Tag Archives: Stratford Boat Club

River Health Forum calls for collective action: Stratford Boat Club steps up the pace

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More than forty representatives from local and regional river based organisations gathered at Stratford upon Avon Boat Club recently to explore how science, technology and community action can help improve the health of the River Avon.

The Warwickshire Avon River Health Forum brought together speakers with expertise in freshwater ecology, water quality data, monitoring technology and community led river protection. Their presentations highlighted the need for better evidence, coordinated investigation and practical action to protect the river for wildlife and everyone who values it.

Also amongst the audience were Manuela Perteghella MP; Susan Juned, Leader of Stratford on Avon District Council and Chair of its Climate Change Panel; Esme Booth OLY; and Mark Dewdney, Stratford Boat Club’s Head Adaptive Coach.

Mark Barrow, underwater freshwater filmmaker with Beneath British Waters, shared how fish populations in rivers he has filmed have declined dramatically over recent decades. His film ‘Beneath the Oars’ explores the hidden underwater world of the Thames at Henley, reminding audiences that a river’s surface can conceal significant ecological changes.

Sports data scientist and SafeAvon volunteer Freddie Wilson presented water quality data collected at two sites in Stratford upon Avon, alongside a case study from Royal Leamington Spa Canoe Club. Freddie explained that, although both Stratford sites would be classified as poor, if they were designated bathing waters, their 90th and 95th percentile readings for E. coli and enterococci are among the highest on the Avon and Leam. This suggests that average bacterial levels are high, spikes are particularly pronounced, or both. Local citizen science is demonstrating how consistent testing and analysis can identify patterns in these spikes and help guide further investigation into their possible sources.

Colin Maltby, River Insight and Improvement Manager at Severn Trent, discussed water quality information, investment in river improvements and the development of continuous monitoring under Section 82 of the Environment Act 2021. Stratford upon Avon Boat Club is calling for continuous water quality monitoring at the Old Bathing Place to build a clearer picture of conditions at this popular riverside location.

James Chapman, UK Business Development Manager – Environmental Solutions at Xylem Water Solutions UK Ltd, demonstrated how Surfbee, a remotely controlled uncrewed surface vehicle, can map water quality in detail and help investigate changes along a river. Stratford Boat Club is working with James to bring the Surfbee back to the Avon to help identify potential pollution sources.

Caroline Roper, from the University of Birmingham’s River Champions programme, explained how they train and equip volunteers to gather consistent river-monitoring data to support discussions with the Environment Agency and other stakeholders. Stratford Boat Club hopes Stratford on Avon District Council will explore joining the regional programme, enabling local volunteers to contribute to a wider picture of river health.

Mary Manandhar, convenor of River Hope and The Gathering: for Water and Nature, and a SafeAvon citizen scientist, read her prose poem ‘Water Speaks’. Mary highlighted that rivers are just one phase of Earth’s interconnected water cycle which has sustained all life for several billion years. Water asks humans to reflect on our values and behaviour and use heart-led imagination, alongside monitoring data and technology, to restore and protect waterbodies.

Stratford Boat Club will continue its water quality testing alongside SafeAvon, supported by a Thriving Waters grant from British Rowing. The Club will also seek meetings with Stratford on Avon District Council and Manuela Perteghella MP to discuss the recent findings and how local organisations can work together to improve conditions for recreational users.

Olympic rower Esme Booth OLY commented: “Our rivers aren’t good enough and I’ve seen that first-hand from years of rowing them. But I left this event hopeful. The momentum is building locally and now we have to keep it going until our rivers are healthy again.”

The Stratford Boat Club wants to strengthen collaboration with SafeAvon, Warwickshire Catchment Based Approach partners, river-based businesses, recreational sports, community groups and local authorities. The aim is to share evidence, investigate concerns and turn findings into meaningful improvements.

Eric Appleton, Chairman of Stratford upon Avon Boat Club, said, “From Mark Barrow’s underwater films to the latest monitoring technology, the forum showed how evidence can help us understand what is happening to this stretch of the Avon. Stratford Boat Club will step up the pace, continue our testing, seeking continuous monitoring at the Old Bathing Place and exploring further investigation using Surfbee.

