On Sunday 24th March, VMBC went to HORR!
After a spicy marshalling, putting the Beach(ed) into “Beechy”, we powered under Chiswick bridge, settling into our rhythmic groove set by Matt, with Tommy’s assistance as we headed round to Barnes. Two unfortunate overtakes here spurred us on under Barnes bridge. Luckily, a surge of Mildert pride from our fans on Hammersmith bridge kicked us into action, rowing through three abreast, in apparently the most dramatic part of the race as viewed from Hammersmith. We endured the pain cave, reflecting on our journey, as the long-anticipated Fulham football stadium came into view. With 1k to go, we shifted up a gear for the final sprint. Exhausted but determined, we joined the hallowed chorus of Durham Colleges making their way up the tideway.
In the end, our time matched the average of the two previous Mildert crew times, placing us centrally within the Durham college boats and the Small Academic category, showcasing the strength of our young crew despite the turbulent few years for men’s squad. This crew has been as good as any Mildert boat before it, and I expect only growth from here.
A huge thank you to Andy, Fiona, Ellie Whiteside, Mum and Dad Matthews for their kindness and hospitality, and to all of our supporters at Hammersmith and beyond. Thanks to Dan, Andy, and TJ for their invaluable assistance. Special thanks to Claire for her ornithological inspiration and facilitation. Lastly, thanks to DARC for their unwavering support, without whom training for and competing at these tideway races would be a near impossibility.
Small Academic: 6th
Overall: 282nd