Author Archive: Chris Best

Felix Awards 2026

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Recently, Stratford upon Avon Boat Club took time out to recognize ‘Personalities of the Year’: these are awards voted on by all the coaches and committee members of the Club. The pots for the awards were donated by Felix Badcock’s (a past President) wife Jane from the vast collection that Felix had amassed over many years of competitive rowing which give the awards special provenance and significance.

The Junior Felix Award was presented to Reuben Stanford, a J15 squad athlete. His award was given for his ongoing helpfulness and willingness to assist at all times. The Senior Felix Award for 2026 was awarded to Gina Fusco. Gina is currently the Women’s Vice Captain and has galvanised the squad into a force to be reckoned with at regional regattas and heads.

Commenting, Dawson Curnock, Chairman of Stratford Boat Club said, “Stratford Boat Club is built on the ethos of volunteering and Gina and Reuben exemplify this in bucket loads.”

For media coverage, see Stratford Observer page five https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/09/04&pages=32#page/4

Stratford Take The Honours at City of Oxford Regatta

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On Saturday, Thomas Doherty and Rebecca England represented Stratford in the mixed masters CDE double sculls at City of Oxford Regatta. For their first race, they faced Swindon, a fellow D crew, in the semi-final and enjoyed a comfortable win over the 1000m course. A harder task awaited in the final where they came up against Abingdon. Being older, Abingdon had the advantage of a head start which allowed them to negate the disadvantage of their bend. Even though Stratford had a fast start and a good row, they were unable to row down the deficit on this occasion, coming second out of the six starting crews.

Stratford’s adaptive section visited Oxford Sprint regatta in force on Sunday aiming to take the cup for the best performing Adaptive team. This they duly did comfortably, winning six of the nine events they competed in.

Star of the show for Stratford was the fourteen year old Tristan Caudle-Stephens. He won both his singles and doubles events. In his single, he sculled beautifully against his City of Oxford opponent who had won two weeks early at Maidenhead, winning by three lengths. In the double there was a close fight between Guildford and Tristan and Neville Hand. Technique ultimately told for another three length Stratford win. These were Tristan’s first ever event victories.

Stratford Boat Club’s adaptive squad other fourteen year old athlete Lance Fowler also won a singles event, defeating his Marlow opponent in the final by the ubiquitous three length margin.

Stratford’s James Bastin, who has multiple disabilities, raced with his former Stratford adaptive rower colleague Andy Morris, now at Stourport, and they were drawn against Oxford in his straight final. Another epic fight resulted in a narrow and popular win for James.

The Wards mother/son combo completed a good regatta season against old rivals from the City of Oxford: a tight race ended with Stratford less than a length in front. Also, Ricky Clutterbuck, after suffering disappointment in his single, combined with Andy Morris to defeat another City of Oxford double by a convincing five lengths.

There were final defeats for Edward Owen-Smith in a double, Ricky in his single and for Christiane and Helen Helliwell’s double. All learnt from the experience.

Edward Owen-Smith also competed in the J15 mainstream singles event as there was no one fast enough to compete against him in the adaptive events and no J14 event. He was a little outgunned and lost his semi-final.

Jake Blatcher got through a tough semi-final in the Open Singles. His final opponent from Falcon proved a tougher nut: Falcon took an early lead but Jake was forcing his way back until he made a mistake. This sealed his fate and Falcon went on to win by just under two lengths.

Mark Dewdney, Stratford’s Head Adaptive Coach commented, “The Victor Ludorum Cup and to honour an adaptive rowing pioneer Andy Weekes who died in February, was our target. All who raced and helped, contributed to Stratford’s adaptive squad taking the honours. City of Oxford regatta completes the adaptive squad’s regatta season. Our next major target is the British Indoor Rowing Championships which this year combined with the Worlds in early December.”

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page thirty nine.

Stratford Triumph at Stourport and Peterborough

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Stratford upon Avon Boat Club enjoyed a strong day of racing at Stourport Regatta on Saturday 15 August, with crews competing across junior and masters events on the 1000m course.

The morning saw two Stratford women’s  junior double sculls take to the water. The crew of Alexandra Francis and Millie Smith crew raced in the semi-final against Hereford Rowing Club, while Poppy Baines and Martha Baines faced Worcester Rowing Club in the other semi-final. Both Stratford crews were narrowly denied places in the final, with Hereford and Worcester progressing to the final, which was subsequently won by the Hereford crew.  There was further morning action for Seth Vondrak, racing in the Open J18 single sculls final against Monmouth Rowing Club with Monmouth the victor.

The afternoon brought even more Stratford representation. The crew of Ollie Rowlands, James Albrighton, Theo Richter and Seth Vondrak competed in the senior event for Open coxless quadruple sculls semi-final against Worcester. Both crews were unable to progress to their respective finals.  The afternoon’s racing continued with Poppy Baines, Martha Baines, Millie Smith and Isla Dunn producing an excellent performance in the Women’s Junior coxless quadruple scull semi-final against Stourport Boat Club to earn a place in the final. They then returned to the water later in the afternoon to take on Hereford Rowing Club and secured victory in the final.  There was further success for Alexandra Francis in the Women’s Junior single scull.  After defeating Worcester Rowing Club in the semi-final, Alexandra progressed to the final and completed the job by beating another Worcester crew to claim the event.

With two wins from the afternoon finals, Stratford upon Avon Boat Club finished the regatta on a high. Commenting, Steve Wellstead, J17/18 Coach and Junior Coordinator, said, “The results demonstrated the depth of racing across the Club, with junior, senior and masters crews all gaining valuable competitive experience and two Stratford crews progressing through the heats to deliver excellent performances when it mattered most.”

