A diverse field is racing at Bedford Regatta this weekend, with clubs entered from across the country. After some solid results at Wallingford from many crews that overturned the previous season rankings, Bedford should be a very exciting regatta.
Lady Eleanor Holles
After a tight victory this weekend at Wallingford regatta, winning by two seconds, LEH will be walking out with their heads held high. They have three crews entered, one of which is fast-tracked to the second round of racing, which may be quite an advantage as there are a potential four races in total. LEH had a bit of a rocky start with an eighth place at Schools’ Head in the Championship WJ15 8+, which came as a slight shock after their dominance at Kingston, winning by a clear ten seconds, and their second place at Quintin. However, they seemed to have stepped up their game substantially, with some winning spirit in the boat which took them from second place in their heat by six seconds to winning the final by two! After this impressive result I can definitely see at least one LEH crew making the final this weekend.
Headington
Headington only have one eight entered for this event, despite entering two for Wallingford. Wallingford did not seem to display Headington’s best side, not qualifying for their final in either boat: this was surprising given their win at School’s Head. Hopefully with one crew entered, Headington will be ready to put on their best performance and move up the rankings before national schools regatta.
Latymer Upper School
At Wallingford, Latymer came fifth and sixth in their heats, and after a fifth place at Schools’ Head, I think we can expect them to put up a fight for places in the final. They have three boats entered, which shows their enthusiasm and excitement to race as well as their depth of squad. Will we see a return from Latymer?
Notable Mentions
Racing on home turf may give Bedford Girls’ an advantage, who came tenth at Schools’ Head and at Quintin. Their fellow home turf racers, Bedford Modern School, slotted in two positions behind at School’s Head, could a showdown be imminent?
Predictions
Given their strong results so far this season, I reckon the win will go to Lady Eleanor Holles. Though Latymer and the two home crews may put up a fight for the runner-up positions, Headington cannot be counted out to challenge them. However, Latymer’s three entries to their one may help in their fight for a strong result.
