Deben Rowing Club

Vesta Scullers' Head, 2011

2011-12-04T21:30:00.004Z

On Saturday, Emilie, Malcolm and Spence took part in the Scullers' Head on the Thames.

For those that don't know, the Vesta Scullers' Head is the largest single-division processional single sculls race in the world, and is held over the 4.25 mile championship course from Mortlake to Putney. First sculled in 1954, this year’s race involved almost 500 scullers, attracting entries from all over the United Kingdom and the world, with standards ranging from internationals to novices.

Provisional results suggest that alll three Deben scullers did fantastically well, with Emilie winning her category, Malcolm coming 4th in his, and Spence also getting a cracking time.

Very well done to you all!!

Full results can be found here.

Here is Emilie in action!

DRC on Deben Radio

2011-11-07T13:39:00.001Z

Deben Radio is a community radio station currently available via the internet, covering news and events in and around the Woodbridge area. Each month a 45 minute sports programme is compiled by Dee McLeavy covering all the activities in the area. This includes reports from the Shufflers, Woodbridge Rugby Club, the football club and swimming club, among others.

DRC is represented by Catherine Larner, giving a report on our activities over the previous four weeks. You can listen to October's report here

Or listen to the full round-up by going to http://www.debenradio.com/ and clicking on the October Sports Programme.

Catherine will be recording each report in the final week of each month, so if anyone has ideas for contributions, they should let her know by emailing catherine@catherinelarner.com

We also plan to record a feature item about the club in the next few weeks.

Norfolk Sculls

2011-10-31T17:53:00.009Z

This weekend saw some Deben members heading back to Norwich, this time for the Norfolk Sculls.

Megan Stocker, Neil Cawthorn and Michael Streat, James Parkinson (pictured left) and the Wix-es all took part, some of them competing in two events.

Emilie and Spence (shown below with their pots) won the Mixed IM2 doubles event in a time of 22:14 and Emilie came second in the Women's IM2 single sculls event with a time of 23:33. I'm sure you'll all agree that these are fantastic results and well-deserved considering all the training they have put in since joining the club and learning to row earlier this year. The first of many pots for these two, we hope...

Many thanks also to Ed English who learnt to row at DRC and very kindly sent these pictures to me, even though he now rows at Norwich.

Suffolk Young Sports Personality, 2011

2011-10-21T11:21:00.002+01:00

And the winner is... CLIO!

Yare Cup, 24 September 2011

2011-09-27T13:08:00.003+01:00

The annual Yare Cup took place in Norwich last weekend and two crews from DRC took part, with James P. also going along to support them and film the action.

In the Men's Open 4+ category with a time of 16:55 were Mark S., Guy P., Ken A. and Tristan C. with Sue S. coxing. Here they are in action:

Untitled from James Parkinson on Vimeo.

Emilie and Spence competed twice, once in the Mixed 2x (with a time of 16:08) and once in the Novice 2x, for which their time was 16:09. Well done on your first races and we look forward to seeing the red and yellow socks in action again soon!

Here is a video of Emilie and Spence in action with a couple of additions to the DRC kit:

Untitled from James Parkinson on Vimeo.

Goodbye and Good Luck to School Leavers

2011-09-21T13:14:00.002+01:00

This summer sees long-time junior members Clio Aubugeau-Williams, Em Chitock, Chris Lawrence and Hannah Shire leaving school and heading out into the world. They have all been a great asset to the club and it has been a privilege to see them growing up during their time at DRC.

Since joining the club 5 years ago Clio, in particular, has made a startling progression winning 18 'pots' and 12 medals, as well as representing GB for the past 2 years. In recognition of this achievement and as Clio will shortly head to UCL, with rowing at Imperial College, the committee awarded Clio life membership on Saturday 17 September, 2011.

The committee is very appreciative of the contributions made by all the school leavers and we look forward to welcoming them back as students during their holidays, joining the growing number of out-of-county university student members of the club.

Good luck!

2011 AGM

2011-09-21T13:12:00.000+01:00

This will be held at 8pm on 27 October at the club and formal notification will be sent out shortly. If you are interested in joining the committee, please speak to William or any of the existing committee members.

Any motions to be discussed are to be lodged with Nicola Notcutt no later than 25 September.

European Medals for Clio

2011-08-08T22:53:00.003+01:00

Rather belated congratulations to Clio for winning two European Gold Medals and one Silver Medal with her crews at the Coupe de la Jeunesse in Austria!!

British Rowing Championships, 2011

2011-07-18T17:34:00.004+01:00

Chris Jillings reports:

Congratulations to Clio for coming home from the weekend's racing with two Silver medals!

Her GB Junior quad raced in a straight final for the Women's 4x, but were dealt a lesson from the gun by a powerful Nottingham crew. They were, however, comfortably the next best boat.

At the end of the day, in the finale Women's 8+ event, her GB Junior boat cruelly had gold snatched from their grasp as their half-length lead evaporated with 500m to go, when one of her team-mates caught a whopper! They mounted a spirited attack but lost by half a length - boo hoo!

Clio heads to the Coupe!

2011-06-30T13:18:00.005+01:00

As many of you will know, Clio has been continuing to race and train hard throughout the course of this year, as well as attending the GB squad trials. She has broken many pbs and won races at a very high level.

In the last few weeks she has raised her game even further, winning a silver medal at the National Schools' Championships; winning the Senior Quads at Henley; and being selected to be part of the GB quad that is going to compete in the Coupe de la Jeunesse in Austria.

Oh, and somewhere in the midst of all of this, she has also found time to study for and take her A-levels!

Shown here: Clio and Chris with the Henley Senior Quads trophy.

Supporters' Plaque

2011-06-17T13:53:00.003+01:00

The sign to go on the boathouse to thank our kind supporters will soon be completed.

If you, your friends or contacts would also like to immortalise yourself of your company by having your name added to this sign, there is still time to do so!

A panel can be yours for £250.00. Please get in touch with Ken Anderson on 01394 384149 or leave a cheque made out to 'Deben Rowing Club' with your details at the club house.

Learning to Row at DRC

2011-06-17T13:23:00.005+01:00

Ed English, who took part in a Learn to Row course at DRC earlier this year, reports on his experiences:

'My general thoughts are that the way that Deben run the LTR course is very good, with a high standard of beginner boats, which enable new rowers to find their feet without the risk of capsizing.

Working up from very stable 'tub' boats to Explore singles allowed me to continue to work on my sculling technique whilst also getting a feel for the river. The coaches were also flexible about when the 8 sessions could take place – this helped enormously, allowing people to fit in rowing around other commitments and complete the course in our own time. The small numbers of people on the course helped as it meant that more one to one coaching was available (many thanks to James, Tim and John for their patience with me), and I could consistently get in the same boat whenever I was going out on the water.

There were some extra challenges that I had to overcome when first navigating on the Deben: wind, tide, mud and various other types of boats. This was quite a challenge whilst also learning to scull in single craft, however, long term it has made me a much better sculler/rower, and other rivers seem relatively simple to row on in comparison. For example, I have now moved to Norwich and although I have been rowing for 6 or 9 months less than many of the novices there, it is quite rare for them to get out in single sculls, so I have found myself the senior man in a double on more than one occasion, desperately trying to remember what the guys at Deben taught me. Therefore, post LTR, my number one piece of advice to anyone would be to get into a fine single as soon as possible, as it has improved my balance and confidence immensely, despite the odd impromptu swimming lesson!

Overall, Learning to Row has given me a new lease of life and real get up and go. The only issue is that at the moment I can't seem to be on the water enough. I don't mind what boat I'm in, be it a single, or an 8, just as long as those I'm rowing with do it with a smile on their face.'

Olivia makes a Splash on and off the Water

2011-06-14T21:33:00.003+01:00

Following an exciting start at the Suffolk Indoor Rowing Champs. earlier this year, Olivia (shown here with James) took part in one of the club's Learn to Row courses and is now enjoying getting out on the river.

On 26 March 2011 Olivia won the under 13 category in the SIRC, achieving a distance of 684m in a set time of 3 minutes on the ergo. This was an especially good result as she had never been on an indoor rowing machine before and this time puts her in the top 20 nationally for year 8 girls.

We look forward to seeing more great things from her over the summer.

The Fashion Swap Event, April 30th

2011-03-25T13:13:00.002Z

DRC are proud to present:

THE FASHION SWAP EVENT

Saturday 30th April, 2-5pm

DRC Clubhouse, The River Wall, Woodbridge

Swap your unwanted clothes for up to 5 others of your choice!

There will also be 3 boutiques offering a wide range of accessories etc.

Tea, coffee and cake will be available

Entry fee: £5 (£2 for juniors)

Proceeds go to Deben Rowing Club

For further information, contact Sue Stockton: 07515 008760

Training at Clare College and Clio in WHORR, 2011

2011-03-23T22:19:00.005Z

On Saturday 19 March over 20 DRC members enjoyed a training day hosted by Clare College, Cambridge. After a short welcome by Clare Boat Club President, Nigel Woodcock, DRC started the first outing of the day in a men's VIII, a women's IV (featuring Jane Gotts on her return from long-term injury - welcome back, Jane!) and a veteran men's IV. Those DRC members who had not done sweepoar rowing before were coached by CBC personnel on the bank and in tub pairs. After a light lunch, at which Nigel talked to our junior members about the attractions of Oxbridge rowing (including no subscriptions or race entry fees!), the training started again. The men's VIII personified two of the key qualities of rowing - "quick and slick" with Messrs Morel, Pidd, Higbee and Swain adding the "long and strong". The veteran mens IV adopted the maxim of "mileage makes champions" but actually the mileage in second outing merely made the crew tired! A mixed VIII, which included the novices in the party and was coxed by Nigel, looked amazingly composed - a real triumph!

The sessions gave our two home-grown coxes, Sue Stockton and Catherine Larner, opportunities to hone their skills as their previous outings on the Cam in the Cambridge Winter Leagues had featured all river traffic going in the same direction. But, both steered excellently and Clare's beautifully maintained equipment was all returned in one piece.

The day concluded with a presentation to Nigel and the Clare boatman, Anton Wright, by DRC's Nick Redman. Nick rowed at Clare over 30 years ago but he still recalls the Clare motto, "Cave Adsum". With a weakening grasp of Latin, he translates this as "Watch Out - I've Arrived!" - pretty appropriate for DRC's growing sweepoar squad!

On the same day, Clio Aubergeau-Williams swapped the tasteful red and yellow colours of DRC for the University of London's bright purple having been invited to row for the University in the Womens' Head of the River Race in London - another test against the best for Clio.

Thanks also to Nick Redman for organising the day at Clare and for contributing the report above.

Suffolk Indoor Rowing Champs, 26th March 2011

2011-02-01T22:02:00.001Z

DRC is proud to once more host the Suffolk Indoor Rowing Championships.

Please click here for the full poster.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Indoor Rowing Champs - Help Required!

2011-02-01T21:54:00.003Z

Hi All,

As you should be aware from emails, the Indoor Rowing Champs. will now be held on 26th March at 5pm.

It is Boat Race day, so there is plenty of scope for rowing, watching the Boat Race and then enjoying the Indoor Champs too.

Last year we were lucky to have lots of people helping out both on the day and in advance, and hopefully this year will be the same - whether you feel like taking money on the day, serving tea and cake, or just encouraging your friends to come along, everything you can do will help to make it a success.

Please click here to see more details of the help that's required.

Committee Vacancies

2011-02-01T21:50:00.002Z

There are currently two vacancies on the DRC committee: Rowing Captain and Membership Secretary.

Please click here for a link to descriptions of each role and for more information.

Do have a think about applying - your club needs YOU!

Learn to Row!

2011-01-20T22:59:00.005Z

Want to learn to row? Come on one of our special training courses.

The next course starts Saturday 19th March and will comprise 8 sessions over 4 weeks in Explore Rowing boats.

Please contact Tim Earnshaw if you are interested (timothy.earnshaw@reuters.com) or would like more information.

Club Update, Jan 2011

2011-01-20T22:37:00.003Z

Please click here to view an update from our chairman or see below.

Clio Takes National Title

2010-12-06T10:25:00.005Z

The last couple of weekends have seen our young superstar shine ever more brightly with stunning performances in her sculling boat.

The first trip was to a cold and gloomy Boston for the first in the series of four Junior Squad Trials, this one being a 5k time trial in single sculls. 72 girls had qualified from their ergo times and when the results sheet finally came out Clio was a fantastic 8th place!

The reward for such hard work followed a few days later with an invitation to attend the pre-Christmas Junior Worlds training week in Nantes, France, along with 11 other of her potential GB team members.

The following weekend the show was on the road again, heading for The Sculler's Head in London. Normally, many of the top juniors go to Hampton Junior Head that weekend, to race in small boats and demonstrate their speed in front of the Head Junior Coach, but with this being Clio's last Junior year, and with Clio being brilliant over long distances, CJ decided to put her into The Sculler's Head instead.

