Brighton & Hove Regatta

ONE NIL TO THE VETS

The first Regatta of the season has now come and gone and the dust (Well Water!) has settled. The day started as per the forcast with a steady North-Westerly wind with relatively calm waters. It was not to remain that way however with the wind steadliy backing to the South-West making the sea quite bouncy.

The first race for our rowers was the Junior sculls final with an un-usually short field and a straight final. A good start from the two Folkestone scullers lead by Captain Marc Aldermand and followed Craig Hoveman. Marc seemed to be doing well with Craig not far behind to the turn's followed by the race to the finish. Marc crossing the line second and Craig Fourth.


The next race with Folkestone interest saw Marc and Craig in the Senior pairs event. Craigs normal pairing partner was working and Marc stepped in to take on the opposition. The race being closely contested by Herne Bay and Bexhill, The latter who won by a foot were followed by the Folkestone Pair gaining a credible 5th place.

Next up was the Ladies Pair of Sally and Sophie Watkins. Sophies is away at University at the moment so there is not much oppertunity for them to train together. The Started well and were up with the leaders. Holding 3rd position for the duration of the race. Well Done Ladies!


Marc was again afloat for the Senior sculls and started well in the leading pack. Rowing up a status is always tricky and the best of the racers gradually pulled away as the race went on. Last years champions, Mark Mitchell leading the field for a comfortable victory.

The sea was increasing and with it the turn of the veteran fours. Folkestones CARA and South Coast champions were drawn towards the outside. This is what the crew had been preparing for all winter and started on the forfront of the race. Folkestone seemed to have a reasonable lead but the turns were a little unfavorable and the turned closley with Worthing. This made for an interesting race home but the training paid off and the Folkestone crew won by a few lengths. Well done Simon, Steve, Tim, Matt and cox Nathan!!

The Vets crew were soon in action again taking part in the Senior fours. There was a strong field which included last years two CARA bowl crews. An altercation at the turns between Bexhill and Herne Bay saw the race stopped and all return to the start for a re-row. The race was again hotly contested with last years champions the eventual winners from the own B crew in second place. Folkestone Vets comming in 4th place earning good points for the club.


Last but not least was the turn of the Folkestone Novice Pair Mark and Nathan inthe Junior event, The sea by this stage was very tricky with a Hrene Bay pair tipping out before the race started! Nathan and Mark started well and were in second place at the turns. Unfortuantly they dropped a few places but rowed well to come fourth.
Thanks to Steve for towing the boats.

Watch this space for the latest updates on what is happening in the club and on the rowing scene.