JRN are delighted to announce that Alice Gelling of Headington School is our Cox of the Year.
During the 2024/25 season, Gelling was instrumental in steering Headington’s first eight to a series of titles. Their season started in Boston at the Head of the Charles, where Gelling took her crew, who started in 81st position, to sixth overall in women’s youth eights on the famously complex Charles course. She then steered the boat to victories at the Schools’ Head of the River, Henley Women’s Regatta and Henley Royal Regatta, retaining all three titles from 2024 in typically impressive style. She then concluded her season by winning gold at the Home International Rowing Regatta for England in the women’s eight.
Ryan Demaine, Director of Sport at Headington School, said: “Alice first showed her ability to read a race effectively at the Head of the Charles, with bow number 81 out of 90. This was not going to be easy, but she effectively read the field well, overtaking numerous crews to place her crew sixth overall. She has been a steadfast leader in the boat, taking on the role of Captain of Boats for the upcoming 2025-2026 season. The season has, of course, not been straightforward. However, having someone who is on a level with the rowers yet not afraid to lead with purpose has been instrumental in the season’s success. Alice still has another year, and I have no doubt that she will continue to progress – she is driven, but more importantly, she can get the most out of those around her.”