Going off through Chiswick bridge as the first Junior Woman, Clio could watch her main rivals and race those that mattered over the whole 4.25 mile 'Boat race' course, finishing just before Putney bridge, on a lovely quiet, sculling morning with very little breeze. What a stunning achievement! Our girl won the WJ title in a time of 25 minutes dead, comfortably clear of the next competitor and takes the pennant in what is easily the toughest event on the head race calendar.

Absolutely fantastic, Clio - WELL DONE!

Senior Men's Squad

2010-11-19T14:19:00.002Z

There is now a Senior Men’s Squad formed of those wishing to commit to a regular squad, but whose time is limited due to family/work commitments. It meets at 7.45am every Saturday, boats at 8am, and is back off the water by 10am.

Participants will usually be taking part in other sporting activities during the week, whether cycling, running, fencing, football, etc. but 'homework' is also set of up to one hour of activity in your own time during the week, usually involving an ergo.

Plans for the squad are the Cambridge Winter League, competing in IVs, and whilst there, practising in an VIII. If possible, we hope to put in a crew for the Head of the River Race on the Tideway in March.

Further information from Neil Cawthorn:
Tel (evenings): 01473 736 278
E-mail: Neil.cawthorn@hopehousesuffolk.org.uk

Suffok Coastal Sports Awards, 2010

2010-09-20T22:58:00.006+01:00

Last night was a big night for DRC at the Suffolk Coastal Sports Awards ceremony.

Clio and Terry were both nominated in the individual categories and DRC was also put forward for the club award.

DRC was a runner up in its group and Clio won the Young Sports Personality of the Year award. She will now go forward to the awards for the whole of Suffolk next month. Some of you may also have been lucky enough to hear our young star being interviewed on Radio Suffolk this morning.

This is yet more great recognition for our club in what has been a pretty big year so far - well done everyone!!

Ramsholt Challenge, 2010

2010-09-20T22:11:00.008+01:00

Ramsholt Challenge, 11th September 2010

One of the new Exlpore Rowing coxed Ivs on the way to Ramsholt

Well done and thank you to all of the club members who participated in this year's fundraising event, and to the supporting family members who met the rowers at the Ramsholt Arms – the conditions were particularly demanding, with strong winds, a very high tide and choppy water, so the 24 rowers (and coxes) who took part should be especially proud of their achievement.

Special thanks go to Chris Jillings who surprised us all with a cooked breakfast first thing before setting out as well as chocolates on our return. He also manned the launch boat to make sure that everyone was okay and this was particularly welcome in the difficult rowing conditions. Thank you too to John Churcher for selecting the crews.

(left) Ali, Bridget and Chris at Ramsholt

(centre) Chris J. in the launch

(below) Rowers at Ramsholt

Grand Opening of New Clubhouse, 4th September, 2010

2010-09-20T22:06:00.003+01:00

On Saturday 4th September over 1oo people, including club members and representatives of British Rowing, joined together to celebrated the official opening of our new clubhouse by Dr Therese Coffey MP.

(Further details and photos to follow soon - feel free to pass any you have, or any memories of the day to Anna or Bridget and we will add them here)

Roundtable Rowing Taster, 2nd August

2010-08-18T13:19:00.006+01:00

On Monday 2nd August, DRC was pleased to welcome members of Ipswich Greyfriars Roundtable for a rowing taster session.

Plenty of club members were on hand and things kicked off with an ergo demonstration from Michael Streat. Once everyone had mastered the basic posture on that, the tablers progressed to trying the same thing with blades on the jetty... and then it was onto the water!

To make sure that everyone got an experience of the real thing, we put out a variety of boats: viruses, mondegos and fine doubles with experienced rowers in the bows to give coaching tips, steer and keep the balance.

(pictured left: Tim offers quiet instruction from the shore)

Just to show that we can be sociable too, we all tipped into the Cherry Tree for drinks and food as well.

It was a real pleasure to have the tablers at the club. I hope they also enjoyed their evening and will come back again for another go!

Clio at National Championships, 2010

2010-07-19T17:46:00.003+01:00

Many congratulations to Clio for winning a silver medal at the National Championships on Sunday 18th July!!

The event was held at Strathclyde Park and Clio achieved her excellent result in the Women's Junior 17 Single Scull event.

Full details and results of the championships can be found here.

Clio in Team GB!

2010-07-04T22:03:00.002+01:00

Some really exciting news this evening - Clio has been selected to represent GB at the Coupe de la Jeunesse (Juniors) on Jul 31 at Hazewinkel in Belgium.

This is really fantastic news and comes after many months of hard training and gruelling races and trials.

Hopefully full details to some soon, but very well done to her in the meantime!!

Cambridge City Sprints, Sunday 9th May

2010-05-13T22:35:00.006+01:00

Chris Lawrence reports from the Cam:

Thanks to the sterling effort of Nick Redman, I managed to borrow a boat and set of blades from Clare College Boat Club, who recently hosted DRC for a training day. The College boathouse manager is a former opponent of last year’s Sprints (Men’s Novice 1x) , and it was good to have a friendly face to help with the kit. The boat in question was an excellent Burgashell, with a pair of superlight Croker sculls. After the initial paddle to get used to the boat, and get the start right, I felt confident of being able to provide a good race for the bankside spectators.

I met my opponent before the race, an amiable Vet B (guessing age!) from Champion of the Thames, and pleasantries were exchanged. In the spirit of the day, competition took a back seat for a short time.

The race itself, the final of the ARA Novice Men’s Single Sculls, was raced in the third division which started at 12.30. As we were waiting for the command to paddle up and get attached, there was a small amount of tension, but this evaporated once we got to the start line.

I had a piece of luck in being placed on the common station (my preferred one), which allows half a length’s advantage on the start line, but this is compensated for by the bend on which the race is run being in favour of the person on the boathouse side.

“…Champs, Deben. Come forward…….GO!”

After a good start (only slight splashing), I gained a further half length and by the end of the first third of the race, the gap was about a length and a half. Over the next 300m, I kept a steady pace and took approximately another two lengths from him before crossing the line. I was sorry to see him clash (oar) with the bank a couple of seconds later, having made the same mistake myself (twice) last year.

After the race, the Champion oarsman was gracious in defeat. Sportsmanship was shown to be more important then the outcome. After a brief reprieve, we paddled back up to the boathouse, put the boats away and exchanged final handshakes. I departed with my wonderful support crew to collect my pot, and thanked Anton (the college boathouse manager and Cantabrigian) and Nigel (the President of the College Boat Club) for their help, without whose consent to use College equipment I would not have been able to attend the race.

My final word is one of thanks; without the assistance of Nick Redman I would not have even been able to try and borrow equipment to race with, the credit for this win goes to him. But my thanks go out to the whole club; Terry, Tim, Chris Jillings and John, for the time they have invested in coaching me, everyone who has given me tips (far too many to name), Hannah for some outstanding work as Junior Captain, particularly in the face of adversity, and all the other junior competitors (particularly long standing and long suffering doubles partners Megan and Mark).

Now the focus must be on getting ready for the summer. St Neots, Peterborough, and other events are coming up on the horizon. With some solid effort, we should be able to pick up some more pots before the autumn.

Thanks again, Chris Lawrence

Congratulations on winning your novice sculls, Chris!! A well-earned result after many months of training and competition. Many thanks to you as well for writing about the race for our blog - an article showing you to be not just an oarsman, but a gentleman too.

Suffolk Indoor Rowing Champs., 24th April, 2010

2010-04-29T23:10:00.003+01:00

On Saturday April 24th, Deben Rowing Club were proud to host the Suffolk Indoor Rowing Championships (sponsored by Health, Muscle and Fitness).

Warming up is a serious business

The competition took place at Woodbridge and over fifty people took part in both individual challenges and team events. Entrants came from all over Suffolk to take part in the event, with representatives of schools from Lowestoft, Stowmarket, Needham Market, as well as those closer to home from Woodbridge and Ipswich.

"Ready, GO!"

The Royal Engineers at Rock Barracks kindly loaned us the rowing machines to use on the day, and the spectators were able to enjoy some serious contests, in particular those between a number of young competitors who were looking to match the British Rowing Gold Medal Targets.

Concentration is key in the face of stiff competition

First home in the Men's Open event was Jamie Cawthorn of Deben Rowing Club and Exeter University in a time of 6mins 50secs. Clio Aubugeau-Williams was first in the Women's Open category in a time of 7mins 39secs. Jack Cousins of Woodbridge School won the junior event in a time of 7mins 34secs, just pipping Chris Lawrence of DRC by 1 second.

All eyes on the rowers

Other individual times were: Graham Aldrich 6.58.0, Steve Fowler (DRC) 6.58.1, Steve Cooper (DRC) 7.01, Neil Cawthorn DRC 7.02, Michael Street (Woodbridge Sch.) 7.03, Will Notcutt (DRC) 7.04, Peter Benson (Skailes) 7.31, Harry Apperley (Woodbridge Sch.) 7.41, Hubert (Cellobeld) 7.51, George Rudland (Woodbridge Sch.) 7.53, Tom Welham (Woodbridge Sch.) 8.20, Bridget Wijnberg (DRC) 8.34, Chris Churcher (DRC) 8.39, Ali Gilbert (DRC) 8.57, Catherine Larner (DRC) 9.25

Very well done to everyone who took part, and many thanks to all those who made it happen.

Report: Neil Cawthorn
Photos: Bridget Wijnberg

More Boathouse Progress...

2010-04-28T20:34:00.002+01:00

How exciting!!!!!!!!!!!

When can we move in, Will??

Boathouse Progress

2010-03-24T13:21:00.002Z

Here is a pic of the boathouse as of 19th March. In fact, work is progressing so quickly on-site that this is now rather out of date. When I cycled by on Monday, we had a door and some cladding...and by now there is almost certainly even more :-)

New lightweight quad launched at DRC's Cambridge training day

2010-03-15T18:29:00.007Z

DRC members were welcomed at the Clare College boathouse in Cambridge on Saturday, 13th March.

DRC and Clare College members

The morning session saw the launch of a brand new lightweight quad. Em, Hannah, Kate and Clio put the new boat through its paces under the watchful eye of coach, Chris Jillings.

Junior girls try out quad / Clare College BC

Over two sessions planned and organised by Chris, DRC personnel got experience of both sculling and rowing with Clare College very kindly providing coxes, additional coaches and equipment.

The afternoon session involved a DRC VIII taking to the Cam (and, by all accounts, not looking ragged even when Clio at stroke took the rating up!).

The day was both very instructive and fun, and the large number of juniors present got an idea of what college rowing has to offer.

The DRC/Clare composite VIII gets ready to go!

DRC is grateful to all Clare personnel involved and especially Dr Nigel Woodcock, the Fellow in charge of the boat club at Clare, for his role in organising it with DRC's Nick Redman, who rowed in Clare's colours when he was a student there some 30 years ago.

Thanks to Nick for providing the report above and to Bridget for that below! Photos by Steve and Chris

“Having spent 10 months moving up the rung from beginner to, dare I say, vaguely proficient novice sculler on the Deben – all in double and single sculls, it was absolutely fabulous to get the chance to sweep oar in a 4 and with dedicated coaching from the bank. Yes they really do cycle beside you along the Cam, shouting across the water… although one of those old conical shaped megaphones would have helped. Quite iconic.

It was brilliant feeling us all come together so quickly. We might even have achieved the stage of looking elegant and managed to impress the cox with a solid 30-stroke stretch of “excellent” rowing. I for one am now itching to get onto our beautiful Deben in a IV. Any takers?

Signing off with nicely sore muscles and new blisters :-)”

All smiles after their outing in the VIII!

Junior Trials, Feb 2010

2010-02-28T16:25:00.003Z

Chris Jillings reports from Boston:

When the November Early Indication Junior Trials were cancelled last year due to horrendous weather, February's trials became the make or break focus to cream off the best athletes for this year's Junior Squad.

A weekend of contrasting conditions met the small Deben contingent supporting Clio at Boston for the two day event. Luckily Saturday was a perfect spring day, with warming sunshine and a gentle tail breeze for the gruelling 5k time trial. Sitting in her shiny new boat Clio paddled off to the start with her friends and nearly an hour later, she appeared round the final bend for the sprint to the line.

Having past the boat ahead and up alongside the next one up the queue, we could see that she had performed well, and when the results sheet said 18th out of 56 we were jumping up and down! With most of the girls ahead of her having opted for sweep selection, it looked like Clio was the within the top ten of the scullers.

Day 2 dawned with a light covering of snow, but a swing in the wind gave a stiff-ish head breeze in the second half of the course. Then came the blizzards came and snow ball fights. With the extra pressure of the previous event having been postponed, Thrust waited 'til zero hour to decide to send both male and female crews to start in either their doubles or pairs, and with the snow still falling the exodus began.

Sadly Clio's doubles partner had pulled out with a back injury and Clio teamed up with a girl from Glasgow instead. By the time the leading boats turned at the top the snow had stopped and the clouds were starting to break. The results, as expected, reflected the couples that practised together and the scratch pairings, including Clio, were mostly further down the list. It was still a superb result from the weekend, however, with just the singles results counting for progression anyway.

New Boathouse (update)

2010-02-28T16:13:00.003Z

Anyone who has been down to the club, or even just near the river, in the last few weeks will have noticed that work is continuing apace down on the clubhouse site.

