Avon County Head of the River Race 2011
Avon County Rowing Club held their 43rd annual Head Race on Saturday 5 March. Entry numbers were the largest in the event’s history with 290 crews and over 1000 competitors. Raced in 3 divisions over a 3000 metre course from Newbridge downstream to Saltford, boats from 30 schools, universities and rowing clubs took part. Avon County had also organised two short course divisions for novice rowers, some of whom were racing for the very first time.
Winners of the Head of the River title were the Bristol University eight, who in a very close local derby completed the course in a fast time of 10 minutes 7 seconds, beating Bath University into second place by just 8 seconds. The quickest school crew was the Canford eight, who finished in third place 10 seconds behind Bath.
Wycliffe College based at Stroud, who concentrate their effort on small boats, had the most wins with 8 titles in fours, quad sculls, double and single sculls. Second equal in the medal table with 4 wins each were Bristol University, Pangbourne College and the home club Avon County.
Race organiser Jim Dawson said afterwards, “This was a massively good day for the sport of rowing and Avon County handled the record entry very well. Coaches can bring their crews to our event knowing that there will be plenty of competition for their top boats with some of the best crews in the Southwest racing. At the same time they appreciate us running a safe, efficient, and hassle-free event for their youngsters who are new to the sport and may be racing for the very first time.”
Press Release Avon County Rowing Club
