Thursday Reviews
G.S.R Aegir, NED v Oxford University
No stranger to high-pressure race starts, the crew from Oxford shot out of the blocks to establish an early lead ahead of Aegir by the end of the island. The crews maintained close contact for much of the course; however, the dark blues absorbed any challenges from Aegir. The Dutch appeared to run out of steam at the mile, and Oxford finally established clear water and won the race by a one and three quarters of a length margin.
Rutgers University ‘A’ v University of London ‘A’
This race was an excellent showing of two very different styles of rowing. From the start, Rutgers looked scrappy with questionable steering next to a tidy UL unit. However, the aggressive American style began to overpower the London crew at the barrier. The Scarlet Knights maintained a high rating down the course and neutralised any threat from the purple palace, progressing to Friday by a two-length margin.
University of Bristol v Princeton University, USA
This was an incredible performance from the Bristol women, whose women’s squad continues to develop strength and depth. Off the start, the crews were level to the quarter mile. The Princeton Tigers crept out to take an early lead; however, Bristol did not relent and continued to threaten the Americans down the course. Some ropey steering from both crews added to the drama in front of the enclosures, but Princeton came out on top by one-third of a length and booked their ticket to Henley Friday.
Friday Previews
Rutgers University v D.S.R. Laga
Having made a statement with their powerful racing style, the Scarlet Knights have truly embraced the Henley duel and will be ready to take the fight to Laga on Friday. This will be another exhibition of the technical differences between the aggressive American and delicate Dutch styles. Both of these crews have performed well so far; however, Rutgers looks to have come up against a more formidable opponent on Thursday. The Americans appear to have more speed on timings, so I would place them as favourites for a comfortable Friday win.
Princeton University v Durham University ‘A’
Durham University and Princeton had tough races to win their Friday racing ticket. Although the Americans are currently unbeaten this season, I believe they may meet their match up against this palatinate crew. Durham’s faster times to the barrier and fawley on Thursday reflect this crew’s power advantage over its lightweight Princeton competitors. Given this significant advantage, I suspect that Durham University will come out on top tomorrow.
Newcastle University ‘A’ v Oxford University
As one of the favourites to win the entire event, I would place Newcastle as most likely to come out on top in this race. During Thursday’s racing, Newcastle had an easier run down the track and still beat Oxford on times to the barrier and Fawley. The Blue Star also has the added advantage of fresher legs, as they could wind down significantly for the rest of their run down the course today. Although Oxford have significant match racing experience, I don’t think this will be enough to overturn this strong Newcastle crew on Friday.
