Races 2010/11
The 11th of December saw three of Kent’s finest set off to compete at the Walton Small Boats Head, one of the last races of the year. While only a small number of Kent rowers were attending the event itself was huge, with over 500 pairs, doubles and single skulls competing.
The day started off in Canterbury with boats kindly being transported by Andy Turner on his trailer, and Josh and Ash riding in Alice Mason’s deluxe sports car. Thankfully everyone arrived on time, despite Andy having to stop on the hard shoulder due to a boat almost flying off the trailer!
The 3000m course is set in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey and while in theory wide enough for the inevitable steering difficulties that coxless crews face, there were a few spectacular crashes into banks, other boats and even dogs!
First to race were Josh Blackledge and Ash Roberts in the pair. Having had two weeks off due to injury the guys managed to shave off an impressive 9 seconds from their previous time at Marlow, coming 3rd. Speaking after the race Ash Roberts said “ It was a good row and shows that if we keep improving we’ll certainly be in contention for some medals later on in the season.”
In the same 11:30 Division, Alice Mason was to enter her first single sculling race. Unfortunately her boat was missing a seat because of a mix-up at the boathouse. So, after a slight panic and some fluttering eyelashes she started the race with a very attractive green seat, courtesy of Walton Rowing club. The race went well and she recorded a very impressive time, overtaking many other singles in the process.
The 2:30pm division saw Alice race again but this time in a composite double with Meg Rolph, from The Kings School, Canterbury. Having never entered a race together they were pleasantly surprised to finish 2nd in their category, a brilliant achievement for a scratch crew.
Overall, the day went according to plan and everyone was happy with the last race of the year. New personal best times for all made for a positive end to the year before winter training camp in January.
Josh Blackledge
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