As the National Schools’ Regatta approaches, all eyes turn to Bedford Regatta, where one of the weekend’s most anticipated matchups will be decided in a single side-by-side clash between Latymer Upper School Boat Club and Bedford School Boat Club. With only one shot at the title, expect a fiercely contested showdown as both crews push to their limits.
Latymer Upper School Boat Club
Latymer Upper School Boat Club come into the regatta as firm favourites, having secured an impressive second place at the recent Wallingford Regatta. Boasting considerable depth across their crew, they are expected to set the standard in this matchup. Notably, they achieved that Wallingford result without one of their key athletes, Raph Corbett, who was representing Great Britain at the Munich International Regatta. Corbett’s international debut was nothing short of spectacular, winning two gold medals, one in the pair with Abingdon School Boat Club’s Edward Bayfield and another in the eight. He also placed third at the recent GB Trials in Nottingham alongside crew member Zach Holden, finishing just 0.3 seconds behind the King’s College School pair. Latymer also claimed victory at Bedford Regatta last year and will be eager to defend their title in style.
Bedford School Boat Club
Racing on home water, Bedford School Boat Club will undoubtedly benefit from familiar surroundings and vocal local support. They lined up directly against Latymer at Wallingford and finished fourth overall, just under six seconds adrift. That performance shows they are within striking distance, and they’ll no doubt be looking to close the gap and challenge Latymer to the line.
Predictions
Given their form and the return of Corbett, Latymer Upper are the clear favourites and will be difficult to stop. Expect a hard-fought race, but one that Latymer should take with confidence.
About The Author
Discover more from JRN
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