But one club cannot do this alone. We call on local partners to work together, share data and turn evidence into action. We want a healthier Avon for wildlife and for everyone who values the river. Everyone who benefits from or values the river has a stake in its future. We must act as guardians of the river, speaking up for the wildlife that cannot speak for itself and safeguarding this precious resource for future generations. The Avon is a shared responsibility.”

Stratford’s Juniors Excel at Gloucester Autumn Head!

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Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s juniors competed at Gloucester Autumn Head at the weekend and after a tough 7km row up to the start line with a headwind most of the way, the U16 girls double crew comprising Martina Bruce and Lilly Parsons set off down the 5km course at a fast but controlled rate. As they passed the halfway mark, they were still looking strong, working together to maintain a good boat speed and a tight line around the bends. They unfortunately got held up slightly by slower traffic as they passed under a bridge but soon managed to overtake. In the last section, they picked up the pace and gave everything they had, motivated by a J18 pair bearing down on them at an impressive speed. They finished the race in good form with a time of 24:45 and managed a respectable fifth position out of eight competitors in their class amongst strong competition.

The wind persisted into the afternoon as the J16x2 crew of Reuben Stanford and Connor Birrell set off, ranked second and looking to maintain or better that prediction. A steady and fast pace kept them in touch with first place hopeful from Hereford and brought them side by side for the last 1.5 km of the course. Good river positioning throughout and pushing the pace led them to a first place finish in their category by thirty seconds as well as the fastest double on the water for the long course and seventh fastest out of one hundred and thirty one boats!

The sight of sunshine at Gloucester Autumn Head for the first time in years was a good omen however conditions soon worsened for the J17/18 squad in the morning division on the long 5km course with very gusty wind all morning. The WJ18 4x- of Martha Cooke, Maria Ntoukaki, Tessa Parkin and Martha Baines came second in their event. Seb Happel and Euan Richter rowed up a category in the OJ18 2x event and came third. Imogen de Pennington, trialling for GB in the W U19 1x event, sculled a fantastic race to win this key event, watched on by British Rowing staff.

In the afternoon, the conditions were much improved. The women’s J18 double sculls of Martha Baines/Tessa Parkin, and Orla Linforth/Erin Appleton sculled really nicely to take third and fifth. Finally, Ed Appleton rowing up a category in the OJ18 1x Band 2 event, sculled with great technique to take second place.

Commenting, Hugo Happel, J17/18 Coach said, “All athletes managed the conditions very well and displayed some great sculling: well done to all!”

Stratford masters Thomas Doherty, Pete Spivey and Rebecca England represented the masters’ squad at Gloucester Autumn Head. In quite blustery conditions, Tom Doherty and Pete Spivey competed first in the masters F double sculls beating the only other entry into the category from Taunton by three minutes over the 5km course. Following this, in the afternoon division, Thomas Doherty took to the water for a second time to row in a mixed masters double with Rebecca England, thus completing a mammoth 28km over the course of the day. While the duo felt disappointed in their time, having had to slow down through narrow bridges due to traffic in front, they too came away with a medal.

Although the rest of the country was experiencing the high winds, the course at Gloucester on the canal was relatively sheltered and the event was able to take place with fair racing for all and great results from Stratford Boat Club as a whole.

