National Schools’ Regatta 2019

The National Schools’ Regatta is the opportunity for the National level team rowers to compete against the best school and club crews from across the country. This year King’s was represented by 112 athletes as the club raced in events ranging from the J14 octuples to the senior boys 1st VIII. It was a hugely successful three days for the club, with many highlights. On day one, the pick of the J14 & J15 crews were the boys J14 1st octuple, who after qualifying in strong form, continued to challenge the top crews, eventually finishing on the medal podium in third place with a bronze medal.

Day two started with an incredible run from the club as every one of the eight school crews, seven VIIIs and a coxed four qualified for the semi-finals, the club standard for racing at National Schools’. The club marquee abounded with club parents, supporters and alumni and it was an inspiring afternoon as crew after crew from King’s raced past in their semi-finals and then respective finals. Highlights of the day included the boys 1st VIII finishing 4th in the Championship B final, an overall finish position of 12th in their category. The J16 girls 2nd VIII rowed two fantastic races to finish with a gold medal in their category. Both the girls J15 VIII and boys J16 coxed four narrowly missed out on a place in the A final, both crews finally finishing in 7th place overall in their categories.

On the third day of the regatta, the crews break down into smaller boat combinations. From the fours and pairs racing from King’s, the highlight of the day was the Championship boys coxless pairs, both pairs qualifying for the A final, which in itself is a great feat for the club. Both pairs pushed the pace but it was the crew of Will Meakin and Aron Varbiro which found themselves in 2nd place with just 250 metres to go, after racing with a level of commitment which will inspire future KSRC rowers the boys received a tough run of bad luck in the last 250 metres, narrowly missing out on a medal in 4th place, a tough result but an inspiring performance.

NSR’19 will be remembered for so many reasons for King’s, the fabulous marquee and support, inspiring rows, medals and the Saturday morning when every club boat qualified.  Throughout the weekend the athletes performed to their best abilities, the supporters and parents were in fine voice and the coaching team once again worked hard to support and inspire their athletes. The King’s School Rowing Club at the National Schools’ Regatta is a team performance, and one that every member of the team this year was proud to be a part of.