Tag Archives: Dawson Curnock

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 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

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 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

Stratford Clean Up The Medals at Evesham Head

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Making a welcome return to the Stratford Boat Club’s racing calendar, after several years of cancellations, was Evesham Autumn Head. The race which was run over 2000m on the River Avon in Evesham always proves popular and this year was no exception.  Stratford upon Avon Boat Club packed the entries with over thirty crews racing over three divisions.

The J14s were out in force fielding crews across all three divisions. An excellent day of racing kicked off with Chris Durance, Arthur Burt and Archie Eaton delivering composed performances in their single sculls, unfortunately losing out to strong Evesham crews enjoying home advantage over familiar waters. Hot on their heels in the girls’ event came Islay Milles and Eva Cruise who processed to blow the opposition away finishing first and second in one of the larger events of the day. To prove it was no fluke, the girls swiftly returned to the start in their double scull for a Division Two race and duly confirmed their status as Queens of the Avon with a blistering performance against yet more strong opposition. Double medals, and all before lunch.

The afternoon saw the now familiar local derby between the Stratford J14 boys’ quad (Eaton and Burt joined by Eli Ford, Archie Mansfield and Ethan Siwakowski) pitted against Evesham. As best of frenemies, the two boats battled valiantly down the 2km course with the Evesham crew recording a winning time less than one second better than Stratford’s, an incredibly close result over a long distance.

Coach Jon Francis was pleased with the day and said, “They’ve built on solid performances at Wallingford to land the first silverware of the new season, proving this squad have the makings of something special”. Club Chairman, Dawson Curnock, was similarly impressed not least with the young athletes’ ability to navigate the gentle curve of the river whilst avoiding the large yet static moored barges.

Stratford’s J15 squad fielded a large entry at Evesham, with ten boats in total across all three divisions and with many of the athletes rowing the 2km course twice. First up in the lovely flat conditions were the doubles, with all three girls’ crews finishing a few seconds apart in fifth (Martina Bruce/Bethany Hammond), sixth (Abi Dunn/Meredith Paul) and seventh (Lillian Parsons/Scarlett Wheeler). In the boys doubles, Reuben Stanford and Tristan Hammick had a good row to finish second.

Later in the morning, the J15s rowed in the quads, with the girls racing well against a field of Headington School boats (which took the top four places) finishing sixth in the division (Meredith Paul, Bethany Hammon, Raya Hothi, Martina Bruce, Charlotte Mansfield (cox)). The boys once again demonstrated the power that had given them good finishes in national events last year to win their division by nearly a minute (Nathan Leobordis, Reuben Stanford, Herbie Shickle, Conner Birrell, Tristan Hammick (cox)).

In the final division of the day, Stratford’s J15’s put out four singles, with Abi Dunn placing fourth and Raya Hothi eleventh in a competitive girls’ race. In the boys’ races, Conner Birrell had an excellent race, setting off at the head of his division and increasing the gap to the chasing boats to secure his second medal of the day, and Nathan Leobordis followed not far behind in third.

Stratford’s combined J17/J18 squad were in action throughout the day with the first crew down the course being the women’s J18 coxless quadruple scull of Bryony Francis, Lily Warren, Josephine Cooper and Poppy Warren.  The crew opened the scoring for the club with an emphatic win over Evesham on their home water.  Next up was the open J18 double scull of Ollie Rowlands and Theo Richter who delivered a strong performance to record third place overall. Matching the boys’ efforts, the women’s J18 double scull of Alice Jones and Sophie Franklin also recorded third place. Hot on the heels of the doubles was the women’s J18 single scull of Becca Smith who battled down the course for fourth place overall. In the final division of the day, all the J17/J18 athletes had the opportunity to race again. With the opposition firmly in their gaze, the Mixed J18 coxless quadruple scull of Lily Warren, Ollie Rowlands, Theo Richter and Becca Smith sneaked victory over AB Severn by a mere two seconds. Then came the turn of the women’s J18 coxed four of Sophie Franklin, Josephine Cooper, Poppy Warren, Bryony Francis and Alice Jones (coxswain) who again delivered the goods to win by two seconds over Evesham Rowing Club.

First up for Stratford Masters Women Division One were Corinna Burger and Helen Helliwell in a Women’s Masters C double. Their first race after training through the summer, Corinna said, “After a period of anticipation, we were off with good consistent rowing right up until the end, minding a few trees along the way and coming second overall.”

Next up were Ellie Davis (stroke) and Gina Fusco in women’s masters E double. Competing in their first head together, they executed their plan to row a strong, steady and relaxed race which led to a win. The crew were delighted.

In Division Two, Rebecca England (stroke) and Lucy Scarlett racing in their first head together in the senior women’s double. They had a good start and settled into a solid rhythm, Scarlett steering an excellent course round the long bowside bend. A final push gave them the win with which they were thrilled.