The 'bones' of the structure are in place and the floor block has been laid.

All very exciting, and here's a picture (thanks to Chris J.) to show you how it looks!

Suffolk Indoor Rowing Champs, 24th April 2010

2010-02-15T13:24:00.006Z

Deben Rowing Club are pleased to host:

The Suffolk Indoor Rowing Championships

24th April, 2010

Woodbridge School, from 10:00

Events for seniors and juniors, both individuals and teams

More info and entry forms to follow soon

In the meantime, enquiries should be directed to Neil Cawthorn:

Tel: 01473 736 278

email: Neil.Cawthorn@temple-head.org.uk

Happy New Year

2009-12-27T15:10:00.007Z

Couple of photo's for you. The boathouse as it was (with Terry proppping it up) and where we are now with the pilings in place, ready for the concrete to go down.

Not withstanding the limited accomodation normal outings recommence next weekend. Look forward to seeing you there.

Happy New Year

Tim

DRC Christmas

2009-12-21T17:29:00.006Z

Many thanks to those that turned out despite the ice and snow for the club Christmas meal on Saturday - I had a great time and hope you all did too.

Above: A few partygoers, including King Terry in his tiara

Below left and right: The clubhouse site in the snow

Below centre: Even the Yellow Perils held hands to keep warm in the snow

Happy Christmas!

Wintery Work

2009-12-14T20:55:00.006Z

As you can see from these pics taken by Tim, all is progressing well with the preparations on-site for the new clubhouse...

Great to see our river looking as stunning as ever too!

Now why is the water only ever that flat on weekdays??!!

Site Clearance

2009-11-22T23:32:00.008Z

Well, it's really happening - out with the old and in with the new! Here are some pictures from the site clearing session at the clubhouse today. Great to see everyone working together and thanks to Megan for sharing her birthday cake with all the hungry workers (yum).

More Rocking the Boat

2009-11-22T22:35:00.005Z

Here are a few more pictures from our party, courtesy of the band (thanks guys) and there are some great shots of us all dancing the night away. If anyone is planning another party and needs live music (or indeed a photographer), Grace Brothers would be happy to oblige - contact: conrad.barnard@btinternet.com

Grace Brothers in action

"Do my sideburns look big in this?"

Cute couple (of hats)!

Nice to see that even our treasurer likes to boogie (on a Saturday night)

Great air guitar from our chairman

Rock the Boat Party, 14th November

2009-11-15T22:37:00.007Z

We really hope everyone enjoyed rocking the boat last night. The barn looked stunning with the red and yellow bunting strung from corner to corner as well as lots of balloons, fairy lights and hay bales.

It was good to see everyone embracing the fancy dress, despite some worries about what to wear in the weeks beforehand:

Malcolm had tremendously impressive sideburns and was unrecognisable as Elvis; Terry and Sue made a dramatic entrance as a handsome pair dressed in oilskins and mermaid costume, complete with strategically placed clam-shells (Terry was the one in the oilskins); Megan’s family did themselves proud as an entire band of pirates; Philippe looked very suave in his green suede Robin Hood suit accompanied by his very own private pirate-ess; Tim was Lawrence of Arabia, but was missing his ship of the desert (a.k.a camel) and Jonathan appeared to be his partner in crime (any excuse to wear a dress!). We had authentic WWI naval uniforms, Raju in an officer’s uniform... pink boas and leg-warmers... and glowing Minnie Mouse ears supplied by Chris J.

There was also a whole troop of rockers of various eras and styles from Catherine and Chezzi to Kate and Mark. Anna M. was another one in her impressive punk wig, but then wondered if it was such a good idea afterall as she had to walk home, alone, through the streets of Woodbridge late at night feeling somewhat self-conscious!

And Bridget was the Queen of Sutton Hoo (of course).

Hannah definitely earned her halo as the Angel of the Night, staying until the wee hours to clear up after the 'not so responsible adults' teetered off home. Well done Hannah!!

And a very very big thank you to Jonathan and Kate for their hospitality, and to Ken for organising a super live band free of charge (just how much do those guys take off you at cards?)! Thanks also to Malcolm who came to the rescue on numerous occasions, and to the party team for their hours (many hours!!!) of hard teamwork!

If we’ve forgotten anyone – apologies. You are all special! It was a really super evening and just wonderful to have so many of the club together under one roof. Although the main purpose was to have fun, we also raised some all-important money for the new clubhouse appeal - fantastic.

John, Will and Nicola - great to have you all there supporting and boogie-ing a little too. We know the committee are all doing loads behind the scenes so hope you had a good time.

Thanks again from the team - Bridget, Hannah, Megan and Anna

Norfolk Sculls, 31st October, 2009

2009-11-02T22:35:00.007Z

Well done to everyone who went along to Norwich on Saturday for the Norfolk Sculls - there was a good contingent of competitors and supporters from DRC despite the rather grey weather.

On the river were Catherine, Chezzi, Chris L., Clio, Hannah, John, Malcolm, Megan, Steve F. and Tim.

Full results can be found on the Norwich website: http://www.norwichrowingclub.co.uk/

Particular congratulations to the prize winners:

Clio - fastest W1x
Malcolm and Catherine - Nov Mix 2x pots
(Again! We look forward to your hatrick...)

Hopefully more words from someone who was actually there will follow soon, but for now I think the quote below from Steve pretty much sums up what we should all be feeling at this point in the season - time to knuckle down and get training, despite the cold and dark.

"[Competing in the Norfolk Sculls] proved to me what I knew anyway: that after a 7.5 year 'lay up' it takes more than a bit of paddling to get race fit again!!! I'm now resolved to dust off my ergo and put some real time in on it again."

I also think the look on our Chairman's face in this picture says it all!

Weybridge Silver Sculls, 24th October, 2009

2009-11-02T22:16:00.003Z

Chris Jillings reports...

A couple of weekends agon, Clio and Chris were flying the club colours along the Thames from Walton to Weybridge, taking part in the popular Weybridge Silver Sculls. Well Clio was flying anyway, poor old CJ was trundling along behind,still suffering from a long term muscle tear and a recent cracked shin from a cycle crash. The less said about his time the better, but Clio steamed along in her first division as a WJ17 and was fastest by some 20 seconds over one of her previous National Junior Camp companions from Lea.

The Silver Sculls is one of two head races held on this stretch during the winter, the other being Walton Head, which is rowed in the opposite direction, downstream from Weybridge to Walton Rowing Club. The Silver Sculls, however is slightly more tricky, particularly if there is a strong head current, as the 3,500m course has a large sweeping double bend at the mid point, spanned by Walton bridge. The quickest way is to dive through the inside arch, squeezed up against the bank and on a curve, but with very little current this year the gathered throng were not treated to many shipwrecks at all. I didn't see any swimmers at all this year!

Having rowed on the stretch some six times before, Clio's line was top class and she entered the final 1000m cut right on track with a huge gap behind to the next junior! Sadly, during the lunchtime division for doubles the head wind grew stronger and stronger and now as a WJ18, it looked pretty impossible for Clio to better any of the morning times.

Therefore this year we went along to the evening prize giving feeling pretty confident that she would have at least taken the WJ17 pot in the morning, but when the final results were posted we discovered that Clio had also set the fastest time of any WJ, meaning she received the Champion Girl's trophy too. This was a well deserved prize and quite a notable feather in the cap. She was also only beaten by two other senior women in the whole day.

What a brilliant result!

National Junior Potentials Training Camp

2009-11-02T22:03:00.005Z

The club can feel proud of another first in its history of home grown talent success following Clio's recent invitation to attend the National Junior Potentials training camp at Holme Pierrepoint, Nottingham.

This was the first camp in the winter programme and was an important chance for the National Junior Coach to take a look at the top 42 girls who could potentially be successful at selection trials later in the season. Many of their coaches also attended and the girls were split in to compatible groups of five. There then followed three intensive and painful days of training: outings in single sculls, ergos, runs, physio sessions, stretching exercises, not to mention the technical lectures in between.

Congratulations too, to Chris J who was intrusted with a group to coach for the whole three days, each sculler needing their own individual assessments and coaching points to work on during the technical outings as well as the final day head race and side by side races.

Both Chris and Clio returned on the Monday afternoon tired from a heavy weekend in different ways, but sharing some invaluable experiences from working at the national team level. I'm sure they would be really happy to tell you more...if you can catch either of them when they aren't either training or racing, that is!

Well done and we look forward to hearing more about junior trials as the season progresses...

Yare Cup, 26th September 2009

2009-10-03T21:22:00.007+01:00

Yare Head Race – Saturday 26^th September

A personal account of a ‘first outing’ by Steve Cooper

With Malcolm, Catherine, Chris, Terry, Steve, and John representing the DRC

The day started early with a 6 o’clock rendezvous at the river wall. Trailer hitched, we set off for Norwich Boat Club, picking up Chris on the way. This was my first race and I was pretty apprehensive as we fixed our numbers to the boats. Malcolm, Chris and I launched our singles and paddled towards to the start. Luckily, there was no chance of starting the race ‘cold’ with a 2.2km stretch to the finish line, and then a further 3.7km to the start. We lined up more or less in number order, and I got a chance to suss out the opposition. There seemed to be a few ‘novices’ wearing faded university boat club tee shirts, but I was not deterred.

Soon it was my turn: "26 come forwards….. 26 go!" and I was off. I was quickly passed by one of the other novice boats, last seen heading for somewhere near the top of the leader board. But I settled down, trying to keep a decent rhythm, and although I was passed by one more boat at about 2000m, I held off the rest and finished the 3700m course feeling I had made a reasonable account of myself, coming 7^th out of 10 in the novice class. Malcolm finished an excellent 2nd in the VetC 1x class, and Chris came in 1min 6 secs ahead of me in a time of 17.41.

Once we got back to the NBC my relief at having finished the day’s racing unscathed was short‑lived when it transpired that an injury John was carrying was not getting any better, and that I would have to stand in for him in the experienced Davey-Churcher Open Vets double combo. Terry and I looked at each other. I was facing another 12km round trip, Terry was facing some emergency coaching.

We set off, with a 6km paddle to get into some semblance of order. My ‘novice single’ bad habits were soon apparent, made worse, I like to think, by the unfamiliarity of the boat. We progressed down to the start line to sounds of "Straighten your back….. Keep your hands level…. Don’t rush it…!"

Malcolm and Catherine were also sculling in the afternoon race, and Catherine as fellow first timer I think mirrored my slightly apprehensive expression.

Soon our number was called and we were off. Terry was at bow so I could just focus on being smoooooth. We overtook another double… Great. We pushed on and it was all feeling quite good, but after about 2000m we were closed down by two other boats that were going well. With heads down we managed to hold them off. As we approached the finish line there was encouragement from the bank by John - "COME ON DEBEN!!!" - and Terry counted me down: "5 more... 5 more... 10 more... " We finished strongly (17.04) and both of us had given it our best shot.

The Yare boat club hosted a tasty barbecue, and we politely applauded the winners, mostly from Norwich and Yare clubs. And then “Novice mixed double – Malcolm and Catherine from the DRC”. Well done, both of you (and really, I’m not sore that you beat Terry and me by 2 seconds….).

All in all great day out and a couple of pots for the DRC.

Steve C

BBQ on the Rocks, 19th September, 2009

2009-09-30T22:15:00.004+01:00

Sorry, all these articles are a bit out of chronological order, but here goes.. Thanks to Bridget for report and pics:

Sorry to rub it in… but we all had a FANTASTIC day!

Water was flat as a pancake, sun was shining brilliantly and there was hardly a breath of wind.

Tub 4 (Chris C, Chris L, Alex, Raju, Bridget) beat the Quad (Hannah, Chezzi, Kate and Megan) on the way down, the girls’ excuse being that they had to stop and chat mid-river! Yeah, right…

Chris C in the Tub 4 gave us her best coxing voice, driving us hard for the last stretch, and Chris L coxed on the way back – thanks guys. Well done those who hadn’t rowed sweep oar before, you did fantastically. Felt very proud to have people staring at us all along the river. Just goes to show that we really do all look impressive when we row as a team.

Terry stirred us up for beach rugby in our DRC club kit and wellies in the sand. Very trendy. Next time… beach volleyball? Anyone got a net?

Cambridge Autumn Regatta, 13th Sept, 2009

2009-09-27T12:42:00.008+01:00

Tim, Chris, Em, Hannah, John, Terry

Hannah Shire reports:

On the 13th of September 8 members of Deben Rowing Club competed in the Cambridge Autumn Regatta. The weather was pretty cold and fairly dull which didn’t put the scullers in the best mood at the beginning of the day.

Tim Earnshaw was up first in Novice 1x, soon followed by Vet C 1x where he was up against an ex-international sculler and unfortunately missed out on winning.

Chris Lawrence had his J17 1x race and did really well keeping up a good pace throughout, especially as he was up against a very speedy rower from the hosts, Cambridge 99, but unfortunately Chris came second. He also entered J17 2x with Mark Anscombe. After a long wait on the river (over an hour), they raced a crew from Durham. Still no luck with that, however it was a great experience especially as it was Mark’s first ever sculling race.