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page forty three and Stratford Observer back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/11/06&pages=32#page/32

Boat Club’s New Eight Named After Stratford’s Silver Olympian

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Sunday marked a special day for Stratford Boat Club as they named their ‘new’ lightweight eight after Stratford’s Silver Olympian, Esmé Booth

Eric Appleton, Chairman of Stratford upon Avon Boat Club, welcomed the Club’s members and invited guests to the boat naming ceremony by highlighting Esmé’s remarkable journey from a Boat Club junior to Silver Olympian and the hard work that she and her coaches had put in over the years and how her positive attitude and perseverance were an inspiration not only to aspiring juniors but to members throughout the Club

The Chairman commented further by saying, “Naming a boat after someone is one of the highest honours that a rowing club can bestow: it creates a lasting connection between that individual’s achievements and the generations that follow. We hope that every crew who rows in this eight, or any other boat for that matter, will be inspired by the example that Esmé has set and embrace the values that helped Esmé get to her Olympic standard: commitment, perseverance, sportsmanship and ambition”

Stratford’s President Jen Cary echoed the Chairman’s sentiments and spoke of the strength of the Club, the people who made it what it is and thanked members, volunteers, supporters, sponsors, donors and fundraisers who work tirelessly for the Club and benefit the whole local community

After the unveiling and naming of the boat by Esmé herself, the members and guests went into the Club Room for q and a session with Esmé and some refreshments

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page nineteen and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/news/stratford-s-olympic-medalist-esme-booth-has-boat-named-in-he-9487171 and also Stratford Observer online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/news/boat-named-in-honour-of-medal-winning-olympian-rower-64989

Stratford Make Short Work of Wallingford Long Distance Sculls

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On Saturday, Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s J17/18 Performance squad had three crews in Division One and three in Division Three at Wallingford Long Distance Sculls head race. In the former, racing the 4k in the Open 4x- event, Will Shaw (bow), Seb Happel, Euan Richter and Ed Appleton came fifth overall out of two hundred and eleven crews competing and fifth in their event, pitted against strong crews from St Paul’s, Wallingford and Magdalene in a very commendable time of 15:58.7. The WJ18 4x- of Millie Smith (bow), Tessa Parkin, Martha Baines and Martha Cooke sculled very well and also came fifth in their event against strong scullers from Lady Eleanor, Henley and Wallingford in a time of 17:27.6. Finally, Imogen de Pennington sculled against twenty other WJ17 1x competitors and came third in a time of 19:32.0, a fantastic achievement for someone with only one year of sculling under her belt.

In Division Three, sculling in the Women’s 4x- event (4k), Erin Appleton (bow), Maria Ntoukaki, Imogen de Pennington and Orla Linforth came seventh in their event, putting in an excellent time of 17:18.4 on the board. In the WJ18 2x event, Tessa Parkin (bow) and Martha Baines won their event in 18:40.0, beating strong crews from Wallingford, St Edwards School, Headington and Thames Scullers. Millie Smith (bow) and Martha Cooke came fifth and sculled with great technique.

Commenting, J17/18 Coach Hugo Happel said, “The J17/18 boys and girls sculled really well on this great stretch of the Thames, really putting Stratford Boat Club on the map once more. Their attitude off the water and their determination and grit on the water is such a thing to behold. Lots to build on: well done to all athletes!”

The first race of the season for the J16 Performance squad brought beautiful rowing conditions: clear blue skies, no wind and no stream. The morning saw Connor Birrell apply himself well to the 4km course in a large field of high quality singles, finishing twenty two out of forty two competitors across two divisions. The boys double of Nathan Lebordais and Rueben Stanford had an excellent row, full of power and energy to finish second, only three seconds behind the Wallingford crew rowing on their home stretch and well clear of all the chasing boats. Such a result early in the season bodes well for the rest of the year.

In the afternoon, the girls double of Martina Bruce-Bonilla and Lilly Parsons rowed neatly and positively to finish seventh. By the time the girls singles set off, the temperature had risen unseasonably high and it was warm work for Abi Dunn who finished fourteenth and Meredith Paul who finished nineteenth and both scullers worked hard in a field of strong athletes.

For more great pictures of Wallingford LDS, see Kathy Baines’ selection https://1drv.ms/f/c/8e50dac120123b06/IgDL3-1WZD1eTb34ndqwKf3sAXiPyCK1VlATiX666n-rgfA

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page forty seven and Stratford Observer online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-clubs-performance-squads-shine-at-wallingford-long-distance-sculls

Stratford Score Twice at Chester

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On Sunday, Stratford upon Avon Boat Club were represented by Thomas Doherty and Rebecca England at Chester Long Distance Sculls. As part of their training for the Pairs Head of the River in London, they raced the 5k course twice, both in the masters’ and the senior mixed double events. In both divisions, they were really pleased with their racing, having maintained a good rhythm and length throughout. The double was able to take the power and rating up when under pressure from chasing crews and they finished the day with a medal from the Masters’ event and a respectable third place in the Seniors’ race.

