Hampton Small Boats Head is a significant and competitive event on the Molesey stretch and is a great way for crews to test their speed against some high-calibre combinations in the head race season. A standout category in my eyes is the women’s Junior 16 double sculls, with a stacked field promising some close competition this weekend.
Lady Eleanor Holles Boat Club
With a total of six crews entered, Lady Eleanor Holles School will be hoping that this internal club competition will push their rowers to higher, faster, and stronger performances, securing a win this weekend. Entering such a large number of boats not only increases their chances of success but also showcases the impressive strength and depth within their squad, demonstrating the broad talent base that earned their first and second Junior 15 eights a spot in the A-final at National Schools’ Regatta. It also suggests that the squad environment is highly competitive, with athletes constantly challenging one another for seats.
Putney High School Boat Club
Putney High School has a history of producing some incredibly powerful crews on the junior level. Strong performances at the National Schools’ Regatta in the Junior 15 eight showed the sweeping prowess and experience within the club, and if this can be transferred into sculling, Putney High School have an opportunity to challenge for a medal. Their training stretch on the Tideway means they will be well used to rowing under challenging conditions that require adaptability, resilience, and precise boat handling. This experience can give Putney crews a crucial edge over their competitors, who primarily train in calmer waters.
Nottinghamshire County Rowing Association
Nottinghamshire County consistently demonstrates their ability to form dominant junior crews that can hold their own in national-level competitions. In 2025, NCRA won the Victor Ludorum at the Leicester Regatta, highlighting not only the exceptional individual talent within the squad but also their strength across multiple boat classes and age groups. This is reinforced by a silver medal in the Junior 16 quadruple sculls at the Junior Inter-Regional Regatta 2025, showing the club’s potential when racing against the best in the country. With a proven track record and a squad full of talented athletes, Nottinghamshire County RA will aim to deliver another strong performance this weekend, confident in both their preparation and ability to challenge for top honours.
Claires Court School Boat Club
Leaving a strong 2024/25 season behind them, Claires Court will aim to build on this success into the new year. With a strong reputation across junior categories, ranking tenth in the Victor Ludorum at the 2024 British Rowing Club Championships, they have shown themselves to be strong competitors for this race. Such achievements point towards a well-established coaching structure led by Alex Richardson and a development pathway that is clearly producing athletes capable of competing at the top end of the field. If they can harness the confidence and experience gained from last season, Claires Court may well be able to edge out their rivals and build on the growing legacy of their junior programme.
Honourable Mentions
Canford School Boat Club cannot be discounted either. With a history of success at major school and junior regattas, including a recent win in the mixed quad at Junior Fours Head, they have the raw talent within their squad to challenge the crews mentioned above. Another club that deserves attention are Barn Elms RC, who have a reputation for producing strong junior scullers, with particular proficiency in small boats.
Predictions
With so many strong crews entered, it is difficult to determine who will come away with the win. That being said, I believe Lady Eleanor Holles School have what it takes to come away with gold this weekend, closely followed by Nottinghamshire County Rowing Association.