Chris & Mark

John Churcher entered the Vet E 1x, but he didn’t have such a great start and this gave him a disadvantage and he didn’t manage to catch up with his competitor again.

Chezzi Keig and Kate Carson entered J18 2x and did exceptionally well. They won their first race putting them through to the finals. In the final they were up against two very ‘strong’ looking girls, however they only lost by 2 lengths which is great considering their opposition. Chezzi was only 15, but had to be entered for J18 because of Kate so they did so well due to the age difference too!

Girls double

Hannah Shire and Em Chittock raced in Novice 2x in the morning, but didn’t do too well, especially as neither were warmed up or ready. Later in the day they raced J17 2x against a crew from Cantabrigian Rowing Club. The start was good, but so were the opposition (they certainly seemed confident at the beginning of the race). It was neck and neck for about three quarters of the course and then Hannah and Em finally managed to pull through giving them a straight win of J17 2x. A fabulous end to the day. Overall everyone did so well and a good time was had by all despite the gloomy weather. Well done to everyone!

Many thanks to John Churcher for the photos and to Hannah Shire for the article. Well done to everyone who took part!

Boston Rowing Marathon (Part II)

2009-09-21T20:05:00.008+01:00

I thought I would keep up the tradition of writing a personal blog on the Boston Marathon (well it’s my second one). Although I have talked about it on and off all year, I only finally entered the race a couple of weeks beforehand. I also politely encouraged Anna and Ian to put their entry in - didn’t fancy doing it on my own.

It was quite a challenge to even get there. I picked my boat up on the Wednesday and managed to bang it on the rack, putting a foot long split in the bow where the canvas joins the hull! Spent Thursday gluing it up with epoxy resin. Then on Friday evening I was maintaining my car and managed to puncture a hole in the radiator! Things weren’t looking good and I thought someone was telling me I shouldn’t go!

I was on night shifts at this point, so also had to work Friday night and didn’t get home until Saturday morning. I managed to find a replacement radiator and spent the day fitting it, then finally travelled up to Lincoln Saturday night, having being up for over 24 hours.

After all that, getting on the water Sunday morning was a very relaxed affair. It was a beautiful day with little wind. After the usual faffing, I started the race on schedule at about 10:05. Anna and Ian were starting 12mins behind and there had been a little banter about catching up. In the event they started early and were boating as I left the start. They must have been only 5mins behind.

I started off quite steadily. I had strong memories of last year where I had suffered with massive cramp at about two-thirds of the distance. I tried to row efficiently, but I couldn’t resist picking off a boat or two on the way to the lock at 13 kms. I was one of 14 novice single sculls in the race and I knew the boats in front were my direct competition. By the lock I must have overtaken 4 or 5 boats! Things were feeling good.

It took about 3 minutes to walk round the lock. We had the help of our ground crew, which made things a lot easier - a chance to take on some water and pack of energy gel. I set off only to see the people I had overtaken immediately behind me again – very frustrating. Anyway, I pushed off and plugged away again.

Still had time to chat to the girls!

Stopping for food and water is a bit of conundrum. Stopping is dead time that you never make up, but you cannot row continuously for over 4 hours! I stopped for a drink at 20km and 25km, then lunch at 31kms where the ground crew were at the bank. I was starting to feel tired and very conscious of the 40km wall I hit last year. I wanted to make sure I was looking after myself. A gel pack and a banana this time! This was my longest stop (1 min 20 seconds as my fancy watch tells me). I set off with a single sculler immediately behind and travelling quickly: no 71, an arch rival. We rowed side by side for miles, pushing each other along! He even asked me when I was going to stop, as he wanted a drink! He eventually stopped and I pulled 250 m ahead. I planned to stop again at 39 km, hoping to complete the last hour non-stop.

The ground crew had been fantastic and were on the bank every half hour or so cheering us on. It was quite lifting. I kept asking how far Anna and Ian where behind, but never got a very clear answer: “not long”, “a few minutes”. There was still a little bit of rivalry there!

When I pulled away at 39km Old Matey no 71 was just behind. I made sure I pulled away in front of him. Things were going to plan, but then I got the first few twinges of cramp in my legs. I had to stop for a few seconds to stretch my muscles. We were now side by side and hit the weed! It was hard going and the pace slowed. No 71 was starting to ease ahead, only by a few metres, but I was finding it hard to respond. We fought the weed together for nearly 4km. I realised I was at risk of cramp stopping me completely and decided to let him pull away. As the weed on the surface of the river cleared, the boat was still heavy, so I stopped and backed down to try and clear any that had got caught on the skeg. It helped and the pace immediately picked up. Only 3km to go and doing 5m 10s splits again, It was just a matter of a steady finish.

It’s a great relief when you first hear the tannoy of the finish line in the distance. I finished in 4h 16m. Truly amazing. Old Matey won the category in a time of 4h 10m and 59s. He had obviously made up a lot of time in the first half. I think I finished 3rd. When I talked to him afterwards he mentioned his coach so I didn’t feel so bad.

Still looking good at the finish (must sit up straight!)

I could actually stand when I got out of the boat this time, but everything moved very slowly. I decided to let the ground crew carry my boat back to the car. Anna and Ian came in as I was wandering along the bank, just a few minutes behind. It was a fantastic day - bright sunshine, miles and miles and miles of flat water, and friendly competition.

Malcolm Pidd, 21 September 2009

Boston Marathon, 20th September, 2009

2009-09-21T07:49:00.003+01:00

For a few members of DRC the end of summer and evenings drawing in can mean only one thing: it is time for the Boston Marathon.

As usual the course this year started at Lincoln, from where increasing weary competitors had to wend their way along 50km (31 miles) of river to Boston, also getting out and carrying their boats over a lock at one point.

http://www.bostonrowingmarathon.org.uk/Marathon.htm

It is fair to say that neither Malcolm, Ian or I felt exactly prepared for such a long row this year, with only the thought of "at least we know what we're letting ourselves in for" providing some comfort. Malcolm entered the men's Novice 1x category and Ian and I found ourselves in the Intermediate 3 mixed 2x band as there weren't any other Novices.

Malcolm set off first, and despite his calls of "see you on the water", I felt sure that his strength, determination and competitiveness would make him a tough target to catch. Once on the course, it was great to see that there was the usual variety of competitors, both the very experienced and just the very determined. We can only have been rowing for about 5km before I heard shouting up ahead, but I couldn't tell what it was about and quick glances over my shoulder didn't suggest that there had been any steering problems or clashing of blades. A few minutes later we drew level with a single sculler who turned out to be simply shouting at himself and his boat in sheer frustration; he had a broken rigger, but was intent on completing the course nevertheless! Another single sculler apparently capsized in the early stages, but climbed back into his boat and carried on rowing until the end regardless (at least it was a sunny day, so hopefully he soon dried out).

As the kms drew on, there was still no sign of Malcom and around half way we were overtaken by one of the boats in our category, with the others following a few kms later. I don't think Ian will mind me saying that spirits in our boat were a little low at this point and I know my hands were becoming increasingly covered in electrical tape in an attempt to stop further blister expansion. Luckily our shore support (Katherine, Ian's wife, sister and brother in law) were in good voice, however, and as always it was very cheering to have them there on the bank at various points to encourage us...and tell us to hurry up and catch Malcolm!

With just 10km left we told ourselves that we just had to row the distance from Ramsholt to the clubhouse and spirits picked up a bit, despite having to negotiate rather a lot of weed in the river. Ian and I never did manage to catch Malcolm as he finished the course in the phenomenal time of 4hrs 16mis, but we did complete it in 4hrs 26mins (just a couple of mins off our previous record two years ago), so both DRC crews did themselves proud.

A big WELL DONE to Malcolm for his amazing achievement and also to Ian, who has now completed the course 5 times!!

Ramsholt Challenge, 21st June 2009

2009-08-02T18:02:00.008+01:00

Thanks to Will for contributing this article (photos to be added soon), and my apologies for taking so long to put it up here. Well done everyone!



Almost 30 hardy souls from DRC ventured onto the serene and peaceful waters of the Deben on 21st June to raise funds for the
clubhouse appeal.  Friends and family had been coerced with sponsorship forms over the previous two months and training had
carried on apace as the Challenge day drew near.  There was much talk:

"Singles or doubles?"
"Who's going to win?"
"It's not a race!"
"Only one pub stop!!"

The route was from the clubhouse upstream with the top of the flooding tide through Wilford Bridge and to the iron railway
bridge - as far as it is possible to navigate on the Deben (in a rowing boat), before turning for the sea and heading downstream
to Ramsholt.  It took 45 minutes to get everyone afloat - a pair, a quad, a recreational single, 4 singles, 5 doubles and a safety
launch - so some were heading downstream before others had got underway.  Eventually all safely arrived at the Ramsholt
Arms to be met by bemused members of the public, along with friends and family.  Taking on the minimum of sustenance would
be the key to a good performance row back to Woodbridge against the strongly ebbing tide.  Again a staggered start ensured
that a race mentality did not overtake the spirit of the day.

As a club outing it was first class - and out thanks to Nicola for the organisation and perseverance to find an activity open to all
that would raise the much needed funds for the club.

The greatest part of the challenge remains open - the collecting of sponsorship money!

National Schools, 2009

2009-05-28T20:23:00.002+01:00

Whilst the rest of us were out on Sunday starting off our tans, Clio was scorching down the course at the National Schools Rowing Champs in Nottingham, not once but three times!! And what a brilliant result - 4th out of 22!

This was a superb effort and was easily her most polished performance to date. All those outings that we see her do and all the nights in the gym that we don't see her do, have produced a powerful sculler and on the day Clio was a match for all but the best scullers in the country. Her improved strategy, fitness and confidence showed through as this time she was never left at the start and hung on during the race for as long as her legs would allow.

With 22 entrants in her category, it was an early start on Sunday morning (follwowing a night in a very noisy campsite) for a 1500m time trial to weed out the best 12 for two semi finals. As is normal, the 12 names were posted up in alphabetical order so no one knew who had done what time, only their positioning in the lane draw.

Clio had Lane 5 in a difficult semi with Klara Weaver and Camilla Hadland so the race for third place was always going to be tough. She went out after Camilla from the off, however, and the two of them were locked in battle for most of the race. One sculler emerged strongly from the chasing pack in the last 250m, but luckily by then Clio had a comfortable gap and was ultimately not threatened for third place.

Those of you that know Holme Pierrepoint will know its reputaion for lumpy conditions and strong head winds, but as the sun scorched down, for once there was barely a ripple on the water all day!

In the final Clio had Lane 1 alongside an unknown American school sculler and also Klara Weaver. Another cracking start saw Clio chase out of the gate in second place, with the five girls settling into a side-by-side battle after Klara quickly took her customoray distant lead. The first move came early, on Clio's side, when the American sculler made a massive push which unfortunately broke Clio quickly, leaving her trying to keep in touch with the moves across on the other side of the track. Undaunted, Clio stuck at it defiantly and for a while was pushing for third place with the girl over in Lane 6. After half way the gap was opening up, though, and the sculler in 5th place also came up past our girl.

With Camilla Hadland dropping out, Clio was going to have a tough battle for fourth place and entering the final phase she was trading attacks with Putney High School across in Lane 4. Hanging on at half a length down they passed the 200m to go mark and Clio started to drive long and hard, taking massive bites out of the lead. She sculled passed in the last 100m mark extending with every stroke, to cross the line a full length ahead - a magnificent finish!

I wish I had a picture of her beaming face when she finally recovered to reach the landing stage! Happy Days.

Chris Jillings

National Schools Regatta. Bank holiday weekend

2009-05-22T12:30:00.000+01:00

Good luck to Clio who will be flying the Deben colours at Holme Pierrepont this weekend. Take no prisoners Clio!

Tim

Latest news

2009-05-22T12:03:00.002+01:00

Thought I would pen a very brief update on a few subjects;

Suffolk Indoor Rowing Championships; Thanks to all who took part. I think I would be right in saying a great day was had by all. The sun was shining and 2k doesn't really hurt that much when everyone is shouting at you! Some great performances all round but a special mention to Woodbridge School A who were the recipients of the team prize.

Cambridge Spring Regatta; Again, another glorious day out in the spring sunshine. No wins but great efforts from our juniors Chris Lawrence, Em and Chezzi (in the new double'). All were entered as juniors and novice in their respective events and beat much larger and older oppposition in the course of the day. Em and Chezzi made it to the final of the womens novice 2X but sadly had to scratch for logistical reasons. Shame, because I'm sure they would have come away with the first pot of the season!

Fund raising; We now have just over 70% of the required funds for the Deben RC rebuild project committed from a number of partners. The most notable being Sport England and the Amateur Rowing Association. The ARA want us to start the rebuild in the autumn of this year so time is short to raise the remainder. All contributions welcome!

I think that's it for now. If I can find some batteries for my camera I will post some photo's from the Indoor Rowing event.

