Avon Autumn Head, 16th November

17th November, 2024

Masters Women eight

Due to a couple of last minute illness sit ins, the Masters Women were happy to just be able to line up for the start of the Avon Autumn head this weekend. The scratch crew had a total of 10 mins practice on the way to the start before, after a short wait, turning to race.

The race plan was simple (thank you to Andy and Elaine for your support) and Lorna lead the crew through it – getting up to speed for the start then sitting into our race rhythm as we went under the new bridge. We settled in and enjoyed testing ourselves on our stretch of river. It was a strong performance – long and strong all the way – and Lorna’s racing line at the bridge was exceptional! Huge thanks to Ching, Katrina and Lorna for stepping in or changing roles at the last minute. Thanks also to all the Minerva supporters on the route – we heard you all and really appreciated the boost from every shout of encouragement, and for all the videos shared afterwards!

Report by Jacqui Lindsley

Masters Men

(Bideford Amateur Athletic Club v Minerva)
10:45am long course op Mas EF 4X+
Juliet P (4), Tim W (3), Brodie (2), Robert O ( 1), Sue S coxing Boudicca.
Calm river, overcast. Never met competition before. Good start and strong middle section of pushes chasing down the boat that set off just before us. 1st place win to Minerva by 57 seconds (adjusted to 38 after handicap). Out of 10 Minerva crew entries to all the races this day, this was the only Minerva club win!

(Avon County Masters D v Minerva)
1:45pm long course op Mas DE 4+
Simon D (4), Andy S (3), Brodie (2), Francis H ( 1), Sue S coxing Quin.
A steady good row pushing a heavy load (approx. 580kg crew and boat).
Two crew subs due to injuries. 2nd place for Minerva. Lots to analyse from video clips taken from the bank.

Report by Brodie McAllister