Corinna Burger and Helen Helliwell lined up for the Women’s Masters D2x semi-final against Warwick at Stourport. Conditions were hot with a slight headwind. A tricky start from the Stratford crew put Warwick ahead from the beginning but once they got into their rhythm they began chasing them down. Unfortunately, even with a final push, the duo couldn’t make up the gap and crossed the line in second place. It wasn’t the result the wanted but had good pieces to develop from.

Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s Masters squad also competed at Peterborough Summer Regatta over the weekend The build up to this year’s Peterborough regatta started from many weeks before the event with Stratford crews as well prepared as they could be to tackle the 1,000 metre purpose built course. From the purchase of the new ladies’ VIII for the Club and the addition of Polydor the heavyweight 2x making it possible to enter into more races, the squad were set for a full on day of racing with a minimum of two races each from the twelve participants.

Caroline Collins, Charlotte Jones, Abby Symons and Jane Cryer had bravely entered the open w4-. Ellie Davis and Gina Fusco the W Masters E 2x event and Rebecca England and Suzie Radley England the W Masters C 2x event. This was also the line up for the VIII which would be the last event of the day for the ladies Masters. Tom Doherty, David Noyes, Dan Simkins and Pete Spivey made up a Men’s Masters E 4x and they split into the two double scull events with Tom and Pete entering in Masters F and Dan and David in Masters E.

Racing was spread out throughout the day and there was never a dull moment in proceedings but just enough time to recover between races and give our best efforts for the club. The weather had a gusty headwind in the morning followed by a humid and warm afternoon of racing.

Beginning the racing for Stratford were Suzie Radley and Rebecca England in the Women’s Masters C 2x. After a comfortable row to win their heat, they lined up for the final amidst gusty conditions. In a fairly exposed lane, they faced some steering challenges but finished a respectable second out of the seven crews behind very strong opposition from Peterborough City.

Ellie Davies and Gina Fusco rowing in the Women’s Masters E 2x were excited to race at Peterborough for the first time. Despite gusty conditions which made for a slightly zigzagging row, they successfully got through the semi-final and into the final. They came third out of five competitors overall but felt they gave a good performance against very strong opposition from Burton Leander and the winners Peterborough.

Stratford Boat Club women’s masters Charlotte Jones (stroke) Abby Symons, Jane Cryer, Caroline Collins (bow) raced in their coxless IV for the second time this regatta season and a lack of competition in their age category meant they had to row in the open category against younger crews from Chesterton, Globe and home crew Peterborough. Executing a clean and effective start, the crew settled into a good rhythm rating thirty two strokes per minute. Despite the challenges of steering in the strong gusty side-wind the crew managed to stay in their lane and gave a strong performance but were beaten by the younger crews. Caroline Collins, steering at bow said, “We are very pleased with performance and we are taking away great learning points about how to race in windy conditions.”

The Masters Men first race was Masters E quad. Pete Spivey (stroke) David Noyes, Dan Simkins and Thomas Doherty (bow) took to lane three in a straight final against three other crews with one younger Newark crew who had a time penalty. Gusty conditions meant that all crews including Stratford were finding rowing in their lanes challenging. By 250 metres, the Stratford crew had overtaken North Stafford and were bearing down on Bewl Bridge who were by now three quarters of a length ahead. Despite one of the Stratford crew catching a crab, they quickly regained momentum and speed. At 600 metres, the Stratford quad overtook Bewl Bridge and crossed the line winning first by a few lengths with a time was 3:58, a strong performance in the gusty conditions.

In the afternoon division the men began their doubles races. First up were Tom Doherty and Pete Spivey in the Men’s 2x Masters F/G in their first race together as a double. The semifinal presented a competitive field of Broxbourne, Doncaster and Peterborough City. Cautious off the start, by 500 metres, the Stratford crew had found a pace that matched the strong Broxbourne crew beside them and made it through to the final coming in just behind Broxbourne. Going into the final, the duo knew that it would be tough race against  Burton Leander, Sudbury and Broxbourne. The Stratford crew got a fast start hitting forty one strokes per minute and maintaining 34 from 100m to 500m by which point they were a length up on Broxbourne, half a length down on Burton Leander and cruising past Sudbury who had already lost their nine second head start. The Stratford team had to adjust course slightly which reduced their speed and Burton Leander pulled away. The battle continued and the Stratford crew raised the rate up to thirty six strokes per minute in the last 100 metres, giving it everything. They achieved a fast time and well-deserved second place only five seconds behind Burton Leander and half a length ahead of Broxbourne.

The second of the men’s doubles Masters E Dan Simkins and David Noyes went into the semi final determined to make the final which they did easily taking the win in their semi final. The final against Bewl Bridge, North Stafford and City of Cambridge began well for the duo, a composed start and into a good powerful rhythm which put them in a strong position in the race. Unfortunately, the Stratford crew caught a number of buoys down the course, as so many other crews had that day, which meant they finished several lengths behind Bewl Bridge but still achieved second place.