Tim

Ramsholt Challenge

2009-05-16T14:56:00.002+01:00

The Ramsholt Challenge
21st June, 2009
10am

Rules:

1. Row from the clubhouse, up the river to beyond the Wilford Bridge. Turn around and row back down to Ramsholt and then back up river to the clubhouse.
2. You are allowed to take one break (of any length) during the 20mile course.
3. The event is NOT a race - the aim is simply to complete the distance and raise as much money as possible for the clubhouse appeal.

Those wishing to take part must tell Nicola Notcutt by Sunday June 7th. Sponsorship forms available from her too.

Suffolk Indoor Rowing Championships.

2009-03-01T22:56:00.002Z

Suffolk Indoor Rowing Championships.

Saturday April 11th, Woodbridge Community Hall

The inaugural Suffolk Indoor Rowing Championships will take place at the club house on Saturday 11th April. Racing to commence at 11am.

Team and individual prizes for all categories.

Open men and women (including lightweight categories) - 2000m
Veteran men and women - 2000m
Under 18 junior boys and girls - 2000m
Under 15 junior boys and girls - 4 minutes.

Teams of four with lowest aggregate score to win category. For under 15 teams the measure will be total distance travelled.

Entry fee: £5 per seat. Cheques should be made payable to ‘Deben Rowing Club’, either in advance or on the day.

Entries by email to: timothy.earnshaw@thomsonreuters.com giving full name, event entered and date of birth. Plus name of club if appropriate.

Or by snail-mail to:

Tim Earnshaw
The Old Stables
Quayside
Woodbridge
IP12 1BH

A warm Deben welcome guaranteed with full catering on-site during the afternoon. Great Suffolk beer will also be found at local hostelries for post race celebrations!

A timetable of events will be posted once entries have been received.

Location; Woodbridge Community Hall, Station Road, Woodbridge, IP12. Just off the A12

http://streetmap.co.uk/map.srf?x=627202&y=248787&z=110&sv=station+road&st=6&tl=Map+of+Station+Road,+Woodbridge,+Suffolk,+IP12&searchp=ids.srf&mapp=map.srf

Easy parking at the site.

CWL, 22 February, 2009

2009-02-24T23:15:00.002Z

Ten brave souls with eight boats ventured off for a full day's racing on the Cam. It was a relatively warm and thankfully calm day; there had been a stiff head wind at the first leg in January which had made racing a bit more challenging!

The junior members showed the way. Here are a few highlights:

Division 2 (10:40)

Clio continues to impress in the WJ 1x class. Clio was the fastest female junior on the day and third fastest women's single! Clio is now within 9 seconds of the overall J 1x leader.

Em and Francesca entered in a J16 2x. Francesca has only been rowing a few months and it was her first experience in a competitive race. Under Em's steady helm they completed the course in just over 14mins, chased down the river by Terry and a posse of spectators on push bikes. A fantastic result.

The gentlemen's Vet E4+ (John, David, Neil and Nick) put in a solid performance and improved on their time in the first leg.

Lastly, the old Vet Cs - Tim and I - plugged it out in the singles. I am trying to remember how Tim described my stroke in the bar afterwards... "physical but effective"? Which I think is another way of saying that it lacks refinement! I actually had one of my best results to date, clocking up the fastest Vet C 1x time of the day!

Division 4 (14:00)

Chris Lawrence entered his first competitive race (J16 1x) and Terry said that he got faster and faster as he travelled down the river! He led a few of us more experienced rowers home!

For a full set of results see:
http://www.cra-online.net/results/2009/wl_results.htm

It was a great day and I am sure most of us will be back for the final round on the 8th March. Why don't you join us?!

Malcolm Pidd

Cambridge Winter League, 2009

2009-01-27T22:19:00.001Z

Here is a link to the results of the January leg of the Winter League:

http://www.cra-online.net/results/2009/wl_results.htm

Pudding Races, 2009

2009-01-09T18:32:00.012Z

Happy New Year!

If you had won two Henley medals, what would there be left to win? World Cup Olympic Gold in the single sculls (could do that in one leg), Commonwealth? No! What you would really, really want is the coveted DRC Plum Pudding.

And thus our newest member, Stephen Fowler, girded the proverbial loins on the coldest Deben day for quite some time. Ably assisted by John 'I'm-just-surfing-in-the-bow-seat' Churcher, the noble pair romped to victory.

Conditions were tricky (when are they not on our beloved river?!), but a good time was had by all and we adjourned to the DRC 'bar'...

This year's project is to replace the crumbling edifice with a purpose-built clubhouse which will be fit for purpose.

Happy New Year to All!

Tim Earnshaw
(DRC Chairman)

Walton Small Boats Head, 2008

2008-12-14T21:01:00.002Z

Hi!

Just a quick post, as have received some news from Clio's racing at the weekend. She was at the Walton Small Boats Head...and won both of her events!!

Clio was 1st in the WS4 single (by just 1 second!!) and also 1st in the WJ16, with the fastest time of all the junior races.

This is really fantastic and I hope to have more details to post here soon...

(PS - just imagine if she hadn't been coming to circuits and had lost by 1 second!)

GB Junior Trials, Boston, 22nd November, 2008

2008-11-26T21:46:00.009Z

Chris Jillings reports from Boston...

"A strong, bitterly cold North-westerly swept across the fens on Saturday morning as the country's best Junior men and Junior women assembled for the first Long Distance trials of the season. To the outside eye it looked just like another sculling head - an orderly queue taking their turn to boat and paddle up to the start, but the nervous tension in the athletes was very evident.

This was Clio's first foray into the GB selection process and she performed extremely well on the day. In the morning the Junior men had paddled the 5K to the start, marshalled in groups and then used the huge tail wind to help them home, 5K back down the course to Boston Rowing Club. By the time the women boated white horses were topping the waves in the finishing straight - Ahh, Deben conditions we thought, but the organisers bottled it and shortened their run to 3100 metres, to finish just before the final downwind leg!

Clio sculled powerfully and kept long in the tail wind, just holding her rating below the official restriction cap of 28 - tough these selection trials! With just about every top Junior in the country present, she finished 7th in her class of 18, and we look forward to going back for the next round in February - hopefully! Well done."

Yes, very well done, Clio!!

Norfolk Sculls, Sat 15th November 2008

2008-11-17T18:01:00.004Z

On Saturday Clio, Chris, Em, Jamie, John, Malcolm, Neil, Tim and I all went off to Norwich to race in the Norfolk Sculls head. At 4600m, the main course is one of the longest in our area, and there are plenty of tricky corners and willow trees for scullers to steer round along the way. There is also a shorter course for juniors and novices.

I had the pleasure of spectating on the bank for the first division, so saw Em, Clio, Tim, Chris and Malcolm speeding past in their singles...as ever there was stiff competition between the latter three! Then, in the afternoon the Cawthorns teamed up in a 2x and it was also my turn to take to the water in a double with Malcolm, while Clio teamed up with some girls from Norwich in a quad. John also joined in the 1x battle with Tim and Chris, while Em gave the shorter course her best shot again.

The Norwich club put on the usual great selection of food after the event, but even lots of cake didn't soften the blow of loosing out in the S3 mix doubles by a mere 3 seconds!!

Full results can be found on the NRC homepage: http://www.norwichrowingclub.co.uk/

Well done to everyone...and let's see if we can build on these results at the Carrow Cup in a few weeks' time.

Circuits

2008-11-09T20:00:00.002Z

Hi!

Just a reminder that Wednesday evening circuits have now started up again - yay!!

They consist of a short warm-up, followed by a series of old-school circuits including exercises such as press-ups, sit-ups, bench hops and so on. Whatever your fitness level, it's a great way to keep up training during the winter.

Circuits times: 18.45hrs until approx. 20:15hrs
Venue: the old-fashioned gymnasium at Farlingaye High School, Ransom Road, Woodbridge
Costs: £4 per session or £20 for ten weeks
What to bring: clean trainers, water, and a towel (for if you get sweaty, as you should if you're putting enough effort in!)

See you there!

DRC AGM 2008

2008-10-22T23:10:00.002+01:00

This year's AGM will take place on:

Tuesday November 4th, in the back room of the Bull Hotel, Woodbridge at 8pm.

See you there to elect the new committee, hear reports on accounts and other activities from the past year...and to discuss any other club business you like. This is your chance to have your say - don't miss out!

Nominations for committee positions should go to Nicola Notcutt.

Pairs Head, October 2008

2008-10-13T23:27:00.003+01:00

On Saturday 11th October, Clio and Chris took part in the Pairs Head and enjoyed lovely conditions out on the Thames (for once!). Full details and results can be found on the official website:

http://www.pairshead.co.uk/PHframeset.html

Well done to them both and we look forward to seeing more results soon as we get into the head race season proper...

DRC at Boston Marathon, 2008, Part II

2008-09-25T00:09:00.002+01:00

Firstly, many apologies to Tim and Simon - I forgot to mention that they also took part in the race this year. As part of a composite VIII, they smashed the course record they set last year by about 10 minutes!!

And here is an account of the race from Malcolm:

"It was only 2 weeks before, and after some behind the scenes coaching from Captain Anna, that Ian and I decided to enter the Boston Marathon – something I had always wanted to do but had never quite taken the plunge. Our training consisted of two short Wednesday night outings. The first was a rather un-synchronised affair but the second was better. Being only slightly competitive I had worked out that we should be able to achieve 5 minutes splits as a target.

We arrived at the start early and I bumped into Simon Newton and Tim Earnshaw who were racing in an eight. They were setting off 15miniutes after us and Tim mumbled something about one of the crew wanting to beat the record they set last year. They all seemed in good spirits.

Our start time was not until 11:30 so we had plenty of time beforehand to faff. We prepared the boat and loaded it up with GPS clock, schedule of split times, a map, cereal bars, Jaffa cakes, water and a banana! Finally we boated and got to the start line. At last we were off!

I think our nerves showed when we managed to get tangled in the reeds twice in the first kilometre. Finally we settled down and the pace picked up. We quickly started passing boats. I didn’t dare tell Ian how quickly we where going. Our next 7 Km were all under 4:30 splits! By that time we were getting close to Bardney Lock (13.5km) where you have to get out the boat and lift it over the lock. We overtook a mixed four and a couple of single sculls to arrive with a clear landing stage. No time to loose. We jump out, hitched the blades to the boat and lifted it across the bank. Again no delay in boating and we’re off. We agreed to stop shortly after at about 18 km for our first drink.

Thing were going well. We were holding a steady pace and the kms passed. I kept checking the split times against the schedule. It was nearly too quick to believe. I just said to Ian we were on target. I didn’t say what target! We passed the half way mark (25.5 km) in 1h 56m which was just under a 4 hour pace! I felt good, but perhaps not surprisingly the pace was beginning to slip a bit. There wasn’t quite so much push in the old legs now.

We took a long stop at 30 km for a cereal bar and water. When we set of the boat felt heavy. We kept pushing but the speed would not pick up and the pace was slow. Can a cereal bar really do that? Ian was finding it difficult to hold a steady course. The boat kept pulling right. We were all over the place – it was like we had spent a long evening in the Cherry Tree! There must be something caught on the skeg. After about 3 km and a slight altercation with a single scull we realised we had to stop. We found a pontoon and attempted to land. It was too high and we were going to end up in the drink. Things were getting a bit tense! We gave in and decided to back up and hoped that would clear it. We set of again and the boat immediately sprung back into life. If only we had tried that earlier!

The pace quickened again and soon we were managing under 5m splits again. It was here that Simon and Tim finally caught us up – at about 36 km with a loud shout of “Come on Deben”. It was good to hear as my legs were now beginning to hurt. To say the eight was going quickly was an understatement.

We passed the 38 km timing mark at 3h 5m. We were still on a good pace with only about an hour left.

I began to find things a bit more challenging now and got a cramp in my left leg. We stop briefly for a drink and pushed on. But at 39 km Armageddon broke out. It felt like I had cramp in every muscle in my body: legs, arms, shoulders, and hands. We came to an abrupt halt. It felt like the race was going end there and then. Out came the emergency banana and a drink. It felt like we had stopped for hours, but it was only a few of minutes. I wanted to push on and we eased off gently. The pace was slow but for me it was now a matter of finishing. Ian was doing all the work – I was just trying to move the blades in time. All that kept going through my mind was “I’m glade I’m not in a single!” I must have been a bit wobbly because Ian kept asking me if I was alright? Apparently I had gone quiet and my head was wobbling side to side! After another couple of brief stops Langrick Bridge arrived (43.5 km). I was staring to row again and the pace picked up a bit. Was it the emergency banana? Then the 45 km marker passed. I asked for a final stop, drank the last of my water and we set off. “Only the run back from Waldringfield left,” Ian tells me! We pushed on. At 48 km you could hear the public address system in the distance. It is amazing how the pace picks up at the end. We did the last km in 4:50. Where did that come from? Suddenly we passed the 50 km sign and then the finish line. I stopped the watch and it showed 4h 13m. I was totally exhausted. We landed and I could barely pick the boat up. Luckily Ian’s son was there or I would have dropped it. With a very slow walk I got to the car and lay on the floor. Would I ever do that again? Ian was amazingly sprightly, running around de-rigging the boat! After half an hour of stuffing cereal bars and water in me I managed to get up and sit in the car. And within an hour we were talking about doing it again. I’m mad!

