Image Credit: https://www.flickr.com/people/136184247@N04/
The 2025 Race Roei Regatta, held outside Rotterdam at the Willem Alexander Baan (WAB), will be the qualification event for Dutch crews aiming to race at the FISU Championships. For many crews, this will be their first 2km race in the combinations they are developing for Henley Royal Regatta. The WAB is renowned for wind and rough water, and this weekend seems no different, as crews expect a light headwind.
Nereus have entered an almost identical boat to the one that won last year. Stijn Smoes has joined the crew, and the seating order has been slightly adjusted, but Nereus appear to have a clear idea of what they need in the coxless four. This crew is their second boat and will undoubtedly be fast, with two of the athletes having finished on the podium at this year’s NK-Klein. They are on track for The Prince Albert or Visitors’ Challenge Cup at this year’s Henley Royal Regatta, so they will likely be a returning crew.
Vidar are now racing their Varsity senior four in a coxless setup. These are the strongest athletes from the Tilburg-based club. After a successful season in the development category last year, they aim to compete with the top crews in the country. They’ll also be racing at the national championships next weekend, so will be keen to see how they perform one week out.
Njord have not carried over their senior four to this event, but do have an ex-lightweight athlete at stroke. The boat is packed with experience, as several rowers raced in the pair at NK-Klein. Nevertheless, this is the first time we see this combination together as they begin their journey toward Henley Royal Regatta.
Prediction
After showing so much promise in smaller boats at NK-Klein and following strong performances last year, Nereus must be considered the favourites to win this weekend. Njord and Vidar could be very close behind, but Njord might have the edge thanks to their slightly greater experience.