Meanwhile, closer to home, Stratford Boat Club was the venue for the ever popular Shakespeare Hospice Annual Dragon Boat event with twenty six crews from all over the region competing and a thrilling six boat final! The Dragon Boat Event raises much needed funds for the Shakespeare Hospice. Next year’s event is Sunday 19 September 2027

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page fifty two and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/sport/doherty-and-england-impress-at-chester-long-distance-sculls-9484312 and Stratford Observer online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-club-pair-triumph-at-chester-long-distance-sculls and back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/09/25&pages=40#page/40

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’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 Clean Up at Evesham!

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Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s J17 squad were represented by the single scull of Sophie Frankin and the double scull of Isla Dunn and Becca Smith at the weekend’s Evesham Regatta. First down the track was Sophie who was pitted against an experienced Worcester sculler and was unable to hold onto an early lead. The Dunn/Smith combination dominated the semi-final against Pengwern however met their match in a quality AB Severn crew in the final.

The Stratford J15 squad created a presence in Saturday’s racing having success in the finals and keeping the pressure on their competitors in the 1000m knock out races.

First up, the OpJ15 x 2 of Nathan Lebordais and Reuben Stanford took an early win against Magdalen College in their semi final before giving AB Severn a run for their money in the final, placing a well-earned second overall. Lebordais and Stanford returned later in the day as part of the OpJ15x 4 joined by Raya Hothi (cox), Connor Birrell and Tristan Hammick. The crew defeated Magdalen and then Monmouth in the heats to earn a place in the final against AB Severn. While there was a strong start off the line, the AB Severn squad maintained a pace over the 1000 meters that was just out of reach for the Stratford crew who came into second overall.

Abi Dunn competing in the WJ15 x 1 singles brought home some silverware by starting with a convincing first win against her Evesham opponent in the semi-finals setting up a tense head to head final with fellow Stratford rower from J14. During a close race, Abi kept a consistent lead all the way through and secured victory by half a length.

The WJ15 x 4 composed of Martina Bruce (cox), Lily Parsons, Meredith Paul, Bethany Hammond and Scarlett Wheeler delivered a strong performance showing strength, resilience and determination as they beat Monmouth by two and a half  lengths in the semi-final and faced off against a second Monmouth crew in the final. From the start the team pushed for the lead, running neck and neck over the 1000 meters and, in a nail biting finish won by a canvas, taking home the win. This was especially savoured as three in the crew had rowed earlier in the day in their respective WJ15x2 pairs (Parsons/Paul and Bruce/Hothi) and they were keen for a win!

The J14 squad made the most of Evesham’s two day event by representing Stratford Boat Club on both days. Amongst some encouraging performances, and some hard won lessons on pacing and steering, the stand-out crew from Saturday’s longer course were the boys’ quad of Archie Eaton, Chris Durance, Arthur Burt, Ethan Siwakowski and Eli Ford as coxswain. They completely outclassed Magdalene College School in the first round then earned an equally composed win against Cheltenham College to secure a spot in the final where an Evesham/AB Severn Rowing Club composite edged them out in a close race.

Sunday’s sprint started early for Amelia Cruickshank who gamely volunteered to row for an Evesham quad depleted by injury. Returning later that day she joined Islay Milles in the WJ14 single sculls. The two girls mercilessly worked their way through the qualifying rounds to set up a thrilling Stratford-Stratford final that was too close to call until the closing stages when Milles lit the afterburners to edge to victory.

Also, Stratford’s Women’s Masters 2x of Ellie Davies and Gina Fusco, raced in a final against a Women’s Masters E double Stourport crew. Despite steering a rather longer  than necessary racing line, the duo were delighted to hold off their opponents and take the win by a canvas.

Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s J13 squad enjoyed an exciting and memorable day of racing at the Evesham Sprint Regatta, where they competed in singles, doubles and quad scull events. For all the athletes, this was their first experience of side‑by‑side racing, making the occasion both challenging and rewarding. Many of the rowers had only rowed in singles or doubles two or three times before, never mind racing them, yet every athlete rose to the occasion and performed admirably under pressure.

The three doubles crews of Hattie McGurk and Zilpha Pope, Ruben Hawkswell and Eftychios Ntoukakis, and Safian Khan and Luke Spurling were first on the water. All three crews showed confidence and determination, each holding their own throughout the race and finishing a very close second.

The singles races followed, with strong performances from Gregor Francis, Enoch Stanford, Georgia Wheeler, Margo Paul, Zilpha Pope, Natasha Wallace and Harriet Wheeler. Despite first‑time racing nerves, all rowed with composure and confidence. A special mention goes to Margo Paul, who delivered a commanding performance to win the WJ13 singles event, beating the opposition by an impressive two and a half lengths.

In the quad sculls, the boys’ crew of Enoch Stanford (cox), Gregor Francis (stroke), Safian Khan, Eftychios Ntoukakis and Ruben Hawkswell put up a strong and determined performance but were knocked out by the eventual winners, a very strong home crew from Evesham. The girls’ quad of Harriet Wheeler (cox), Margo Paul (stroke), Natasha Wallace, Hattie McGurk and Georgia Wheeler also raced with great spirit, losing to the Evesham crew.

Throughout the day, all crews showed superb teamwork and sportsmanship, running the course during each race to loudly cheer one another on. Commenting, Rebecca Paul, J13 Coach said, “It was a proud and promising first experience of side‑by‑side racing and an encouraging sign for the future of these young athletes.”

Next up in eights division the Stratford Women’s Masters D VIII were determined to maximise the six second head start they had against a composite younger Gloucester and Evesham crew. After a solid start and a race pace of thirty four strokes per minute, the crew widened the gap and held their opposition over the 1000m course with a convincing win of three and a half  lengths. The crew were Jen Cary, Cox, Ellie Davis Stroke, Gina Fusco, Jane Cryer, Abby Symons, Rebecca England, Lucy Scarlett, Caroline Collins and Charlotte Jones (Bow). Bow seat Charlotte Jones said, “We are delighted with our first win of the regatta season as an eight, following our winter training. We are looking forward to our next race at the Nottingham Masters next week.”

Almost immediately after deboating from the VIII, Rebecca England and Lucy Scarlett took to the river again to race in the senior women’s 2x. In their first regatta of the season together, they had a good start and were pleased with their row despite being bested by a very high quality and youthful opposition.

The Women’s Masters low CRI coxed quad of Sarah Walker, Urania Carreiro, Emily Burton  and Charlotte Juxon with cox Sarah Bedwell were determined to give the home crew a good race in the semi final.  Despite much distraction at the start with a single stuck in a tree, a capsize and a double very much told off for a quick race practice, the crew refocused, stuck to their plan and won comfortably. A few timing issues to improve and with Sarah B still ringing in their ears, it was time for the final. Much more relaxed and ready to fight again the crew raced hard and gained ground quickly. This gave the lift and belief needed and they pushed past their opposition at the half way point, then stayed flat out for the last 500m again winning comfortably.

Their coach Dawson Curnock said of the crew, “Two great performances including the win in their final are the culmination of commitment to training that they embarked upon over three months ago.”

In Stratford’s last race of the regatta, the mixed 2x of Rebecca England and Thomas Doherty faced a tough task with local rivals Warwick having a head start due to the masters’ handicap system. Despite this, the Stratford double managed a fast start, leaving the blocks at a rate of thirty eight strokes per minute and were able to row down their competition, winning by a length and a half.