The next day I felt surprisingly good, considering the pain during the race. I felt even better at lunchtime when the results were posted and found out we had won the Novice 2x by over 10 minutes and that Tim and Simon had smashed there previous record with a time of 3h 24m in the eight. What a result!"

DRC at Boston Marathon, 2008

2008-09-22T22:56:00.002+01:00

The Boston Rowing Marathon is now firmly marked as a regular event on the Parke calendar, along with family birthdays, Christmas and Easter...

This year was the 5th time Ian took part in the event and this time the target was the Novice 2x category prize, as he and Malcolm set out on the epic 31-mile journey from Lincoln to Boston, stopping only to climb over a lock and take on essential food and drink.

I'm hoping one of them will give me a description of the day in their own words (watch this space), but for now, let me just congratulate them both on a fantastic result: 1st in their category, with a time of 4hrs 13mins!

Full results and more information about the event can be found here:

http://www.bostonrowingmarathon.org.uk/Marathon.htm

Cambridge Autumn Regatta, 2008

2008-09-08T20:45:00.007+01:00

Sunday 7th September dawned rather damp and grey, but Bryony, Clio, Em, Malcolm, Roger, Tim and I set off to race in Cambridge nevertheless.

In the men's singles, Tim soon cruised through his first heat and then it was time for a rather different sort of Deben Challenge - Roger vs Malcolm in the vet novice singles. Roger took the lead at the start, but Malcolm wasn't going to give up without a fight. As they neared half way, he drew level again and then gradually pulled ahead to take the race.

Next up were Bryony and Em in their WJ16 doubles against two girls from Rob Roy. The rain poured down, but they rowed on undeterred and put in a strong performance, especially considering that it was Bryony's first race.

In the mixed doubles, Malcolm and eased comfortably through our first heat, but were then convincingly beaten in the final by a double from Champion of the Thames RC.

Clio had a very close race in her single, but couldn't quite catch her opponent from Peterborough. She made up for that by looking very smooth in a composite quad with three girls from Norwich - if only their final hadn't been cancelled, I'm sure they would have done very well.

Tim then made it through his next Vet C heat, but was also beaten in the final.

By this time thunder was rumbling, lightning was flashing, rain was pouring and the racing was suspended. We were left to shelter in the refreshments tent, anxiously awaiting the final of the Vet Novice 1x...Malcolm against Tim. Just as it looked as if there might be a break in the clouds, there was an announcement to say that the rest of the racing had been cancelled as there wouldn't be enough time to finish all the finals before dark. It was a disappointing end to what had been a fun day, but I'm sure there'll be another chance for Tim and Malcolm to find out who's really fastest...

Peterborough Summer Regatta, 2008

2008-08-16T18:35:00.002+01:00

Chris Jillings reports on Peterborough Summer Regatta:

It all came good at the weekend for Clio at the Peterborough Summer Regatta winning on both days and coming home with a nice matched pair of pots. As there is no J15 at this weekend Clio moved up to WJ16 and emphatically trounced her older opporsition on both days.

The wind blew stiffly on each day (and through the campsite all night!!) and unusually for Peterborough, it was pointing straight down the course - recodbreaking conditions! Clio was out of the gate with her usual confidence and was never behind, drawing away with every stroke for a 2-length win. Urged onby the coach from a rapidly moving bicycle, our star performer just missed equaling the W Junior 15's course record by 1 second!!

Another suprise greeted us at prize-giving - winning her first WJ16 race means Clio is no-longer a Novice. A clipped card now shows an S4 sculler - well done!!

500 metre sprint day on Sunday and a stronger tail wind was lifting Deben-sized waves at the bottom end of the course. Many of the less experienced were struggling with blade clearance and a couple of major crabs were spotted in the 'beginner' crews. Back in her "favourite" Lane 1 again for the evening's straight final Clio's start sequence gave her a half-length lead and relentless leg drive produced a win by clear water. A well-deserved holiday now awaits!

St Neots Regatta

2008-07-29T23:44:00.005+01:00

What a tranquil sight the regatta looked from a distance!

Congratulations to everyone who took part in the regatta at the weekend and many thanks to those who came along to support us.

Here are some photos to give a flavour of the weekend...they do say one picture is as good as a thousand words, which is just as well as I've no time to write much more!

Bankside support and post-race chilling is a vital part of any regatta. (Malcolm, Clare, Phil, Roger, Em, Clio)

"Bring on the final!" (Clare & Anna)

(above) Ready to race

(below) Clio crosses the finish line

(below) Clare and Malcolm soon after the start

(above) Em in a nail-biting semi-final

(below) Chris Jillings crosses the line

The pressure's on for Tim

Henley Royal Regatta, 2008

2008-07-08T22:11:00.013+01:00

Tim Earnshaw was in action last week at Henley Royal Regatta and has sent in the report below. I must say it was great to see our club kit out on this very special stretch of water...any more takers for next year??!!

“I had the honour last week of representing Deben Rowing Club at Henley Royal Regatta. We entered a composite crew in the Visitors’ Challenge Cup. Rowing with members of Meles Boat Club, The Tideway Scullers School and Upper Thames Rowing Club we drew Oxford Brooks University in the first round. Oxford Brooks were a 'selected' crew and were, sadly, just to fast for us. None the less it was a fantastic experience to participate again and a real thrill to race over the historic course.

HRR 2008 was also the 20th anniversary of the Tideway Scullers School win in The Thames Challenge Cup (of which I was fortunate enough to be a part). The Stewards very kindly granted us a row past the enclosures during the Saturday tea break and this was dedicated to the lives of Alec Hodges and Marcello Minale who were great rowing philanthropists who did much good for the sport of rowing. In the event we ended up rowing down with Hampton School who won the Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup that year. Needless to say it got a bit competitive but it great to be able to celebrate the lives of Marcello and Alec in that way.”

St Neots Regatta

2008-06-29T17:14:00.002+01:00

Hi! Please click on the link below for details of the regatta and give entry details, race fees and ARA numbers to Anna Morton by Wednesday 16th July if you want to be included in the club entry.

We are taking the trailer and I, for one, will be camping overnight to make the most of the BBQ and disco opportunities!

Regatta details: http://www.stneotsrc.co.uk/2008regattaposter.pdf

Peterborough Regatta, 2008

2008-06-09T20:22:00.003+01:00

While the rest of us were sheltering from the rain and then BBQ-ing, Chris and Cli were up in Peterborough representing the club at the annual regatta there. Hopefully a full report from one of them will follow soon, but I'm sure Clio won't mind me mentioning for now that she came second on both days - a very impressive result at a highly competitive regatta - well done & we all look forward to hearing more details soon...

Woodbridge Regatta

2008-06-09T19:55:00.005+01:00

Sunday 8th June witnessed the return of the Woodbridge Regatta and I think it's fair to say that a good day was had by all - even the sun came out to join in the fun!

The DRC main event was a grand BBQ, superbly organised by the Notcutts, staffed by them and their little (and not so little) helpers. Not only was it a 'No Food Miles' event (produce coming from Five Winds, Notcutts and the Cake Shop) and "the only BBQ with a riverside view", but it also tasted pretty good and raised lots of all-important pennies our the clubhouse fund, as well as the official Regatta charities. As the crowds streamed past, Keith made sure as many of them as possible were diverted to try the burgers and hot dogs.

Just behind the BBQ we set up an ergo challenge for anyone who wanted to see if they could beat the target times set by Will, Jane and Alexander.

Then, at 3.30pm we thought perhaps we should show that we did actually go out on the water in our fancy boats sometimes, so Eversons kindly set up a race for us. Starting by the quay at the tidemill, competitors had to row down to the first green channel-marker and, leaving it on their left (surprisingly tricky when you're facing the wrong way!), complete a speedy u-turn and row back up the channel to the finish line, level with the Cruising Club. Terry, John, Roger, Malcolm, Will and I all took part and after Formula1-esque start, Malcolm took the lead as we headed towards the green buoy. Luckily for Will, Malcolm thought he was racing to Ramsholt and back and forgot to turn round, leaving Mr Notcutt to steam ahead as the rest of us wobbled along in his wake to the finish, carefully negotiating all those yachts.

As always, many, many thanks to everyone for helping out on the day and taking part - it was one of those days that made me really proud to be part of our club, so big smiles all round!

Woodbridge Regatta & DRC BBQ Sunday 8th June

2008-05-17T18:34:00.002+01:00

As you should know by now, Sunday 8th June is the date of this year's Woodbridge Regatta.

The Grand Opening will take place at 13.45 outside Eversons (and our clubhouse, of course!), where the Mayor will be on hand to formally start things off.

There are a wide range of activities taking place on the day - please click here for a list, or I can email a pdf to you.

DRC will be holding a BBQ, so mark the date in your diary and encourage all your friends, families and colleagues to come along. Please get in touch with Will & Nicola if you will be able to help out as well.

Look forward to seeing you there!

City of Cambridge Sprints

2008-05-12T17:40:00.002+01:00

Clio won her first pot of the season at the City of Cambridge Sprints on Sunday. Drawn against one of her local rivals and former doubles partnersfrom Rob Roy, it was all to play for in somewhat of a grudge match as they stood one apiece at the start of the regatta.

Drawn on the favoured inside of the short 400m "banana" along the front of the Cambridge boathouses, Clio was not out of the blocks too well against the more specialist Robs sprinter, on her home patch, but dogged determination kept our girl in touch.

With the volume of bank side noisereaching a deafening roar, Clio inched back, lined up for the last 100m and let loose her ever-improving power sprint, passing her opponent in the last few strokes to win by 3 feet.

The long day was capped off with a stylish paddle up the course to collect her pot, as the opposition for the final scratched.

All in all it was a great day's work, made all the more impressive by the fact that she had also competed in the Head to Head in the morning, consisting of back-to-back 2000m pieces down to the A14 bridge.

Congratulations, Clio!! And many thanks to Chris J. for this write-up.

Junior Team-EAST Selection for Clio

2008-04-06T16:52:00.001+01:00

A rather belated note to say that, following her success in the regional trials, Clio will once again be representing the eastern region in the Junior Inter-Regional Regatta in Nottingham on April 19th. More information about the event can be found out on the website: http://www.jirr.org/index.html

Anyone who can't remember how well she did last year can also check out our blog archive!

Good luck, Clio! We're all looking forward to hearing how you get on...

DRC Makes a Splash in Cambridge

2008-03-13T22:16:00.005Z

Cambridge Winter League

This was to be another weekend of windy conditions and off-putting weather forecasts, but fortunately the race went ahead as planned and lots of red t-shirts took to the water in singles, doubles and Raedwald. Ken and Chris started off with their races in the 1st division; Jane & I, the Gentleman's 4+, Clio, Em and Tim raced in the 2nd; Chris and Tim raced for a second time in the 3rd division, whilst John and Terry also went out in their trusty double; finally in division 4 Clare & Em and Ken & Nick battled against the pouring rain and wind in their doubles.

Once again club members put in an excellent effort and it was another really enjoyable day. Sadly the weather wasn't quite as good for photography as last time (and also I was the only one wielding a camera!), but I have a few more to put in the album soon. Full results can be seen at CRA online too.

Two results that deserve a mention right now, however, are wins for Clio in the jnr women's singles (is there any stopping her?!) and for Jane & I in the women's doubles. Hurray!! The boys really have some catching up to do now...

Cambridge Champs Junior Head

For the second year running, Clio (seen here showing off her medal from the NJIRC) represented the club at this special head race for juniors and came away with two prizes - one for her single and one for a composite double.

National Junior Indoor Rowing Championships

2008-03-06T09:28:00.004Z

Clio took part in the NJIRC yesterday...and came home with a silver medal!!

This is an outstanding result - she hasn't yet told me what her time was, but let's just say I don't think I'll be challenging her to any 2k competitions in the near future (or ever, in fact).

Anyone interested in finding out more about the champs can click on the link above.

WELL DONE, CLIO!!

Norwich Head & Capsize Drill

2008-02-25T09:10:00.005Z

Last weekend was another busy one for DRC...

Norwich Head, Feb 23rd - Clio bravely made the trip across the county boundary and up to Norwich to compete in both her single and a composite double, while Chris Jillings also flew the DRC flag in his single. Clio and her partner from Norwich did particularly well in their race, coming first in their category and second fastest in the whole division. Full results can be found on the Norwich website.

Capsize Drill, Feb 24th - David Hodgkinson organised an excellent session for us to all practice falling out of boats (I'll avoid too many jokes about his experience at that!) and he & Lewis Dann also gave us some basic CPR instruction. I certainly feel a lot more confident about the prospect of tipped out of a scull now (and it turns out that Oliver can knock out a pretty good drum roll when upside down in the water), but hopefully it'll be a while before any of us have to put our new-found skills to the test.

CWL - February 17th 2008

2008-02-17T21:22:00.016Z

With car thermometers reading -7 as we headed to Cambridge, it could have been a pretty miserable day of getting cold and tired on the water. Luckily the sun soon started warming things up, though, and we could hardly have asked for better conditions.

