Successful Summer Rowing Camps

Over the course of two weeks, more than 100 budding new and current rowers, girls and boys aged 13 – 18, attended Shiplake’s residential summer rowing camps. For many, the camps prove to be a highlight of the summer holidays. There seemed like no better place to be; the sun shone throughout the two weeks and the camps incredible proximity to the Thames was a real benefit.

The rowing camps have been running extremely successfully since 2015. Current pupils from the College and members of the local community had access to the College’s enviable fleet of boats and our highly experienced and professional coaches.

A real draw to the camp was the residential option. Pupils will be able to enjoy a variety of evening activities with their friends, whilst rowing throughout the day. This year evening activities included bowling, laser-quest, a cinema trip and, a favourite of the pupils, dinner at the famous Leander Rowing Club.

Pupils who had prior experience were firstly put out into small boats to test their skills on the river, to allow coaches to plan their training over the course of the week. The middle of the week saw the intermediate and advanced groups row from Shiplake through two locks to the famous Henley Royal Regatta course. After a picnic lunch at Upper Thames Rowing Club they rowed back to the College.

Throughout the week novices had to undergo a capsize drill test before they were allowed on the water. Once they passed, they were taught the basics, starting out in bigger more stable boats, then progressing into smaller boats after finding the confidence. This enabled all of the pupils to mix on the camp and take part in the final part of the week, the exciting camp regatta.

The camp regatta was the finale of the week. Pupils of varying levels of previous experience, rowed together in crews to race against one another. Family and friends were warmly welcomed to come and support. The event provided the pupils with the opportunity to show their families the superb progress they made over the week.

Mr Keith Settle, Director of Summer Camps, commented: ‘It was great to have so many pupils over the two weeks, who all got involved in every aspect of the camp. A big thank you goes to the coaches; we are looking forward to next year’s camps already!’