Rain was predicted for the weekend and rain was delivered, but it was much less intense than for the Newcastle regatta three weeks ago. The rain limited itself to Saturday, and as it faded the wind came up, blowing across the river, although the water stayed calm giving perfect rowing conditions. The same couldn’t be said for Sunday which started with a brisk breeze blowing down the course. The intensity of the wind steadily increased during the first hour giving white caps rolling down lanes 1 and 2 into which most crews were forced by the difficult conditions. The regatta had to be called off after only 16 of the 60 races had been conducted.

34 Endeavour crews started over the 2 days (in reality only 1¼ days) for 6 wins, 9 seconds and 7 thirds. Marg Churton, Fiona Webb and Tony Chadwick stood out with 2 wins each. It was great to see Digby Rayward get his first win in 2 years (I’m told he has been training hard in the gym). The coach was particularly impressed with our 3 winning quads – their smooth style was a pleasure to behold.

Winning crews:
Womens Masters Single Scull: Lindy Nisbett.
Mens Masters Single Scull: Digby Rayward.
Womens Masters Quad Scull: Lizel Rossouw, Myff Lawrie, Marg Churton, Fiona Webb.
Womens Seeded Quad Scull: Katrina Whiteley, Marg Churton, Fiona Webb, Diana Trescott.
Mens Seeded Quad Scull: Tony Chadwick, Chris Bonomini, Prentice Bond, Alex Brueton.
Mixed Masters Quad Scull: Tony Chadwick + composite.