The Open Junior 18 Singles event is set to be an all-out battle, with over 100 entries making it one of the largest and most competitive categories of the weekend. As the season nears its close, this event brings together a mix of experienced scullers and rising talent, all looking to make their final mark.
The Windsor Boys’ School Boat Club
The Windsor Boys’ School Boat Club is fielding four entries, all of whom are doubling up from their Henley-winning quad — a crew that stormed to victory in the The Fawley Challenge Cup for the second consecutive year. Their success extends across the season, with dominant wins at the National Schools’ Regatta and Marlow Regatta in the quad. Now splitting into singles, these athletes bring a wealth of high-level racing experience and exceptional boat-moving ability. Most notably, Wellington stands out. A 2024 Junior World Rowing Championships representative in the GB quad and a future Princeton recruit, he is a sculler of rare calibre. I expect him to set the standard with his blend of power, technical skill, and racing maturity.
Hartpury University and College Boat Club
With six entries, Hartpury once again show the depth and strength of their GB Start-affiliated programme. Known for developing strong scullers, their athletes are no strangers to high-performance environments and long-distance racing. While individual names are less well-known at this stage, their collective presence signals a serious threat across the draw.
Durham Amateur Rowing Club
Mosley from Durham Amateur Rowing Club is another name to watch. He placed second at the National Schools’ Regatta in the single, navigating particularly tricky conditions in Nottingham – a valuable test of mental resilience and boat-handling skills. With the National Schools’ Regatta winner absent this time, Mosley will see this as a real opportunity to step up and challenge for the top spot.
Predictions
With his exceptional international pedigree and a strong domestic record, Wellington of The Windsor Boys’ School enters as the favourite. However, he’s likely to face strong pressure from Mosley, whose composure and strength in the single have already earned him silverware this season. If conditions turn tough, Mosley’s grit could bring the race right down to the line.
