A merry band of Curlew Development Squad and Seniors arrived at St Neots in glorious sunshine on Saturday 22nd July, excited for a weekend of racing and festivities. Over the course of the first day Curlew raced in the Open 2x, Mixed 2x, W 2-, W.Eli.1.4+, W.Eli.2.4+, Eli.1.4+, W.8+ and Eli.2.8+ (no easy categories for the Dev Squad!).
However, as the weather began to turn, so did Curlew’s fortunes. Despite reaching three semi-finals and two finals, alas Curlew was unable to convert any victories. Disheartened, we sheltered from the pouring rain in the comforts of the marquee disco…
A night of merriment featuring some very questionable shapes, plenty of boogieing with the Otters and an impressive Dirty Dancing lift. Everyone was of course wrapped up in their tents ready for another day of competitive racing by 10pm sharp.
Day two was busy again, with entries in Eli.2.8+, Eli.1.4+, W 4+ and W.Mas.BC.1X. Again the heavens opened, and sadly remained open for most of the day. The women’s four narrowly (1/2 length) lost their semi-final whilst Anita was the victim of a handicap error in the single. But then, in the penultimate race of the day, the men’s four managed to fend off Norwich RC to win the Band 1 Elite Fours category. Alex’s first regatta pot and at least a pleasant note to end the weekend on!
As boats were trailered and tents put down, the mindset was clear. Despite a fun weekend with plenty of racing, Curlew would definitely be bringing their A game to Oxford City.