In the last Division Three of the day Women’s Masters had three crews entered. Corinna Burger, Clare Booth, Claudine Pearson and Ruth Poulten (bow) in the Women’s Masters D quad. Their boat, Imperious Countess first outing with new riggers and a new crew formation. In the water, the first stroke appeared to demonstrate a complete inability to row but captain Ruth Poulten (bow) navigated “gate-gate” with calm and confidence and thanks to on-land support and a spanner, gates and oars adjusted, once again the crew were mobile. Ruth steered the course superbly for a respectable timed result. Handicaps placed Stratford third behind two home crews. Ruth Poulten said, “Crew camaraderie, team focus and determination ensured we overcame a number of obstacles on the day to complete the 2k race with smiles all round.”

The newly formed Women’s Masters C crew of Rebecca England (stroke), Ellie Davis, Lucy Scarlett, Gina Fusco were joined by J16 Cox Rory in a coxed four. They started well and settled into a strong rhythm. Pushing off the bend, they were able to increase their power, upping the rate and ably steered by Rory Jones, they overtook two quads ahead of them. This gave them the momentum they needed to finish strongly and take the win.

Last up of the day for Women’s Masters was the beginners quad crew of Sarah Walker (bow), Charlotte Juxon (2), Urania O’Reilly (3), Sally Bliss (stroke) and Jen Carey (cox). They came over the line in great form to finish second of three in their first ever head race together. They kept a steady rate from the start with a final push to secure their position. the crew were super proud of what they achieved.

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page sixty three and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/stratford-rowers-are-out-in-force-at-evesham-event-9437519 and also Stratford Observer online https://www.stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-club-win-medals-galore-at-evesham-autumn-head and also back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2025/10/17&pages=24

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 twenty 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, Britney Spears look a likes – One M’oar Time; nuns and bishops – White Smoke; red and white striped blazers and boaters – May The Oars Be With You; Ninjas in black and white and a troop of Jedi warriors! There were also crews made up from local companies and organisations such as Simplify IT, Stratford Ladies Netball Team and a squad from Stratford upon Avon Rugby Club

Commenting further, Adam Franklin Fun Regatta organiser 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 Dani Hunter and her daughter 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.”

Whilst the Club members were running the Fun Regatta, the Club’s masters’ squad were competing in a fantastic two days of racing at Henley Masters Regatta. Held on the iconic Henley Royal Regatta course, the event attracts crews from all over the world competing with the best national crews for a chance to race between the booms.

A bye in the first round saw Stratford’s Mx4x race against Trafford in the quarter final. A strong start ably stroked by Rebecca England saw Stratford racing at thirty six strokes per minute ease out to a two length lead by the 300 metre mark and by halfway had stretched this lead to three lengths. With the race under control, Stratford were able to ease back on the power and finish comfortable winners by three lengths.

Significantly sterner opposition awaited Stratford in the semifinal with World and National Championship medallists Warwick Rowing Club. A strong start with Rebecca leading the crew off at forty strokes per minute and a high tempo race pace of thirty six strokes per minute saw the crews neck and neck at the 300 metre barrier. Warwick, knowing they were in a race, began to increase their effort but excellent steering by Jeanette Caldicott, fresh from her excellent win on Saturday, and a big effort by Pete Spivey and Tom Doherty in the engine room kept Stratford in touch out to the 600 metre mark. Warwick’s superior size and strength saw them increase their lead towards the end of the race running out winners by just over a length.

Said crew member Pete Spivey, “Rebecca and Jeanette with their excellent race control and steering gave us a great platform for two excellent races. Given our limited training opportunities beforehand we can be very satisfied.”

Saturday also saw Stratford’s J17 pair of Xavier Sissins-Roffey and Seth Vondrak race in Band One of the open pairs category at Burton regatta. The crew took a win in their first round by two lengths against an adult composite from Derwent and Trentham, leading the whole way after a strong start. They then went on to win the final against a Derby crew easily, giving them a solid practice race and a good result the week before racing at the British Rowing Championships.

Meanwhile, Curtis Dickens, the pararower from Stratford’s adaptive squad, followed up his recent GB appearance at the Rowing World Cup in Italy with victory at the trials for the England squad. He will represent his country in two weeks’ time at Dorney Lake, the venue of the 2012 Olympic rowing international competition, in the Home Internationals.

Curtis’ adaptive colleagues raced in Cardiff this weekend where Stratford’s adaptive squad won all their races which is in line with their results elsewhere this season. Edward Owen-Smith, a recent thirteen year old adaptive recruit, won in his single and also in a double with buddy rower Aron Altman. Stratford’s Gillian Middleton won comfortably in the women’s double event partnered by a Llandaff rower. The best race of the day involved Paola and Ian Ward who had a titanic struggle with the mixed double crew from Ross with the Wards eventually winning by a length and half. Jake Blatcher had tough draws in the mainstream singles events each day.

Commenting, Mark Dewdney, Stratford Boat Club’s Head Adaptive Coach, said, “Jake continues to be very competitive but just coming up short: a win must be surely just around the corner!”

