Success at the inaugural J15 Open British Rowing Virtual Championships

Written by Director of Rowing, David Blackham

The British Rowing inaugural Virtual Championships were held on the weekend of 27-28 June. A unique opportunity for rowers to taste competition and to test their summer fitness and progress. Rowers from the King’s School Rowing Club were involved in a range of events and featured in the A finals in their level of competition.

Fergus McKeown (J14), racing in his first year of rowing reached the A final of the J14, 500 metre sprint event, finishing in a very respectable 10th place. Nathan Wilmot (J16) and Giorgio Poletti (J16) both reached the A final in the 500 metre sprint, finishing in 10th and 17th place respectively. Marcus Thornton (J12) raced in the year 7 event, finishing in a fantastic 8th place – well done, Marcus! 

Luke Dillon (J15) produced an exceptional performance to be crowned the J15 boys champion. Racing in a highly competitive category, Luke was pushed the whole way by Tees Rowing Club athlete Tod Manners. In a thrilling final, Luke was able to take the title by the smallest of margins, with both athletes producing their best performance of the championships. For Luke, this was the culmination of an exceptional season of progress and hard work, Luke has trained with determination and focus. This is a fine achievement and one to be proud of, British Rowing J15 Virtual Champion. Congratulations Luke!