The late afternoon brought calmer conditions for the women as they came together to form a women masters E VIII crew Coxed by Rachel Evans, Ellie Davis (stroke) Gina Fusco, Rebecca England, Suzie Radley, Jane Cryer, Abby Symons, Charlotte Jones and Caroline Collins (bow). Racing a straight final against Chesterton and a Star/Milton Keynes composite. After waiting the nine seconds head start for the older composite crew, the Stratford women had a decisive and strong start taking the lead over Chesterton. The steady rhythm set by stroke giving powerful stroke length together with excellent coxing spurring them on, the Stratford crew closed the gap and rowed through the Star/Milton Keynes composite by the 500 metre point and were then able to consolidate a clear lead of ten seconds ahead by the finish. Abby Symons commented, “it’s great to bring home another decisive win for Stratford Boat Club in our new boat and to have executed our race plan to bring home another winner’s pot.”

At the end of the day Tom Doherty said, “Today was all rowing should be about; friendship, camaraderie, laughs and excellent and successful racing by everyone. Thanks so much to Dan for towing which made it all happen. Well done everyone, looking forward to many more days like this.”

For media coverage, see Stratford Observer back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/08/21&pages=32#page/30 and online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-club-celebrate-wins-at-stourport-and-peterborough also Stratford Observer page forty two and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/strong-showing-from-stratford-crews-at-stourport-regatta-9479006 and https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/new-boats-helps-to-bring-decisive-victory-for-masters-squad-9479004

For more great pictures of Stourport regatta, see Stuart Baines’ excellent selection https://onedrive.live.com/?id=%2Fpersonal%2F3dd8f6a70c0cb625%2FDocuments%2FPictures%2FStourport%20Regatta%202026&listurl=%2Fpersonal%2F3dd8f6a70c0cb625%2FDocuments&ithint=folder&e=A0DZtO&migratedtospo=true&redeem=aHR0cHM6Ly8xZHJ2Lm1zL2YvYy8zZGQ4ZjZhNzBjMGNiNjI1L0lnQVZIRXVLSnlMaFFLV1A2NXJ0TUJZZ0FVZHdmcERQaVM3Y3Y2Q3A0ejFvZmJBP2U9QTBEWnRP&ga=1

All in the Family!

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Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s adaptive section and some senior rowers competed at Maidenhead Regatta on Saturday. Sadly, only two Stratford adaptive crews ended up competing, both made up of a mother and one of their children. Both crews were successful and won their events. A third crew was unable to get to the event due to a rail strike.

The final of the Women’s Supported Double was between the mother and daughter double of Helen and Christiane Helliwell and an experienced Marlow crew with this being Christiane’s first proper competitive event. The Helliwell double consistently pulled away from their opponents throughout the 500m course and won by a convincing five lengths.

The final of another Supported Double event was between the mother and son combo of Paola and Ian Ward and a Guildford crew. Ian had been unwell during the week but despite this, the Wards turned out to be much the stronger crew and won easily.

Jake Blatcher competed in the top band of the Open Singles: he had won two similar events in July but this was not to be his day. Coming up against a strong Reading sculler in the quarter-final, it was nip and tuck the whole way with the Reading man getting his nose in front near the end to win by a canvas.

Jake then doubled up with Helen Helliwell in the Mixed Doubles event. The other crews were young and also very good. The Stratford crew came up against a fast Burway boat in the semi-final and were well beaten. Adaptive Head Coach Mark Dewdney commented, “We were pleased with how the adaptive races went. In the mainstream events, Jake made a few mistakes but he has had a very good season. Our Mixed Double was out-gunned on the day so many lessons learned.”

For media coverage see Stratford Herald page forty four and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/five-length-triumph-for-stratford-adaptive-rowers-9478394 and also Stratford Observer online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-family-pairs-triumph-for-stratford-boat-clubs-adaptive-squad-at-maidenhead and back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/08/14&pages=32#page/30

Stratford Visitors to Henley Town Triumph

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Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s J17/18 squad delivered a strong and determined showing at the Henley Town & Visitors’ Regatta, an event with roots stretching back to the late 1850s, with several athletes stepping up impressively across multiple races.

In the Open Mixed Double Sculls, Alexandra Francis and Seth Vondrak made a composed debut as a new pairing. Despite facing a far more experienced Warwick crew preparing for the World Masters, they settled quickly, held their pace through the middle of the course and mounted a determined push towards the line. Stratford were narrowly beaten by a third of a length but it was an encouraging first outing for the duo.

Francis returned to the water shortly afterwards, joining her WJ18 4x teammates for their final against Reading. The race quickly became a test of resolve with Reading taking an early lead but Stratford refusing to let the contest slip away. They pressed hard all the way down the course, showing real grit and earning warm praise from the event commentators even though Reading held on for the win.

Vondrak also stepped up again, this time into Band 1 Open Singles, punching well above his Junior 18 status. For an 18‑year‑old, reaching Band 1 is a notable achievement, reflecting the racing points he has already accumulated and placing him directly against some of the regatta’s fastest single scullers. He rose to the challenge with a composed and determined row, giving everything he had against older and more experienced opponents to finish third in the final, another strong marker of his growing potential.

Concluding Stratford’s day were James Albrighton and Ollie Rowlands in the J18 Open Double Sculls. They made a sharp, confident start in their final against Reading Rowing Club, pushing out strongly from the line: however, that early pace proved difficult to sustain over the full course and Reading were able to move ahead. Albrighton and Rowlands continued to fight all the way to the finish but Reading held their advantage to take the win. It remained a committed and promising row from the Stratford double.

Commenting, Colin Bell, J17/18 Coach said, “Taken together, the performances across the day highlighted the growing strength, determination and competitive spirit within Stratford’s J17/18 squad.”

