By Miss Harris (Head Rowing Coach)
This past Sunday, 86 BGS rowers participated in Star Head, hosted by Star Club on our local river.
The J14s started their racing journey, cheered enthusiastically by supporters on the bank, and assisted by their J15 teammates.
Each week the boat club runs junior (J14 and J15) and senior (J16, J17, and J18) battle paddling sessions which are a highlight of the programme. These mixed-crew sessions offer an invaluable opportunity for rowers to develop skills in various roles within the boat, improve communication, and focus on the fundamentals. They also offer a space for teamwork to naturally develop.
For the J14s’ first race, replicating the familiar format of their battle paddling sessions was a natural choice. It provided a structured introduction to racing dynamics before they gain full independence at events in the new year. This approach lays a strong foundation for both technical and personal development, ensuring they’re well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
The J15s then went on to race in 8s to practise the sweep rowing that they have been learning with Mr Moss and Miss Moore.
The Seniors raced in 8s before splitting into fours and quads, securing wins in each. One of these senior combinations is set to represent BGS at Fours Head next week on the Tideway.
We hope all rowers and supporters enjoyed the day as much as we did. It was fantastic to witness the team’s efforts and even see some sibling and cousin doubles take to the water!
Upcoming Events
This weekend, the Friends of BGS Boat Club will host a social morning at the boathouse from 10.00am - 12.00pm for Year 9 - Upper Sixth parents. This is a great opportunity for you to meet other rowing parents, and to find out more about the rowing community whilst also seeing the rowers out in action in their training session.
Following this, there is a Club Session from 12.15pm - 2.00pm, where Year 7 and 8 rowers are invited to join the Year 9- Upper Sixth rowers on the water. Parents and siblings are welcome to come and watch.