The Remenham Challenge Cup is an eight’s race, and the only sweep event for women at Henley Royal Regatta. As an Open event, it is often contested by international and top UK composite crews. Being one of only two crews out of eleven to qualify the previous Friday, the girls knew what a task there was ahead, but also what a privilege it would be to have the opportunity to represent Cambridge at Henley Royal Regatta, the most prestigious rowing regatta in the world.
At the draw, CUWBC drew Hollandia Roeiclub, Holland; the top women’s eight in the Netherlands who had had a successful season thus far and who would eventually reach the Remenham final against the GB Eight. Despite the tough draw, Rob was ever the optimist and wanted to show what his girls could do by setting a mark for the 2015 season. With that in mind, the race plan was not to ‘fly and die’ but to row a strong race from start to finish, demonstrating the strength and resilience of CUWBC and its programme.
On Friday, with a very strong and gusty headwind, the girls lined up against Hollandia. Cambridge had a very strong start and maintained an overlap until the end of the Island, pushing Holland the entire way up the course and forcing them to increase their rate at one point after a momentous push saw Cambridge take a length out of their lead.
The final result was 3 and a half lengths in a time of 7.44. It was a fantastic event and a great opportunity for the girls returning next year to set the bar and show what they’re capable of. While the result didn’t go their way, it was an extremely valuable experience and has got everybody very excited for the prospects of 2015.
Thanks must go to the Development Squad members who came out to support, and then having to return to Cambridge swiftly to complete an ergo session! And of course to Rob, Paddy and Nick, and all those behind the scenes, without whom CUWBC wouldn’t have reached anywhere near as far as they have this year. Finally to those on the banks, or at home avidly following their Twitter feeds – your continued support is much appreciated.