Stratford’s J16 squad were represented by Ed Appleton and Will Shaw in the single sculling competition and Erin Appleton and Immie De Pennington in the double sculls. First up, the boys were pitted against a sculler from Wallingford. Racing three lanes as a straight Band 1 final, all three had quick starts but Will Shaw maintained a higher rating and carved out a lead which he held to win by two and a half lengths over Wallingford with Ed Appleton just a length back and closing the gap, with his superior technique making up for what he gave away in height. Another fifty metres could have seen a Stratford placed one and two!

Stratford’s J16 girls were drawn centre lane in the three way Band 1 final and were up against City of Oxford and Shiplake School. Appleton and De Pennington, who have been working hard on their starts, set off at forty four strokes a minute and took an early lead. Settling into their rhythm and with very tidy sculling, they stamped their authority on the race, extending the lead to win by four lengths over City of Oxford. Commenting on the J16’s performance, Coach Eric Appleton said, “A fantastic brace of winning medals in what is likely to be the last race for the J16’s this regatta season!”

With a reduced entry due to holidays and no opposition for Stratford’s J14 squad, the girls’ 2x a compact squad of a boys’ 2x crewed by Ethan Siwakowski and Archie Mansfield were in a straight final and a boys’ 1x Christopher Durance in an initial semi-final boated in excellent water & weather conditions.

The boys in the 2x had a great race up the course keeping to the race plan and bringing what they had been working on to their row and achieving a credible third place with all three crews showing some skilled sculling.

The 1x had a great start and kept ahead for the majority of the race until about 100 metres from the finish and then had two unfortunate meetings with some river furniture but picked everything back up to just miss out going through to the final in second place.

Commenting, Dawson Curnock, J14 Coach said, “For all three boys, more experience of side-by-side racing at another prestigious event and representing themselves and the Club admirably: onwards boys!”

Also competing at Henley Town & Visitors’ Regatta were Stratford’s Masters Women: first to to row were Ellie Davies and Gina Fusco competing in Women’s Masters’ E 2x. Unfortunately, the double had a shaky start and failing to get into their usual rhythm plus clashing with a buoy meant the double lost their semifinal so no medal this time.

Plagued by an injury-strewn summer which limited their training capacity, Rebecca England and Lucy Scarlett were finally able to come back together to race in the Women’s Master’s A double sculls. Facing strong opposition from Vesta, the Stratford duo rowed well together in the swell and maintained a good rhythm but unfortunately were beaten to the finish line on this occasion.

Last event of the day for Women’s Masters but the first race in the new VIII was a phenomenal success for our Women’s Masters on the iconic Henley course in beautiful conditions. Rowing in Women’s VIII Senior Band and vying for The Sagamore Challenge Cup, the crew of Ellie Davis (stroke), Gina Fusco, Rebecca England, Ruth Poulten, Charlotte Jones, Abby Symons, Caroline Collins, Claudine Pearson (bow) and Jen Cary (cox) had a relaxed and powerful start at rate thirty six strokes per minute before settling and focusing on technique.

Jen steered a confident line down the 800m enabling the crew to apply their power and set the pace against a determined composite Guildford/Walton opposition and a Milton Keynes boat who struggled to keep up. Ellie stroked a superb race which helped the crew to a comfortable two length victory and in a boat which made a decisive difference. Coach Sam Hill said, “I’m so proud of the crew and absolutely delighted that all their hard work on and off the water has paid off. This memorable win is extremely well deserved and testament to their dedication.”

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page forty four and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/stratford-juniors-impress-at-henley-regatta-9477387 also Stratford Observer online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-club-junior-and-masters-scullers-triumph-at-henley-town-and-visitors-regatta and back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/08/07&pages=32#page/32

Stratford’s Juniors Excel at Junior National Championships and Masters Conquer at Bewdley

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The weekend saw the British Rowing Club Championships in Nottingham with Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s juniors out in force. Held on the 2000m lake at the National Water Sports Centre, the event brings together clubs and schools from across the country over a four day period.

First to race were the J17/J18 squad. J18 single scullers Xavier Sissins-Roffey and Seth Vondrak boated first, however were unable to progress beyond the Time Trial stage. Next to go were the WJ18 double sculls of Millie Smith and Maeve Dunn plus Martha Baines and Poppy Baines. Following the time trial, the Baines sisters progressed to the E Final where they battled their way through from sixth to cross the line in third place. Moving into the second day of the regatta, the J18 boys raced again in the coxless pair. Their time trial performance earned them a place in the semi-finals where they progressed to the B-Final and a fifth place finish. In the WJ18 single sculls, Alexandra Francis recorded eleventh place in the time trial and moved forward to the semi-finals to win a place in the B-Final and sixth place overall.

Blessed with hot weather and mild winds, the following Stratford J16 crews took to the Holme Pierrepoint water on Friday: Maria Ntoukaki and Imogen de Pennington in the WJ16 1x time trial. Maria, still somewhat under the weather a D category struggled to reach a higher stroke rate, recorded a 6:36.2 time over the 1,500m (thirty second out of fifty four competitors) whilst Imogen posted a fabulous 6:13.5 (third place) which put her into the semi final AB2 around at noon, in which she came second, thereby qualifying for the A final. Maria came fifth in her F final, a really good row in the circumstances. Imogen finished sixth in a 8:30.7 time, five seconds faster than her semifinal time. Commenting, Hugo Happel, J16 Coach said, “Credit to both girls who showed grit, determination and dare in their finals.”

