The summer holiday proved very busy for pupils involved in rowing, experiencing significant sporting events such as the Henley Royal Regatta, and spending time on the river training together. The J16 crew, having pitched themselves against the best in the country in June in the Under 16 Great Britain trials, got through with a convincing win, earning selection to represent their country in a match against France. During the summer, the coxless four travelled to London in order to represent Great Britain, facing crews who had crossed the channel to row in the event.
Having dominated the national trials, Seb Newman, Christian Hjortland-Marks, Henry Blois-Brooke and Hugo Oglina joined a GB squad of 15 crews in the match, which was held at the Royal Albert Docks in London. Making an impressive start to their GB careers, the Shiplake College rowers achieved victory over France. Shiplake’s achievement helped their country to a comprehensive 12-3 defeat of their rivals from across the channel, much to the delight of the watching Headmaster Mr Gregg Davies, and Director of Rowing Mr David Currie.
The boys were delighted with their performance and the hard work that they had been putting in, in order to gain such a result. They were also thrilled with the opportunity to participate in an international event, and hope that the competition will be the first of many events where they represent Great Britain. Mr Currie commented: ‘it was a proud moment for the boys, their parents and the school when they pulled on the GB kit for the first time. I am very pleased that they put in such a strong performance, and I have every confidence that the boys will continue to represent their country over the years to come.’
