What a unique and empowering way to celebrate International Women’s Day on the river with 3500 women! The electric atmosphere and energy on the river and the banks were truly inspiring.
The weather was stunning, but we had lumpy, bumpy water and a headwind; we stood firm, fully aware of the day’s significance and the historical moment of the first wholly QBC crewed boat since 2015. We were not to be deterred.
This was our third outing as a crew, but as old friends and seasoned rowers led by the indomitable Simon Hunt, we had each other’s backs from the very start.
We marshalled close to QBC; 94 was our lucky number, which meant a short commute and little time marshalling—no time to idle or overthink.
We got off to a strong start, maintaining a steady rate of 29 throughout the race. The middle section was very choppy, making it tough going, but we didn’t falter. We powered through, staying on track with Simon calling for ten strong strokes from each bridge and along the island and with further calls for bow four to lift the boat out of the water!
The cheers and calls from the banks and boats fired us up and kept us going for the last gruelling 2k. Thank you, KHSBC senior girls. We heard you! We pushed through, and eight women have never been more pleased to pass under Putney Bridge, elated and exhausted. All credit goes to Simon, whose expert guidance drove us over the line. Despite the fatigue, his technical coaching on the return trip showed us that the boat has real promise for future races.
Cox Simon
Stroke Polly
7 Lorna
6 Kirsty
5 Millie
4 Sophie
3 Abi
2 Roberta
Bow Ainslie
