Warrington Regatta enjoys bumper turnout

The early evening sun sparkling on the gently flowing River Mersey belied the true conditions of the Warrington Regatta, held on August 2nd. Earlier the 700m buoyed course had been subject to torrential downpours, and although contestants and spectators may have been soaked to the skin – spirits were never dampened as a full programme of magnificent racing continued uninterrupted throughout the day.

As well as the usual range of singles, doubles, fours and eights, the day also included the North of England mixed quad championships. This saw some strong contestants sprinting for victory including crews from Bradford, Hollingworth Lake and the hosts Warrington. Several crews had a number of races to get through to win their tankards such was the good turnout from the many clubs competing.

Warrington had prepared well for the forecast downpours with bankside umpires and launch crews all furnished with umbrellas, as well as the refreshments and barbecue safely under cover in the boathouse. There was a scare during the WJ13 single sculls when rolls of distant thunder crept closer and all eyes nervously waited for any sign of lightning – but fortunately it never materialised and the girls put in strong, if drenched performances.

There were strong performances from several clubs including Mersey RC. Matt Ward, Mersey RC Men’s Captain, said that many of the team had raced for the first time at the 2013 Warrington Regatta, and they were determined to do well one year on. 

Warrington, too, had plenty to celebrate, particularly with the success of their junior crews. 

Even though the event takes place each year during peak holiday period, the strong and varied turnout is a good indicator that the sport is in a very healthy condition and competition is flourishing. 

For more information visit www.wrc.commrich.net.

By Andrew Lowe
Photos: Andrew Archbold