For media coverage, please see Stratford Herald page thirty seven and Stratford Observer online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-club-celebrate-success-at-evesham-regatta and back sports page https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2026/05/08&pages=24#page/24

Stratford Boat Club Honours President Paul Stanton with Inaugural President’s Dinner

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Stratford upon Avon Boat Club welcomed just under one hundred guests to the Welcombe Hotel on Saturday 18 April for the Inaugural President’s Dinner, held to recognise the leadership and long service of Club President, Paul Stanton.

Guests were invited to wear regatta inspired attire, and a guard of honour formed by young athletes and their blades welcomed attendees to the dinner, reflecting the strength of the Club’s junior section and the cross‑generational respect for Paul’s contribution to Stratford Boat Club.

Life Members Sue and David Brooks were among the guests. Sue, originally from Durham, became the Club’s first female rower after Paul Stanton opened membership to women during his captaincy in 1971. His tenure included twinning the Club with Kolkata.

King Edward VI School (K.E.S.) Headmaster Bennet Carr and his wife attended, representing the long‑standing history between the Club and K.E.S. The two organisations share not only the Clubhouse but Olympic and Paralympic medallists.

The evening began with a drinks reception, followed by speeches from President Paul Stanton, Life Member Sue Brooks, and Captain Ed Lewry, introduced by Master of Ceremonies Graham Collier. A tribute from President Paul Stanton, Life Member Sue Brooks, and Captain Ed Lewry, introduced by Master of Ceremonies Graham Collier, was read in his absence due to a family emergency, noting: “A rowing club is more than boats, blades and results: it is a community built upon commitment, continuity and care… Your leadership has left this Club stronger than you found it.”

Olympian Esme Booth delivered an engaging after dinner address, combining honesty, humour and a competitive spark that had the whole room involved. She delivered a specially designed “Heads and Tails” game, to bring the Club’s history to life in an accessible and entertaining way. Drawing on research provided by Head Adaptive Coach Mark Dewdney, Esme’s quiz enabled guests of all ages to connect with the Club’s heritage and with one another.

During his speech, Paul Stanton mused on the massive amount of volunteering time had been given both by present and past members with their contributions adding greatly to the spirit of the Club, the financial position and the camaraderie both on and off the water.

Decorations reused from the Club’s 150th anniversary celebrations included handmade bunting, handcrafted table topper oars and a restored original Club oar (“spoon”) repurposed to hold cupcakes. Tables featured spring flowers – lilac, marsh marigolds and bluebells – cut from her garden by Paul’s wife Jan in pewter tankards earned during Paul’s rowing career. Their daughter, Ellie, shared a family anecdote recalling Paul purchasing a boat while on honeymoon in Switzerland. Paul and Jan have now been married for fifty nine years.

A handmade celebration cake, shaped as a rowing blade, was unveiled, charting Paul’s rowing journey alongside the Club’s own. A handwritten and dedicated poem reflected the journey and family anecdotes.

The Club also announced its commitment to a new Honours Board, based on archival research by Mark Dewdney, who has traced every Captain and President from 1874 to the present using local media reports, Club Minute Books and local historical records.

A raffle featuring a coaching session with Esme Booth OLY as well as generous donations gifted by local businesses raised funds for the maintenance of the Club’s boat fleet, undertaken weekly by volunteers and trainee juniors. These efforts support the equipment relied upon by athletes across all sections.

The event brought together juniors, seniors, masters, recreational rowers, adaptive athletes and family to recognise Paul Stanton’s decades of service and to celebrate the Club’s ongoing commitment to community, heritage and its strong volunteer‑led ethos. Stratford upon Avon Boat Club is and remains an inclusive, volunteer led club offering rowing for all ages and abilities, from competitive performance pathways to recreational rowing for fun.

For media coverage, see Stratford Herald page twenty nine and online https://www.stratford-herald.com/news/stratford-boat-club-honours-paul-stanton-with-first-presiden-9464404 and also Stratford Observer online https://stratfordobserver.co.uk/news/special-dinner-celebrates-stratford-boat-clubs-long-serving-president