The WMasD quad of Jennie Elsmore, Rachel Booth, Juliet Cassidy, and Maria Cruz represented Quintin Boat Club at Hammersmith Regatta, racing in boat 120. It was the first time the crew had raced together, the first time a QBC womens’ masters crew had entered and Jennie’s first-ever regatta.
Conditions were calm and overcast, providing good racing water. The race got off to a dramatic start when, around 50 metres in, the crew struck a large submerged log, forcing the race to be stopped and restarted.
On the restart, Fulham Reach Boat Club made a faster start, but Quintin settled quickly and worked hard to close the gap. Maria steered strongly and confidently, responding to two umpire flags to move the boat cleanly across the course. The crew kept the pressure on throughout the middle section, holding their opposition to a tight race.
In the final push, Fulham Reach edged ahead and took the win by half a length.
Despite the result, it was a determined and encouraging performance from a newly formed crew, laying strong foundations for the season ahead.
Words by Jennie Elsmore
