Student rowers enjoy UIRS 2014 success

With just the outstanding GB Trial results left to come, the top of this year’s UIRS is set to feature the biggest ever spread of University clubs, in this the 4th year of the annual event.

More than 1500 students from 58 University clubs competed in the 2014 Series, at 12 events around the UK. This year also featured the first jointly-hosted event (UWE and Bristol University Boat Clubs), alongside first-time hosts Stirling Boat Club, Scotland, and Salford Boat Club in the North West.

In what was the closest event in this year’s Series, Southampton Solent’s Beginner Women’s event included a three-way tie for 3rd place – Robyn Louise (Southampton), Jessica Behennah and Megan Derbyshire (Solent) all recording 3.53.3 over 1000m. 

In other events, Marius Rutkevicius from Hull has so far managed to see off all challengers for the Open Men’s title, posting his table-topping time of 6.09.1 at the UIRS event in Sheffield – the largest event in the country with over 270 competitors racing on the day.

St Mary’s University also held a successful event this year, in honour of Bethan O’Brien – a rower at the club who passed away over the summer.  

2013 has not only seen an increase in the number of university clubs taking part in the Series, but also a significant increase in quality in all events of classifications. Take a look at the current standings and specific event results at www.britishrowing.org/UIRS2013. Photos from several events can be found on the British Rowing Facebook page.

For University clubs not yet registered for BUCS points, the series is still open for entry on BUCScore clubs are advised to check with their respective AU/SU to confirm entry’s.