On Saturday, Ed Appleton sculled really well in his time trial, recording a 6:11.9 time, against seventy other 16 year old men. Sadly Ed’s great technique did not land him a final. On Sunday, it was the turn of the coxless quads, first up Seb Happel, Euan Richter, Will Shaw and Ed Appleton, followed by Orla Linforth, Imogen de Pennington, Maria Ntoukaki and Erin Appleton. Both crews sculled very well indeed and made their way into a C final later in the day. The boys’ quad came sixth in 7:15.9 and the girls came third in 7:33.4. Commenting further, coach Hugo Happel said, “Overall, a fantastic display of good technique and attitude, a credit to the Club and all came away with numerous learning points as well additional experience. Joint Coach Eric Appleton and I felt very proud of them all.”

Six of Stratford Boat Club’s J15 rowers represented the club in small boats at the Junior National Championships. In the single sculls category, Reuben Stanford finished forty eighth out of seventy six competitors, thirty three seconds behind the fastest time, while Abi Dunn rowed to forty nineth pace out of seventy six competitors, thirty sixth seconds off of first place.

In the double sculls, Bethany Hammond and Raya Hothi placed in fifty fifth places (eleven seconds off a place in the final) with fellow crew of Meredith Paul and Lily Parsons placed sixtieth (fourteen seconds off a place in the final), in a field of sixty seven competitors.

Commenting, Dave Parkin, J15 Coach said, “Although none of the J15 crews were in the top thirty six places to progress to the finals, all six athletes delivered solid performances in strongly contested races and should be proud of their achievements at a national level event.”

The J14 squad was represented at the Championships by Ethan Siwakowski (OJ14 1x), Mary Heenan (WJ14 1x). Both had great time trials given the level of competition and moved forward to F & D Finals respectively where both put in outstanding performances in their finals to finish in second place, one and a half seconds off first and fourth place respectively. Great results from the work put in over the last month especially.

Christopher Durance and Arthur Burt (OJ14 2x) and Islay Milles and Amelia Cruickshank (WJ14 2x) both had great time trails as their earlier squad members did to round off the initial rounds of the event. Chris and Arthur moved forward to their D Final with Islay and Amelia progressing to a sixth place overall in the time trials and semifinals where they also finished sixth  overall and into the A Final. In their final, Chris and Arthur had a great row which improved their seeded position to fifth, again proving that all the hard work that they have put in over the last few weeks.

Islay and Amelia had a tricky start to their A Final which was the last race of the event and had a great race from that point on to finish fourth, two seconds off the bronze medal improving their seeding by two places.

Commenting, Dawson Curnock, J14 Coach said, “Overall, a superb day for the squad with everyone making finals and all the athletes coming away with individual wins and learnings to take away into training and the next event. As a coach, I saw a great effort from everyone, not forgetting the parents that carried boats and blades throughout the day, their support is really appreciated!”

Stratford’s Masters’ squad were also in action at Bewdley Regatta: in the morning division, a composite crew of Ann Jewell from Gloucester Rowing Club, Eva Rankin from Loch Lomond Rowing Club and Claudine Pearson and Kjersti Rogneflaten Woolley from Stratford Boat Club had entered as WMasG4x drawn against an experienced Bewley women’s crew. After a good start, the crew unfortunately hit an underwater object and had to stop to recover a blade. To complete the race, they had a good row with excellent steering from Claudine, her first in a competition as bow.

In the afternoon division, Eva Rankin and Kjersti Rogneflaten Woolley raced WMasG2x against an experienced double from Evesham Rowing Club in the semifinal. After a good start and some steering challenges in the wind, they worked hard to just beat Evesham by half a length. In the final, the crew were up against a Loughborough. The Stratford double rowed well and won comfortably. Kjersti commented saying, “An amazing day that showed what masters women can do when they just want to race!”

Corinna Burger and Helen Helliwell had a strong day in their double. In their first race, a semifinal against a Hereford crew, there was some pre-race anticipation and worries about steering but once racing, they settled quickly, held a steady pace and raced with great will to take the win. The final was against tough competition: knowing the plan, they put down a confident, well-steered piece with good rhythm but just came up short on the day. Overall, a really positive outing with solid steering experience to build on for future races.

In one of her first races in a single, Rebecca England competed in the afternoon division at Bewdley regatta against Ironbridge. Despite being greeted at the start with the first rain of the summer, England settled into a good rhythm and, for the most part, managed to stay away from the bushes and shallows on the course. This allowed her to steadily pull away from her opponent and take the win. Speaking afterwards, Rebecca said, “I really enjoyed being in a 1x even though the steering was quite stressful!”

Ellie Davies and Gina Fusco raced Women’s Masters E 2x in a late afternoon with a straight final against Monmouth. A strong start enabled the Stratford crew to get into the lead which they extended over the course to take the win.

Jake Blatcher competed in Open singles in one of the first races of the day: this quarter final was against a Worcester sculler who Jake had beaten in Cardiff recently. The result was identical, a Jake win by four lengths. The semifinal was competitive for half the course before Jake’s technique began to tell with Jake going on to win convincingly. In the final, Jake was always a little faster than his Birmingham opponent: that and his superior steering resulted in a comfortable win by three lengths. A great day of racing by Jake with a well earned medal at the end of it: this was Jake’s second regatta win in a couple of weeks.

Patrick Taylor and Dan Simkins competed in the double scull and the pair categories, enjoying a great day of racing with fellow Masters rowers. They finished second in both events, missing out on the medals on this occasion.

