The OARSport Junior Sculling Head, Eton Dorney, 26th March

28th March, 2025

Boys J17 4x- : Ivor, Tom, Heath and Max. 
Girls WJ16 4x- : Annabel, Tallulah, Thea and Sophia.


On Wednesday, eight members of Minerva’s Junior squad travelled to a gloriously sunny Eton Dorney to compete in the highly anticipated ‘The Scullery’ event. With over junior 550 crews taking part, this thrilling head race challenged athletes with a 1900-metre race up the Olympic course, followed by a 90-second spin of the boat before racing back down the lake for a further 1900 metres. This unique format combines the endurance of a head race with the excitement and fast-paced energy of a regatta, making it an unforgettable experience for both rowers and spectators.

Both crews displayed remarkable guts and determination, maintaining stroke rates of at least 32 throughout their races. Their resilience kept them within contention of some of the toughest rowing schools in the country with the boys beating crews from Bradford, Lancaster and Canterbury. The girls’ crew demonstrated incredible skill and tenacity, powering through to overtake Streatham and Clapham High School, an impressive first-ever race for Thea.

As always, a huge thank you goes to the junior parents who supported the crew every step of the way – whether it was with an early 4:30 am start, providing flapjacks, or offering their cheers and encouragement along the course.