Thursday Reviews
Newcastle University v University of San Diego, USA
The University of San Diego had a brilliant race to take out Oxford Brookes yesterday, but that exertion cost them this morning. Despite a blazing start, they were quickly overtaken by Newcastle University, who walked away to a commanding two-length lead by the Barrier. From that point onwards, there was never less than a length and a half between the two crews, and Newcastle looked calm and composed as they secured a place on the Saturday of Henley.
U.S.R Triton, NED v Edinburgh University
Having both safely navigated their first round, both crews locked in for a gripping first half. First advantage went to Triton, who eked out to a canvas lead that they held to the Barrier. However, Edinburgh appeared determined and, having settled into a commanding, punchy rhythm, were able to establish a length lead by Fawley. From that point on, there was no stopping Edinburgh, who extended their lead as they passed the applause from the Stewards enclosure, securing a two and a quarter length lead.
University of London ‘A’ v Harvard University, USA
This was a mouth-watering lineup between two crews who had entered the regatta with high expectations. Both crews were neck and neck off the start, with Harvard appearing to have a canvas advantage at the quarter mile. It was short-lived, however, as UL settled into their pace to lead by the Barrier. From there, it was only going one way, with London consistently rating higher than Harvard down the course. London put in a particularly strong push past the enclosures to finish open and three-quarter lengths up, and march on to Saturday’s semi-finals.
A.U.S.R Orca, NED v University of Bristol
With both crews seeded, this was fated to be a good race, but ultimately, the Dutch crew were unable to match Bristol’s dogged determination. Although Orca initially led off the start, it had been eroded by the quarter-mile post, with Bristol taking a one-length lead by Fawley. A very impressive performance from the boys in Burgundy, who will celebrate their first Saturday outing since 2021.
Saturday Previews
Newcastle University v Edinburgh University
Newcastle has looked very secure in each of their two races so far, but Edinburgh will be their toughest competition yet. Unlike their international competition from the quarter-finals, these crews will know each other, having already raced several times this season. Newcastle came out on top at BUCS, but Edinburgh more recently at Met Regatta. Time will tell who has stepped on the most in the past month. This should be a good matchup.
University of London ‘A’ v University of Bristol
The second all-domestic semifinal for the Prince Albert has a clearer favourite. Bristol has done fantastically well to make the Saturday, showing a strong base pace that helped them knock out Orca, but they haven’t beaten the University of London so far this season. The University of London has shown that they have a great turn of pace through the crucial middle section of the course, and I’d be surprised if that doesn’t get them through to the all-important Sunday final.