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 page four https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2025/07/18&pages=24 and online https://www.stratfordobserver.co.uk/news/all-smiles-at-stratford-boat-clubs-fun-regatta and Stratford Herald online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/masters-compete-against-the-nation-s-best-on-iconic-course-9425571 and pages forty seven and pages twenty two and twenty three

For pictures of the Fun Regatta, see Kathy Baines’ great selection at https://1drv.ms/f/c/8e50dac120123b06/EsckqrD2bNZGuZ_TxqfQOZcBRP0rWUyhtwHd2Bp8W4x3Fg

Stratford’s Masters’ Men’s Eight Improve at Gloucester!

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The newly formed Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s masters men’s VIII of Gary Kinley, Tom Stokes, Mark Kelly, David Vazquez, Dawson Curnock, Paul Collins, David Triggs and Gavin Bliss competed at the Gloucester Spring Head on Sunday. This is a huge undertaking at this stage of their development as the distance to the start is 7km, the return row includes the 5km race and a further 2km back to the boat house.

The stroke set a good rhythm at a rate of twenty seven strokes per minute with the boat running nicely. A hold up at the bridge from a single scull forced the VIII to stop and the race time does not reflect the overall progress that the VIII made down the course. Commenting, Amanda Bowden, Masters’ Vice Captain said, “The men did incredibly well and gained valuable experience.”

David Vazquez in the number five seat said, “It was a great team effort and the whole crew felt rightly proud to have been part of Sunday’s race.” The crew would like to thank Pippa Francis from Evesham who stepped in to cox the crew at the last minute and Dawson Curnock for towing the boats.

For media coverage, please see Stratford Herald page forty three and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/stratford-eight-go-the-distance-early-9409279 and also Stratford Observer online https://www.stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-clubs-masters-viii-show-improvement-at-gloucester-spring-head

Boxing Day Scratch Regatta 2024

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Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s traditional Boxing Day Scratch regatta over 600m from the ferry to the Club grounds is always a superb attraction for the Stratford upon Avon townsfolk and visitors to the town over the Christmas break.

This Boxing Day Scratch Regatta was no exception as twenty rowers together with volunteer coxes took part in the coxed fours knockout racing with the bonus of get out on the river which recently has been hampered by high and fast river conditions.

It was an awesome morning of fun working off the roast potatoes and tins of Quality Street consumed on Christmas Day! Five crews took to the water: no collisions unlike last year and a great number of really competitive finishes! Crews were made up of the masters, seniors, novices, juniors and even a few returning family members who dusted off the cobwebs to show us how it’s done!

Commenting, Paul Stanton, the Club’s President said, “The start of 2025 is looking good and the Club looks forward to training and competing in local, regional and national head of the river races.”

The fog momentarily cleared to show the sun still existed before closing in again to the point where the ferry start line was barely visible from the Club! Luckily another dry, mild Boxing Day which meant plenty of family members and the general public were watching from the banks.

Commenting Gary Kinley, a crew member, “The event was really well supported and organised with a big thanks to Steve and Katie Wellstead on the safety launch, Tom marshalling the start, Dawson marshalling the finish line and Dave Edwards organising the day! Onwards and upwards to 2025!”

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/rowers-return-for-festive-regatta-fun-9398102 and page thirty two and Stratford Observer online https://www.stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-club-finish-year-with-annual-boxing-day-regatta

For more great pictures, see Stuart Baines’ excellent selection https://onedrive.live.com/?authkey=%21AKZfHblAh9FYYzw&id=3DD8F6A70C0CB625%21265687&cid=3DD8F6A70C0CB625

British Rowing Environmental Sustainability Award: … and the winner is….

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Stratford upon Avon Boat Club are proud to announce that the Club has been named winner of the British Rowing Environmental Sustainability Award 2024. British Rowing cited the Club’s concern about climate change and the impact it has on grassroot sport that led to a Sustainability Working group being established.

With no budget, the initiative has grown organically but has led to a number of successful initiatives. Specific reference was made to the Club using only water to wash boats and ecofriendly products in the kitchen to reduce the impact on aquatic life. The citation also mentioned the junior workshop that had give a voice to the junior section, a more sustainable approach to the Club’s regatta, the creation of a bee café and a second hand kit sales app to promote the reuse of clothing.

Dawson Curnock, Stratford Boat Club’s Chairman said, “The Club is keen to take steps to become a more sustainable organisation and to try to limit the impact we have on our river and surroundings. Each small step adds up to something bigger. Thank you and well done to the working Group consisting of Claudine Pearson, Gina Fusco, Lizzie Sartain, Eric Appleton, Jake Blatcher, Chris Belcher and Jenn Birrell for suggesting and running the second hand sales.”

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page thirty: see also British Rowing https://www.britishrowing.org/2024/12/winners-of-2024-british-rowing-awards-announced (scroll down to ‘Environmental Sustainability Award: Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’)