Marathon rowers brave fierce winds in Boston

More than 400 rowers took part in the 2013 Boston Rowing Marathon on Sunday, despite incredibly challenging weather conditions on the River Witham.

In all, some 435 rowers took part in the annual event – battling stiff cross and headwinds for the entire 31-mile course, between Lincoln and Boston.

Crews from as far afield as Philadelphia made up the 169 entries, with 162 crews successfully completing the famously gruelling challenge.

Newark RC’s IM1 octuple finished with the fastest time, arriving at X in three hours, 35 minutes and 15 seconds – almost three hours quicker than the slowest-finishing crew on the day.

Stratford Upon Avon Boat Club sent a sizable contingent of rowers to Boston, winning three categories – the IM2 Coxed Fours, Junior Doubles and 50-55yrs Single Sculls.

“That was tough, with a headwind throughout,” said Ken Stirling, who set a new course record in the 50-55yrs Single Sculls catergory ahead of fellow SuABC rower Paul Hazelwood. “At least this year I stayed in the boat, and didn’t have to swim most of the way!”

Results from the 2013 Boston Rowing Marathon are now available at www.bostonrowingclub.co.uk.