Kingston Small Boats Head offers a chance for crews to test their fitness over a gruelling 5200m course in the opening stages of this new season. The junior women’s events are packed, and the aspirational conditions suggest that this race will be a promising indicator of crews’ abilities at this early point in the head season.
Women’s Junior 18 Singles
In the junior women’s single category, Emily Nicholas from Sir William Perkins School will be a force to be reckoned with, fresh from her second appearance at the U19 World Rowing Championships in the double sculls last summer. Tideway Scullers School, with a well-established history of producing incredibly proficient and strong single scullers, will also be vying for the top spots. Shiplake College, coming off a stellar season last year, entailing a National Schools’ Regatta win and Henley Royal Regatta final under their belt, will be keen to translate their sweep success to sculling at this race.
Women’s Junior 15 Doubles
In the Junior 15 doubles category, Wimbledon High School stands out with an impressive four boats entered, and I expect them to be a dominant force in this category. Other clubs, like Tideway Scullers and Sir William Perkins, will bring further strength to the field. With numerous clubs participating, this race promises to be an exciting start to the year.
Women’s Junior 18 Doubles
Set to be another competitive event with 20 entries, the junior women’s double category promises a thrilling contest between the top schoolgirl programmes in the country. I expect Shiplake College and Sir William Perkins to bring experience to the field, building on successful seasons last year, but with so much talent in this category, this could be one of the most competitive races of the day.
Women’s Junior 14 Quads
For many of these young rowers, this race will be their first time competing, making the event both exciting and daunting. Both Surbiton and Lady Eleanor Holles have entered multiple boats, showcasing depth and strength, and will no doubt bring about internal competition. However, at this early stage in the season, the race is genuinely open, and I look forward to seeing how these young rowers face their first race.
Women’s Junior 16 Quads
Molesey Boat Club, Kingston Grammar School, and Surbiton, racing on home water, will bring valuable knowledge and experience to the 5200m course, and may give them a crucial edge. However, emerging clubs like Barn Elms and Walton often punch above their weight, especially in junior women’s sculling, promising tight and exciting competition. Nonetheless, I expect Surbiton, with three crews entered in this category, to demonstrate incredible depth in their squad and take the win.
