This category brings together some of the strongest schoolboy programmes in the country, showcasing depth, technical discipline, and the ability to transfer power efficiently through the boat. With several top crews entering multiple line-ups, this category provides a clear snapshot of which squads have maintained momentum following the early-season indicators at the Junior Fours Head.
Radley College
Radley field three crews in this category, with their top boat setting the pace at the front of the first division. Their entries here, alongside strong representation in the eights, highlight the depth and strength of their sweep programme. Earlier this year, their first eight reached the Henley Royal Regatta final, where Shiplake defeated them. That result will no doubt have sharpened the focus across the entire squad, not just those in the boat, so expect Radley’s crews to produce a committed and aggressive performance.
Reading Blue Coat School
Reading Blue Coat also bring two crews to this event. Their coxed four finished sixth at the recent Junior Fours Head, making them the highest-ranked coxed four in this field with a comparable result. With that form behind them, they should arrive with confidence and a clear target as they line up on race day.
Windsor Boys’ School
The Windsor Boys’ School are renowned for their exceptional sculling pedigree, having won The Fawley Challenge Cup at Henley Royal Regatta this year. A strong sculling foundation often translates well into sweep through technical precision and boat feel, so it will be interesting to see how they measure up against the traditionally sweep-dominated programmes in this event.
Notable Mentions
St Paul’s School must always be considered in any sweep event; they consistently produce high-performing crews and will be contenders here. Great Marlow School, who placed ninth at the Junior Fours Head, were not far behind the Reading Blue Coat four, so they will undoubtedly be aiming to close that gap down the course.
Prediction
Radley’s depth, combined with their Henley Royal Regatta pedigree and the motivation from last season’s near misses, makes them firm favourites for the win. Reading Blue Coat should be close behind, with their recent Junior Fours Head result placing them firmly in the medal conversation.
