Hexham Rowing Club Masters crews took on the iconic 1,000m course at Henley-on-Thames, racing side by side between the booms in knockout competition, where only the winner progressed to the next round.
The Women’s Masters C Quad of Catherine, Elizabeth, Suzanne and Shor were first on the water against neighbours Tyne ARC. In a thrilling opening race, they edged victory by just half a length to set up a semi-final against Fulham. The Hexham crew produced an even stronger performance, winning by five lengths to book their place in Sunday’s final against an Exeter/Walton composite crew. They rowed another composed race to claim victory by 1.5 lengths and bring the Henley medals home to Hexham.
In the Masters I Single, George enjoyed an excellent semi-final against Wallingford, pulling away to win by 3.5 lengths and secure a place in the final. Sunday’s temperatures remained in the mid-30s as he faced Upper Thames Rowing Club. George finished runner-up, but reaching and competing in a Henley final was a superb achievement.
The Women’s Masters B Double of Elizabeth and Shor raced a straight final against Upper Thames Rowing Club. Despite limited preparation together, they rowed well and finished as runners-up.
For a club the size of Hexham, having three crews reach Henley Masters Regatta finals was an outstanding achievement.
Also racing under Tyne ARC colours were Stu, Kev and Ben. Kev and Ben enjoyed a strong run in the Masters F Coxed Four, reaching the semi-finals. Stu competed in both the Masters C Coxless Four and Masters B Eight, with both crews putting in competitive performances but narrowly missing out on progression.
The sun blazed throughout the weekend, with temperatures soaring into the mid-30s. Spirits remained equally high, and the fantastic northern camaraderie between Tyne ARC, Hexham and Tees made for a superb weekend of racing.
Until next year…