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page thirty seven and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/stratford-juniors-show-their-potential-at-national-champions-9475966 and also Stratford Observer back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/07/31&pages=32#page/32

For more great pictures of British Rowing Club Championships, see Stuart Baines’ great selection https://1drv.ms/f/c/3dd8f6a70c0cb625/IgAeHLJNQmY6QpAR9zkwCOjDAb4Hf4lMesvxfl-1T4V1rXA

Stratford Masters & Adaptives Score at Burton, Henley & Llandaff

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Rebecca England and Thomas Doherty represented Stratford upon Avon Boat Club at Burton Regatta on Saturday. Racing in the mixed masters D/E double sculls, they faced an older Loughborough crew who consequently had a head start. The 1.1km course included several tricky bends which had got the better of many a crew in the morning division. However, after a fast start and some hard steering around the first corner, the Stratford 2x caught and overtook their opponents. Maintaining a good length through the straight and into the long, final bend, England and Doherty were able to extend their lead, taking victory by five lengths. 

Later in the weekend, Stratford Women’s Masters joined forces with Bewdley Rowing Club to row as a composite eight at the prestigious Henley Masters Regatta. A clear win of one and a quarter lengths over the 1km course on Saturday against Champions of the Thames (Cambridge) took the crew through to the semi-final on Sunday. Despite the rising temperatures, the crews were well matched for the first half of the race but Wallingford composite pulled away, winning by one and three quarter lengths, going on to win the whole event for Masters F category. The Stratford crew comprised Jane Cryer (4), Abby Symonds (3), Caroline Collins (2) and Gina Fusco (Bow). Commenting Jane Cryer said, “It was such a privilege and joy to row on the Henley Royal Regatta course and under such beautiful conditions. We gave two very gutsy rows and are really pleased with our results and especially how collaborative the sport of rowing is when two clubs come together to race.”

Stratford’s adaptive squad also competed over the weekend at Llandaff with a good row from Gillian Middleton despite the wind.

Commenting on the day, parent Chris Owen-Smith said, “Thank you Mark for all the coaching, driving, organising, rigging, de-rigging and everything else you do for us. A great day today and well done to everyone there. What a fabulous team effort! The chairman of Llandaff Rowing Club approached Edward at the end of the regatta and awarded him a medal for his effort after hearing about it being his first J14 mainstream event and coming so close to winning it. They are such a welcoming club and the regatta has a brilliant atmosphere!”

Commenting further on the day’s racing, Mark Dewdney, Stratford’s Head Adaptive Coach said, “The athlete who beat Edward won his later final easily: he is winning regularly so Edward is still very competitive in the mainstream able bodied category.”

Stratford’s Jake Blatcher also won Men’s 1x category and Paola and Ian Ward v Josh & Ethan were in an all Stratford epic. The Stratford mother and son combo won by half a length.

Edward Owen-Smith in his first mainstream J14 event missed a stroke near finish and opposition took advantage to win by a few feet even though Edward was in lead 20m from finish.

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/duo-are-victorious-after-success-for-stratford-pair-at-burto-9475051 and page fifty three

All Fun At The Fun Regatta!

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Although the wait of a year seemed a long time, all the expectations of the Fun Regatta were met and even bettered! The Fun Regatta attracted competitors from local companies, villages and groups of friends and nineteen crews with just three hours’ training produced some quality rowing, ably coxed by skilled members of Stratford Boat Club’s junior squad and watched by crowds and friends from the Club’s grounds, the Bancroft Gardens and the Rec. Fun Regatta organiser Adam Franklin said, “We were heartened by the huge numbers who came to watch, cheer the competitors on and enjoy the spectacle even though the weather was hotter than ideal: it may not have been Henley Royal Regatta but we like to think that it was more fun to watch!”

Fancy dress was again a major part of the day, with crews dressed in multi coloured outfits: first place in the Fancy Dress competition were Boudicca’s Babes, second were The John Macenrows and third were Oar Blimey. The winners for the rowing regatta itself were Meander Club by just one foot over The River Rangers

Commenting further, Adam Franklin added, “Through the hard work and all the efforts of Club members, we have been able to raise funds for replacing equipment, repairs and maintenance. As always, we are especially grateful for the tolerance of those who make their living on the river and to our sponsor Crowne Plaza Stratford.”

Dawson Curnock, Boat Club Chairman also commented, “The wait was worth it! A fun day was had by all and Stratford Boat Club was happy to contribute to the vitality and atmosphere of the town and give visitors and residents a cause for celebration! We were so grateful that Stratford upon Avon’s Mayor Cllr Sam McNaught Barrow visited us and presented prizes to the winners: Stratford upon Avon Town Council’s support is essential for the encouragement for sport and recreation in the Warwickshire area and community”

Stratford’s junior squads were back on the water on Sunday after coxing at the Fun Regatta, putting in more training for the British Rowing’s Junior Championships at National Watersports Centre, Holme Pierrepont, Nottingham this coming weekend. Steve Wellstead, Junior Co-ordinator commented, “The junior squad will be heavily represented with crews from J14, J15, J16 and J17/18 categories all there for their chance for glory against some of the best schools and clubs in the country: we wish them luck! The logistics of getting multiple boats, trailers, coaches, athletes, coaches and supporters to National Water Sports Centre, Nottingham is immense and I’d like to thank all who have given their support, time and effort to make this complex exercise possible!”