Ken and Chris braved the 9am start in D1, while the rest of us decided that divisions 2, 3 and 4 were much more civilised. During the rest of the day we had a good turnout from the women (Clio, Clare, Em, Jane, Katherine & Anna) in doubles and singles; Tim battled up and down the river twice in his single, Terry and John teamed up in Reg, the Gentleman's 4+ put in a good effort (despite a little brush with the bank...or was it another boat?) and then kindly stepped aside for the mixed 4+ (Oliver, Simon, Jane & Anna) to take to the water.

At the time of writing, I don't know the results, but can confidently say that we all did really well!!

John Churcher deserves a special mention for rowing the course no less than 6 times (!) and many thanks go to Tim for organising the tow truck and safely transporting the boats to Cambridge and back.

Thanks also to Clare for taking most of these photos (more in the album, please follow right-hand link). As always, feel free to send me any more by email if you'd like me to add them.

Results can be found at CRA online - Well Done DRC!

Races in Feb and March

2008-01-28T16:39:00.001Z

Hello! I just thought I would draw your attention to some good races coming up in the next few weeks.

Cambridge Winter League (17th Feb and 9th March) - As the first leg was cancelled due to flooding and bad weather, the annual series has been shortened to two races. Time is short and it is usually oversubscribed so anyone wishing to enter the Feb stage should contact me asap.

Norwich Head (23rd Feb) - Full details available on the Norwich RC web page. The course is 4,600m upstream on the Yare - it's long, but not liable to flooding (and cancellation) and a good winter challenge. There's also the promise of a warm welcome and post-race refreshments at NRC.

I regret that members wishing to enter will have to organise their own entries and transport for this race, as I am not able to do it.

Cambridge Champs Junior Head (8th March) - A special head race for juniors. Clio took part last year and it would be great to see the other juniors who've joined the club in the last year taking part this time as well. Full details are on the poster in the clubhouse, or I can email them to you.

January Leg of Winter League Cancelled

2008-01-12T14:20:00.000Z

Very disappointing news that due to flooding and a bad weather forecast, the first stage of the CWL has been cancelled. The February and March races will take place as normal - more details to follow soon :-(

Pudding Races

2008-01-06T19:21:00.001Z

Unlike our summer fun day, Raedwald smiled on us today and we were blessed with sunshine, high tide and (relatively) low winds for the first ever DRC Pudding Races.

Tim was master of ceremonies and drew names out of a hat (okay, bucket) to decide the crews and, after a little admiration of the new ramp, we all set off down to the red buoys near Waldringfield. There were just the right number of people for the following doubles: Tim & Oli, Terry & John, Anna & Mark, Bev & Chris, Clio & Em, Roger & Andy. With the tide racing out and wind blowing off the Waldringfield bank, the course rowed by each boat was going to be crucial; four crews decided to cling to the bank, whilst two braved it out on the Methersgate side of the channel. Bev and Chris set off first and set a good pace for the rest of us to maintain. With approx. 1000m gone, Mark & I took the lead, closely followed by Roger & Andy and these two boats stayed neck and neck up towards Methersgate. At this point the others had a little steering difficulty (!) and I thought Mark & I were going to steam ahead to the finish...the trouble was that we were actually only about half way and just a couple of minutes later Roger & Andy started to pull ahead of us. Just as I thought it couldn't get any worse, Oli & Tim appeared from nowhere and also steamed past us to the finish. Terry & John meanwhile had also sneaked up on the other side of the river, but I think we just managed to stay in front. The two women's doubles also battled well against the tide and wind, crossing the finish line shortly afterwards.

Back on the bank, we celebrated with a little bubbly and awarded the puddings to Roger & Andy - a pretty impressive result considering that they hadn't even realised the races were on until they arrived at the clubhouse!

Thanks for adding another great even to the DRC year, Tim :-)

SANTA AND ELF SPOTTED ON RAMP

2008-01-05T13:34:00.000Z

The days of sliding precariously sideways towards the Deben finally ended today as our sparkling new ramp welcomed its first users. As was only right and fitting, the first person to enjoy its delights was Mr Ramp himself, Sir Terry Davey MBE supported by his able helper Sir John Churcher. New railings and some protective edging will be added soon. A huge thanks to Terry and everyone involved in making it happen.

Sunday

2008-01-04T20:54:00.000Z

Pudding Races on Sunday:

As ever: We are not entirely sure what weather Raedwald is going to throw at us on Sunday. At the worst , after an ergo, we may adjourn to the station café for a Full English. At best, we will race and then enjoy glass of something plus nibbles at the club house followed by the Cherry Tree.
In any event we will not be asking for a cap but you may care to contribute a bottle of something or maybe some bikkies or cake to the festivities.

Look forward to seeing you all on Sunday.

Tim

New Ramp

2008-01-04T14:33:00.000Z

Here are some pictures of our new ramp. What a great way to start the New Year and a big THANK YOU to all involved!!

Hopefully lots of you will be down at the club on Sunday for Pudding Races and official ramp opening celebrations.

Carrow Cup

2007-12-17T09:36:00.000Z

This Saturday saw another good DRC turnout and fancy dress parade for the Carrow Cup in Norwich. As promised by the organisers, the atmosphere was relaxed and friendly, but that certainly didn't stop anyone from racing hard.

In Division 1 we entered two women's novice doubles (Jane & I and Clare and Emma) and Raedwald also took to the water with John coxing Simon N., Simon H., Tim and David.

Division 2 saw Tim & Simon H. downsizing to a Vet C double, while Santa and his Little Helper represented the club in the Vet F category, and Jane & Malcolm teamed up for a mixed novice double.

Particular congratulations go to:

Clare - for taking part in her first ever sculling race in the middle of December, whilst also wearing a Santa hat.

Simon N. & Tim - for winning the Vet C 2x category. (Although who knows what would have happened if Simon H. and David had been able to race as well?!)

Jane & Malcolm - for winning the Mixed Novice 2x category, despite not having rowed together before. (This also makes it a victory three years running for Jane...and each one with a different man - no wonder she felt the need to jump into the river to cool down afterwards!!)

John & Terry - for their Santa & Little Helper festive fancy dress.

More photos in album (see righthand link)...

54th Scullers Head

2007-12-09T20:18:00.000Z

December 1st saw Simon and Tim stage a rematch of their epic tussle of the Norfolk Long Distance Sculls but this time at the 54th Scullers Head over the 4.25 mile championship course from Mortlake to Putney on the Tideway.
Some of the top names were missing from the 500-odd scullers starting the race but the Deben contingent were unable to fully capitalise on the opportunity and finished a modest 307th and 280th respectivly. Once again local knowledge was probably the key with a mere 14 seconds separating our noble scullers over the 24 minute duration.
It was first time at the event for both competitors and after a paddle over the course on Friday, Saturday dawned cold but fair. Boating out of Thames RC, the winter sun shone with only a stiff headwind after Hammersmith to trouble the equanimity. After a long wait at the muster it was under Chiswick Bridge and "Go!" from the start marshall. All that remained then was to go bananas for the next four plus miles. Neither of our noble athletes earned a winners pennant but both experienced the ambiguous pleasure of being passed and, yes, actually passing fellow scullers.
Great facilities were provided at Thames and we hope for a more numerous Anglo Saxon invasion party next year.
All in all a great event. Definately to be repeated.

Tim

Mr & Mrs Boatclub (or should that be Notcutt?!)

2007-12-09T17:27:00.000Z

Many congratulations to Will and Nicola who got married yesterday!!!!

Needless to say, we won't be seeing them down at the river for a week or two (or four!), but we wish them all the very best for their future together, on and off the water!

They've also asked me to pass on many, many thanks for their cards and gifts.

Norfolk Long Distance Sculls, Saturday, Dec 17th, 2007

2007-11-23T20:29:00.000Z

Gruelling, cold and bordering on madness....and that was just loading the boats at 6.30am! The car heaters were on level 4 as the Deben flotilla (well mini-flotilla) headed north last Saturday for this year's Long Distance Sculls - 4,400m of hell on the River Yare. In the first division, myself (Vet B 1x); Tim Earnshaw (Vet C 1x); and Roger and his son Andy (Nov 2x) flew the red and yellow flag (well I would if my one piece had arrived in time..).
Jarrett and son came a respectable 2nd out of five novice doubles finishing the course in 19:36. Great effort, particularly as this was only Andy's second race. Tim E was in among a very competitive field of Vet C boats including many on home water. Tim finished the course in 19:15, placing him 4th from six boats. Again very respectable as this race is as much about the course you steer as boat speed. I was one of three Vet B boats and managed to overtake one half way down the course. I did have the advantage of knowing the river (I used to be a member of NRC) so that helped and I was surprised to find I was the fastest boat, finishing in 19:06. All this marathon training I think. That or the nandrolone.
As a point of interest, the fastest sculler of the day was a (lightweight) chap from Sudbury who finished the course in 17:15! A friend of mine from NRC said he was happily chugging along at 29 spm when this guy went past at 34. Something to aim for next time you're battling the waves at Waldringfield. Or maybe not.
The second division is a shorter 2,500m and is downstream. Clio and Em were entered in the W Nov 1x, with Clio continuing her zippy turn of pace, clinching another DRC victory with a time of 11:56. Em was also on great form and continues to improve, racing home in 13:00. Plenty of good form to build on. Thanks to Terry for coming along and supporting our young members. DRC's very own Obi-Wan Kenobi once again urging us all to "feel the force"..(All we need now is a member called Luke).
Finally Tim and I entered the last long division as Vet C 2x. We'd only been out twice but to blow our own trumpet we fared pretty well....until we got boxed in by a combination of my inept steering and an oncoming gin palace which brought us, temporarily, to an abrupt stop. We claim it lost us about four minutes...but we may be slightly mistaken.
Overall a great performance from DRC - two pots from five status events isn't a bad tally. Bring on the Carrow Cup. They won't know what hit 'em! Simon.

DRC in 'Rowing & Regatta'

2007-11-13T13:49:00.001Z

Does anyone know if the club has had a mention in Rowing and Regatta before? Well, I think this might be the first time so here it is for anyone who's not yet seen it.

Bit of a shame about the punctuation, though :-)

Rowing Captain's Report 2006-7

2007-11-13T11:32:00.000Z

Here is a copy of my report which was written for the AGM. I thought it would be good to publish it here as well so everyone can see what a busy year we've had!

My first thoughts when I realised that I was required to do a report on the past year were "what on earth am I going to say?"! I shouldn't have worried, however, as thinking back, DRC members have had a pretty busy year of racing. (If you've been out racing, but don't see any mention of it below, it'll be because you didn't tell me about it, so no complaints, please!)

The Carrow Cup last December was my first experience of putting in entries and gathering the troops, so it was fantastic to find that not only did we have a trailer-full of boats and a couple of people racing for the first time, but there was also a brilliant response to my (admittedly v. cheeky) suggestion that we should go as the Deben Nativity.

With their go-faster wings and tinsel, Oliver & Jane won the mixed novice double category, whilst Neil and Jamie Cawthorn also blasted to victory in the men's novice doubles. All in all it was going to be a tough act to follow...

After Christmas, there was hardly a moment to spare before thoughts turned to the Cambridge Winter League (a series of three races on the Cam - one in January, February and March). "So, I need to organise the entries, how hard can it be?" I thought and compiled a nice form for everyone to fill in and give back to me with their entry fees. What I hadn't taken into account was how quickly the spaces for the race get filled, or that one of our doubles would chopped in half during a storm, or that we might not be able to get to Cambridge in time for the Division 1 start time of 9am, or that some people would put in their own entries, and probably lots more besides! Anyway, with a little help from my friends, most problems got solved and nearly everyone got to do their desired races. For the first race in January we had 14 DRC boats competing and it really did feel fantastic to see so many of us there on the water and with parents cheering us on from the bank (or was that fishing their children out of the water?!). The entries tailed off a little for the next two races, but Ken and Roger were two members who stuck it out, even braving the early start to make boat sharing easier, and were rewarded by a win in the men's doubles category, so once more DRC brought home pots!

Next on the racing calendar was a special Junior Head in Cambridge, where Clio did what we all knew she soon would, and picked up prizes not only in the J13 and J14 categories, but also for her stylish steering! Hot on the heels of this Clio went on to come 8th (out of 80) in the Indoor Rowing Championships and was then selected to represent the Eastern Counties in the Junior Championships at Nottingham. Not at all bad for a young 'un.

Meanwhile, others in the club were taking part in the Deben Challenge. The conditions were tough to say the least and John C. and Nick R. clearly felt that simply rowing 22 miles in rough water and cold weather wasn't quite challenging enough (!). Many congratulations to the new sons & daughters of the Deben: Jane Gotts, Clio Aubugeau-Williams, Anna Morton, John Churcher, Nick Redman, Ian Parke, Oliver Tomlinson, Chris Jillings and also Will Notcutt who completed the challenge later in the year, even though it nearly cost him his fiancée (in fact, it's still a bit of a sore subject so perhaps I shouldn't have mentioned it...).

Also in April, Tim raced in an VIII with Thames BC in the Vets Head, coming a very commendable 3rd (out of 25).

