Secs, Dom & Bon add -- It would be great to see as many members as possible for the Beer/Wine Festival on Saturday.  Look forward to seeing everyone at the boat club from 7:30pm onwards.  Tickets are also available on the door.  Dom & Bon
10th May 2005 Craig Twaddle emails ----- Here's a