For media coverage, see Stratford Observer online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-club-hold-annual-fun-regatta-on-the-avon, https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/news/picture-special-rowers-take-to-the-avon-for-stratford-boat-clubs-fun-regatta and page two https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/07/17&pages=32#page/2 and back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/07/17&pages=32#page/30 and also Stratford Herald centre page twenty four and twenty five and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/news/gallery-15-photos-of-stratford-boat-club-s-fun-regatta-2026-9474677

For more great pictures of the Fun Regatta, see Stuart Baines’ selection https://onedrive.live.com/?id=%2Fpersonal%2F3dd8f6a70c0cb625%2FDocuments%2FPictures%2FFun%20Regatta%202026&listurl=%2Fpersonal%2F3dd8f6a70c0cb625%2FDocuments&ithint=folder&e=s0qZx2&migratedtospo=true&redeem=aHR0cHM6Ly8xZHJ2Lm1zL2YvYy8zZGQ4ZjZhNzBjMGNiNjI1L0lnQ2VqZFJrVDhmVFQ1WUY3MktNLUhlcEFZTjZUSG9jRmVha3N3UXdnVDhSNEVNP2U9czBxWngy&ga=1

Stratford’s Masters Show Their Mettle at Ironbridge!

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Racing first for Stratford upon Avon Boat Club at Ironbridge Regatta was Rebecca England and Suzie Radley in the Women’s Master’s C 2x. They faced Burton Leander in their first race together and, with both crews facing steering challenges, the race ended in a dead heat, forcing both crews to return to the start for a rerow. Strong fitness and good steering calls saw Stratford take a comfortable win in the rerow. In their semi-final, Stratford came up against an inexperienced Trafford crew, which gave England and Radley a chance to find a good rhythm and length while honing their steering. The final, in much hotter conditions, was a closer race but with Stratford pulling ahead, their Windermere opponents steered into shallow water allowing Stratford to take the final victory.

Late morning Gina Fusco and Ellie Davis competed as Women’s Masters E double had  a straight final against Burton Leander. They had a good smooth start and continue to follow their race plan with a consistent rate of thirty three strokes per minute throughout. Whilst they didn’t win, it was a good race losing by one length.

In the afternoon division the Women’s D coxed IV of Rebecca England (stroke), Ellie Davis, Gina  Fusco, Charlotte Jones and coxed by Jen Carey raced against a strong Bewdley crew who were very experienced. Stratford lost by a length and a half but were very pleased with their performance due to having a good length and a solid row rating thirty to thirty two strokes per minute.

Caroline Collins and Jane Cryer joined the Bewdley, Worcester and Stourport composite Eight E at Ironbridge Regatta to compete against Evesham, after a very solid and fast start of getting the advantage from the outset and they enjoyed a confident and powerful start of thirty four strokes per minute down the 750m course winning easily. Caroline said, “It was great row and fabulous to win in such a beautiful surroundings.”

Stratford masters men were represented in men’s quadruple sculls in a straight head to head final against the much fancied Grosvenor National Championship Gold medal winning crew. On a difficult winding course exacerbated by tight rowing lanes and an unusually fast stream steering for all coxless boats throughout the day proved difficult and the race proved no less challenging with both Grosvenor and Stratford leaving their lanes and impeding the other crew. Grosvenor, a length and a half down after a strong Stratford start, exacerbated their steering difficulties by halfway in this 800 metre race and collided with the bank one of many collisions during the day.

The umpires then decided to re-row the race given both crews had left their lanes despite Stratford being in the lead. In the restart, the Stratford crew of Pete Spivey, Dan Simkins, Neville Hand and Tom Doherty had an excellent start to again lead Grosvenor by a length by half way. With Doherty steering an excellent course, they were able to avoid Grosvenor who had no answer as Stratford proceeded to pull away eventually finishing clear winners by three lengths.

Stratford men were not finished however with Pete Spivey and Tom Doherty forming part of a men’s masters eight composite of four clubs against a Button Leander crew. A powerful start and a strong rhythm of thirty seven strokes per minute proved too much for Burton and the composite crew ran out comfortable winners. Said Neville Hand afterwards, ” I’m nearly eighty years old and to get out of the house for a successful Stratford race like this is a real treat!”

Jane Cryer returned to Ironbridge to compete in the 500m Sprint with the Bewdley Women Masters C crew. After a convincing win against a more inexperienced Falcon crew, there was a more matched contest against in the final against Burton Leander. The Bewdley/Stratford crew executed their fast start and opened up the distance quickly which was maintained and built on through the race with a clear two lengths victory. Jane said, “It’s the first Ironbridge Regatta I have done and the longer and sprint course which give great variety on a beautiful stretch of river. It’s always great to row and even better to win and come back to Stratford with two more winners pots!”

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page forty four and Stratford Observer online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-club-masters-show-their-mettle-at-ironbridge-regatta and back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/07/03&pages=24#page/24

Stratford Regatta: Another Success!

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The weather could not have been better for the Stratford upon Avon Boat Club regatta on Saturday but perhaps a little too hot for some of the athletes but that didn’t stop the great participation with local crews and further afield from Evesham Rowing Club, Royal Grammar School Worcester Boat Club, King Edward V1 School Boat Club, Cheltenham Ladies College Rowing Club, Hereford Rowing Club, Magdalen College School Boat Club, Worcester Rowing Club as well as major entries from Stratford upon Avon Boat Club itself. The regatta this year had three divisions and one hundred and twenty four separate races starting at promptly at 08.30 and running all day through until a close at 17.00hrs! Running a regatta to time is no mean feat and is a tribute to the race organisers!

This year the Club was very heartened again by the huge turn out from local and distant clubs and the interest from the public. A massive thanks to all our hard working Stratford Boat Club members, visiting crews, umpires and officials and especially the public for supporting the event. The Club was especially honoured to have Stratford upon Avon Town Council Mayor Cllr Sam McNaught Barrow attend the regatta and walk the course with Stratford Boat Club Chairman Dawson Curnock.

