Sunday, 30th November, sees Wallingford Head, one of the last head races of the year, stretched over a challenging 4000m course. With Hampton Head, the previous day, it is likely that numerous crews will be doubling up and using this as a training weekend to build endurance for the major head races next year. Despite a smaller draw of only six crews entered, these girls will all be determined to finish the year with a win!
St Edward’s School Boat Club
Following a successful fifth and seventh place finish at the first Junior Fours Head within this category, St Edward’s have solidified themselves as one of the front runners on Sunday. With clear squad depth, I am sure teddies will put out an impressive performance. Additionally, the squad has seen a remarkably successful few years, consistently reaching the A-finals at the National Schools’ Regatta, while also being finalists at Henley Women’s Regatta, demonstrating the high potential they have for Sunday!
Pangbourne College Boat Club
The developing girls’ squad at Pangbourne College is off the back of what was an impressive season, having qualified for Henley Royal Regatta for the first time in the Prince Phillip Challenge category. It is clear there is speed within the squad. Additionally, with Skyla Horton-Moran putting in a strong performance at the Caversham November GB trials, her addition to the crew is likely to be valuable, making Pangbourne a sure force to be reckoned with. As Pangbourne does not have another junior girls’ entry, this is likely to be their first boat, which makes me confident in their potential.
King’s School Worcester Boat Club
Similarly to Pangbourne, King’s Worcester are ones who have consistently climbed the ranks. Their coxless four finished in the A-final at NSR in 2024, a highly respectable achievement. More recently, their junior coxed four was one of the fastest non-qualifiers at Henley Women’s Regatta, a notable achievement for a growing rowing school, up against a vastly competitive field.
Maidstone Invicta Rowing Club
An uncommon competitor on the junior rowing circuit, Maidstone Invicta looks to break into the ranks of Junior 18 women at Wallingford. Missing the national entries and the competitive experience their competitors boast, this crew is a dark horse heading into Sunday. However, with a few local regatta successes and a lively senior program at the club, I have no doubt these girls will be well-drilled and execute a clean row.
Predictions
Overall, I believe the fight for gold will likely be between Teddies and Pangbourne. However, I will be intrigued as to whether the Teddies’ four is potentially a second boat to their junior eight entry, which may open up the field. Rounding out the podium, King’s Worcester look set for the bronze ahead of Maidstone Invicta
