Clarendon, Grey rowers start off well

GREY High and Clarendon Girls took the major honours as teenage rowers had their first taste of competition in the Grey U14 regatta at Redhouse at the weekend.

Fortunately, the threat of a blustery day did not materialise on the Swartkops River, as many of the participants' careers in the sport span only a few weeks.

The U14 crews from St Andrew's, Selborne, ZRC, Grey and Clarendon enjoyed a day of fun competition and a chance to test their skills as these young rowers do not compete in the Buffalo Regatta, which starts tomorrow in East London.

There were many officials assisting on the water as the first crews set off for the start – at this level its often a case of who stays upright, wins the race! But on the whole the racing was of a good standard.

As the first crews were getting aligned at the start, one of the umpires was heard to remark that it was a bit like "herding cats" but, despite all this, the regatta ran on time.

Grey's octopul team rowed a splendid race against the Selborne octo, with both teams looking strong. Sheer strength and will on the Grey boat held sway in the end.

The U14A boys' quads race was won by St Andrew's, with Grey coming in second.

The U14A boys doubles was won by Grey, followed by ZRC.

In the girls' division, the sculls went to Clarendon, as well as the girls A doubles. They also came up against the boys in a few races and were not disgraced.

Grey ended the day claiming the Victor Lodorum Cup, with Clarendon taking the girls' honours.

The points tally was: boys: 1 Grey 41, Selborne 19, ZRC boys 12, St Andrews College 8; girls: 1 Clarendon 22, 2 ZRC 4.