Stratford’s young J13 rowers showed determination at their first home regatta by putting in a spirited performance at the Stratford Junior Sprint Regatta, their home event and only the third competition of the season. With friends and family watching, there was an added sense of pressure but the young athletes rose impressively to the occasion.

The day began with the coxed quad of Harriet Wheeler, Zilpha Pope, Safian Khan and Luke Spurling, expertly steered by Hattie McGurk. After a challenging start, the crew quickly found their rhythm, displaying smooth, composed rowing as they powered down the course. Despite closing the gap on their competitors, they were just unable to overtake before the finish.

In the doubles’ events, three crews took to the water: Ruben Hawkswell and Gregor Francis; Enoch Stanford and Eftychios Ntoukakis; and Margo Paul with Natasha Wallace. All three pairings delivered confident and controlled performances in their heats. Margo and Natahsa came especially close to victory, narrowly missing out by just a bow ball in a thrilling finish.

The singles races rounded off the day for the J13’s, with athletes showing admirable endurance after a full schedule. Georgia Wheeler and Hattie McGurk both produced energetic efforts. The boys’ singles competitors—Gregor Francis, Enoch Stanford and Eftychios Ntoukakis—demonstrated excellent commitment by doubling up to ensure a full field in the J13 Open category, racing with energy and composure despite their earlier events.

Off the water, the squad played an important role in supporting the smooth running of the regatta, providing a shoe-running service between boating areas throughout the day. Their teamwork, positivity and enthusiasm never faltered.

Commenting, Rebecca Paul, the J13 Coach said, “All in all, it was a fantastic showing from the young squad who proved themselves to be a credit to the Club both in competition and in their support of the event.”

In their first race of the day, the Stratford Boat Club WJ15 doubles (Parsons and Hammond) pulled back after a slow start to lead against Worcester Royal Grammar School from half way, winning the semi-final by a convincing one length. In an exciting and close final against Evesham RC, they competed strongly, almost neck and neck from the final bend but could not overhaul their competitors who won by one length.

In a second WJ15x2 showing, Scarlet Wheel and Raya Hothi started strong, rowing a strong race against Hereford, keeping level all the way until Hereford pushed forward towards the finish line in the last few strokes.

Tristan Hammick, OJ15 singles, got off to a great start! He was in the lead all the way to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, then on the last push his opponent from Hereford sprinted on to clear a win of half a length.

WJ15x1 saw the final two entries for the J15 squad. After having a first race scratched, it was straight to a semi-final for both Stratford athletes, Meredith Paul and Abi Dunn, faced crews from Evesham and Worcester. Cheered by the home crowd, both Stratford athletes had convincing wins to reach an all-Stratford Final. The final was just as exciting; it was neck and neck until the ferry bend when Dunn nudged ahead and took a lead for a home club win!

For the J16 Stratford squad Ed Appleton sculled first in Division One, with a strong and competent row, losing to the eventual event winner from Magdalen College by one length. In Division Two, Euan Richter and Will Shaw sculled very well to win their semi but in the final, they were pipped to the finish line by a canvas with Magdalen College taking the event win for OJ16 2x.

In Division Three in the WJ16 4x- event, Orla Linforth, Immie de Pennington, Maria Ntoukaki and Erin Appleton (bow) took a four length victory to win the event in a straight final. Commenting, Hugo Happel, J16 Coach said, “Well done to all athletes today, some brilliant sculling!”

Stratford’s J17/J18 squad were also in action. First to go was the open double scull of James Albrighton and Theo Richter: after pulling out an early lead, the boys succumbed to King Edward School in the first round. Next on course were the women’s double scull of Tessa Parkin and Josephine Cooper who overcame crews from Evesham Rowing Club and Cheltenham Ladies College on their way to winning the final against Worcester Rowing Club. The women’s coxless quadruple scull of Lily Warren, Poppy Warren, Sophie Evans and Bryony Francis continued their winning ways with a confident win over Cheltenham Ladies to set up a local derby with Evesham Rowing Club in the final. The girls delivered again with a one length win to take the trophy.

Dawson Curnock, Stratford Boat Club Chairman commented, “It was a long day’s racing: our tea tent was extremely busy dispensing dozens of cakes and snacks. What a magnificent day topped by great racing! We ran the regatta under very tight safety protocols. We were especially grateful for the help and tolerance of those operators who work and make their living on the river.”

Saturday proved to be another day of rowing success, fun times and great learning for the Stratford Boat Club’s squads through the age range. Saturday’s Junior Spring Regatta was the 500m course following the Avon through the town from Holy Trinity Church through to the finish line at the Club’s grounds.

Helen Heenan, Stratford Boat Club’s Regatta Secretary said, “We were blessed with good weather for the regatta and there were crowds watching the racing adding much to Stratford’s atmosphere and vitality: we were glad to showcase our sport and demonstrate our part in the success of our town! Again, we appreciate the tolerance and help from the other river users and colleagues and look forward to our Fun Regatta on Saturday 11 July.”

For media coverage see Stratford Observer back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/06/26&pages=24#page/24 and online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-club-hold-annual-junior-sprint-regatta-on-the-river-avon and Stratford Herald page forty four and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/picture-special-crowds-line-the-avon-for-stratford-s-junio-9471642

For more great pictures of the regatta, see the Baines’ family selection https://1drv.ms/f/c/8e50dac120123b06/IgBsmV_VQX7ERb2X8L7KMt7eAXr-gPIhhjLrGTQmfDl9TqM