During May we were enjoying coaching from Michael Streat and the fact that lighter evenings meant there was more time for rowing (and catching up on gossip in the Cherry Tree afterwards). Simon H., David H., Michael and I also swapped sculls for trainers and took part in the Woodbridge 10km run.

In June Chris Jillings, Clio and Alex L. went to Peterborough Regatta and...you've guessed it, came back with more pots - hurray! Alex not only lost her novice status, but gained a senior point too and Clio won the J14 single sculls. Not to be out-done by the juniors, John Churcher showed he was prepared to lead by example when he won his event at the Isle of Ely Regatta.

July turned out to be a bit of a disappointing month when, after much hard training and frantic practising of race starts, St Neots Regatta was cancelled due to flooding. It was just as well that we had a club dinner and Sudbury Regatta to look forward to.

What with holidays etc. it can be hard to get crews together for summer regattas, but despite this, there was a good turnout of DRC members who wanted to go and strut their stuff in neighbouring Sudbury. The sun shone, the band played and Ken & Roger, Will & Nicola and Simon Newton made their presence felt on the water. Nicola did very well in her first regatta, Will not only towed the trailer, but also rowed the course countless times, successfully intimidating the opposition only to be unluckily beaten in his Novice 1x final. Simon's excellent steering (the reeds can wade out into the river to get in your way over there, I'm told) and stamina led him to victory in the Vet C 1x, so once more it was a proud day for the club.

After Sudbury, we could all relax a little and look forward to our club fun day and BBQ. Now, as we all know, the slightest whiff of a BBQ can bring out the rain clouds and this year was sadly no exception. There was a brief lull in the downpour that enabled us to get everyone out on the water, including a couple of members who'd only been in a boat once or twice before, in some craft or other. Malcolm, ably assisted by his children, waited in the launch at the finish line to record the race results, while the rest of us (split up into two teams) battled it out from the green buoy to Methersgate. After this, we indulged in a free-for-all race back home...only no-one was quite sure when to start or where the finish line was! Unfortunately by this time, the rain had started again in earnest and we were very glad of all the excellent BBQ food to warm us up as the rain dripped through the roof of the clubhouse. Despite the weather, I'm sure everyone would agree that it was a great day and very pleasing that people also felt able to bring along their friends and family.

September was a very busy month for the club and things kicked off with the Maritime Woodbridge weekend. It was decided that we should get as many boats on the water as possible, and also that the Mayor should be invited to come onboard in the tub IV as we provided an escort for the Sae Wyfling (replica Sutton Hoo ship). The tide was high, the sun shone and I was particularly pleased to see everyone wearing their bright red DRC kit. No sooner were we off the water, than it was time to start boat loading for Cambridge Autumn Regatta the following day.

The junior girls were out in force at Cambridge Autumn, with Clio, Em, Kate, Katherine and Vicki all racing in a combination of doubles and singles. There were some extremely close races and they were all unlucky not to come away with any wins. As the day wore on, the pressure turned to Malcolm and I as we made it through two heats and into the final. We took the lead at the start and were encouraged by our vociferous supporters on the bank, but at about half way the pressure got to us and the other crew started to pull ahead. Despite our best efforts to come back at them, we were unsuccessful and things were made worse by knowing that the guy in the other boat had been the one who knocked Malcolm out of the 1x heat as well! Nevertheless, it was a fun day and we were grateful for Terry's support on the bank, as well as for all the backup and cheering from parents and families - a nice end to the regatta season.

There's no rest for the wicked, however, and the next weekend four members of the club trekked up to Lincoln for the Boston (rowing) Marathon - a 50km race and not for the faint-hearted. Simon N. & Tim were part of a composite Vet C VIII and stole the show by being not only the fastest boat on the day, but also the fastest Vet crew ever! Ian & I were not to be outdone, though, and contented ourselves with winning our category and also setting a new course record for the Mixed Novice 2x - it took a long time coming, but it was a pretty exciting way to get my first sculling pot!

As the next weekend came around, my friends and family decided once and for all that I was certifiably mad as Ian & I decided to race again in the Yare Cup (a mere 3700m). Malcolm, John Churcher and Chris Jillings all raced as well, but on this occasion we had to content ourselves with enjoying the BBQ and sunshine afterwards instead of collecting pots.

The 6th October saw DRC members out racing once more with Chris J. & Clio out on the Thames in the Pairs Head and Terry, John C., Clio, Em and Kate going to the Cambridge Small Boats Head. Once more it was our Chairman's turn to steal the show as he won the Vet E category.

Phew. What a great year we've had - well done everyone!!!!

You can, of course, find out more about all of the above by looking back at the articles on our blog and by clicking on the photos section on the right-hand side of the blog.

I'm going to take this opportunity to wish everyone racing in the Norfolk Sculls this weekend "Good Luck" and also to flag up this year's Carrow Cup on December 15th - put it in your diaries and start planning your festive fancy dress!

Thanks for reading this far and giving me so many great events to write about - we can all look forward to DRC going onwards and upwards over the next year, I'm sure. Well done to everyone who's been out racing, and also thank you to the people who've made it all possible in so many different ways; whether it's training beginners, helping us on and off the water, towing the trailer or keeping me sane during boat loading, it's all been a team effort.

Anna Morton

Rowing Captain Nov. 2006-7

Tidal Surge, 9th November

2007-11-12T09:39:00.000Z

Last Friday the Deben, along with other tidal rivers in the area, experienced a "surge" due to the combination of a high ("spring") tide and low pressure out in the North Sea which also raised sea levels and brought stormy conditions to the East Coast. Luckily we weren't badly affected by flooding, but Simon Newton did get these impressive photos of the high water.

Winter Kit

2007-11-08T12:11:00.000Z

Hello!

Now that we're offically into winter, it's especially important to keep warm out on the water and also to have something cosy to change into after rowing. As I take my pastoral duties very seriously (wouldn't want anyone to get cold or have an excuse to skive), I've done some research and found a supplier of hoodies and beanies.

Beanies - red fleece hats, with DRC logo in gold stitching on the front @ £9 +VAT
Hoodies - red, with DRC logo printed in white on the back and `Deben Rowing Club' printed in white on the front @ £20 +VAT

Please tell me by 12th Nov. if you'd like to be included in the order.

DRC AGM, 12th November, 2007, 8pm

2007-10-24T13:34:00.000+01:00

This year's club AGM will be held at the Bull Hotel (back room), Woodbridge on Monday 12th November at 8pm.

All club members are encouraged to come along to have their say in choosing a committee for the next year and also participating in discussions about the club.

I'd particularly like to encourage people who've joined the club in recent years to consider standing for a position on the committee. You should be prepared to make yourself available (where possible) for committee meetings (roughly every two months) and should be prepared to give some time to helping out generally, as well as any specific duties that go with the position you're intrested in.

Here is a list of the committee roles:

Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Hon. Treasurer, Vice-Treasurer, Secretary (as well as possibly new position of Assistant Secretary), Rowing Captain, Vice-Rowing Captain, Junior Rowing Captain, Social Secretary, Membership Secretary, Safety Advisor, Ordinary Members (x3)

Please feel free to contact me or anyone else on committee if you'd like to know more about what's involved. As Anna H. mentioned in her email, nominations should be sent to her.

Pairs Head & Cambridge Small Boats Head, 6 October 2007

2007-10-08T17:03:00.000+01:00

Last weekend was another busy one for members of the club...

Clio & Chris J. took part in the Pairs Head on the Thames. Despite a nasty headwind, they put in a great effort and completed the course in 15mins, 31secs.

Kate, Em, John & Terry also went to Cambridge for the small boats head...

TD has kindly sent in this report on the race:

"Cambridge Small Boats was a triumph for Churcher Vet E who settled into a good style and rhythm after the bends, then went on to win.

The Davey/ Churcher Vet F in the old ‘HighTec’ double scull Reg (bought from Rob Roy many years ago for £600) went very well despite the antique boat and the crew’s combined age of 122 years. They failed to win a prize as there were no other competitors in the category; I guess the others had heard we were racing!

The junior double of Em and Kate were very stylish down to the start but lost a lot of time in the race through an equipment fault and a brush with the bank side. Even then, they were not the slowest boat. So, well done Em & Kate it's looking good for next time!"

Full results can be found here:

http://www.robroyboatclub.org.uk/events/sbh/2007/results.html (Thanks, Will H!)

Well done all of you!!!

Yare Cup, 22 September

2007-09-26T15:24:00.000+01:00

Last Sunday Chris Jillings, John Churcher, Malcolm Pidd, Ian Parke and I all went to Norwich to compete in the Yare Cup. It was a bright, sunny day and great to row on the lovely stretch of river there (I even managed to avoid the willow trees this year!). After the racing, Yare welcomed all participants back to a BBQ at their clubhouse. Sadly all the pots seemed to go to Norwich RC or Yare on this occasion, but DRC hopefully enjoyed the racing nevertheless and got some good times:

Chris: 16.32, John: 18.32, Malcolm: 16.38, Anna & Ian: 15.33

DRC Members Break Records in Boston Marathon!

2007-09-17T17:31:00.000+01:00

Sunday 16th September was the day of the annual Boston (Rowing) Marathon, which takes place on a 50km stretch of water, starting from Lincoln and finishing in Boston. This year there were over 200 crews, among them Anna & Ian (Mixed Novice 2x) and Tim and Simon (part of a composite Vet C. VIII).

Not only did we all complete this gruelling challenge, but both crews set new course records in their categories and Tim & Simon's crew was the fastest boat of the day!! Truly oarsome results - HURRAY for DRC!!!

Ian & I also rowed the course in our double last year, so this time we were both determined to get to the finish a bit sooner, even though we only decided to enter two weeks before the event. Ian sat in the stern, with the stopwatch, keeping an eye on how long it took us to get from one km marker to the next, while I battled to steer us round a few corners, past other crews, out of the way of launches, barges & cruisers, and also to keep in time. By the time we got to 13km, where everyone has to get their boat out of the water, over a steep embankment and down onto the other side of the lock gate, we knew we were ahead of our opposition. After this the course got very bendy for a few km, so there was always the possibility that they could have been sneaking up on us without us having noticed. Also from this point onwards, we had the pleasure of a good, strong headwind to make things a bit more challenging. Luckily with all our training on the Deben, we weren't fazed by the wind and waves (well, perhaps only a little) and I did my best to give a running commentary on which boats we were catching up to pass the time and take our minds off the pain; luckily there were quite a few doubles and singles ahead, as well as one junior girls quad who were merrily singing "Build Me Up Buttercup" down the course and a man in a single who was doing the marathon for the 40th time! There were also things to watch...like cows on the bank and cruisers creating nice big waves for us to row through. We had a very strong (or should that be loud?) on-shore support party (comprising of Ian's wife and her sister) whose shouts of "Give it some welly" and "Stop slacking" could be heard long before we could see them; they very kindly took these photos for us too. For most of the course there were markers for each km and once we got into the 40s it began to feel as if we might actually make it to the end afterall. At this point the course straightened out too and Ian told me we were managing to keep to 5mins per km and we started thinking of the remaining distance in relation to what it would have been on the Deben, such as Ramsholt to the clubhouse. It was only as we passed 48km and Ian told me that our time so far was 4hrs, 15mins that I suddenly realised that we might actually have a chance of beating the previous course record for our category...the tower of the church in Boston came into view next (I knew this was beyond the finish) and with more cheering from the bank to spurr us on, we even managed to overtake just one more crew seconds before crossing the line. Our official time was 4hrs 25mins - 20mins faster than our previous time, 3mins faster than the previous record, first in the mixed novice doubles on the day and faster than even some S2 and S4 crews. Ian says next time we have to try and break the 4hr mark...

Cambridge Autumn Regatta, 9 September

2007-09-11T09:09:00.000+01:00

Congratulations to everyone who took part in the regatta on Sunday and thanks to Terry and all the parents who made sure that shouts of "Come on Deben" could be heard all along the course. Also, particular thanks to Malcolm for towing the trailer and steering it so well around the tight corners at the entrance to the regatta site (more than can be said for certain other clubs!).

More photos are in the gallery on the right of the blog & I have others to follow soon (when I have a chance to upload them). Also, there was at least one parent/photographer with a very snazzy camera, so it would be great it anyone could send me copies of their shots to add as well! For now here is a shot of Em & Clio in action in the women's J15 2x:

Em & Clio's race in the double was one of the closest of the day, with both boats running pretty much level up the course for pretty much a photo finish which sadly showed the other girls crossing the line just inches ahead.

Katherine and Vicki also had a great race in the final of the Women's Novice doubles category, taking the lead not long before the finish, but then having an unlucky incident with a crab, allowing the Weybridge opposition to clinch victory.

Malcolm and I competed in the Mixed Novice doubles and won our first two heats, only to be beaten by a couple of youngsters from Derby RC. Even more annoyingly, the guy in the Derby crew was the same chap that knocked Malcolm out of the Novice 1x heat!

Em, Clio, Kate & Vicki all put in great efforts in their singles heats (Clio made it through two and was narrowly beaten in the final) - luck just didn't seem to be with DRC on this occasion - and I'm sure it won't be long before I get to write about them winning races over the winter racing season..!