An impressive display of Blue Star domination injects some midweek success into Newcastle University’s efforts for victory in the annual varsity competition, Stan Calvert.
On Wednesday 14th February, 2.30 pm, two women’s intermediate quads from the rival teams, Northumbria University Boat Club and Newcastle University Boat Club (NUBC, The Blue Star), lined up side by side to race one kilometre to the steps of Newcastle University’s boathouse- on the banks of Newburn.
The crew racing for Newcastle consisted of freshers Fiona Chestnutt (Stroke), Sofia Turner (Three), Lucy Stanhope (Two) and second year Lydia Davis, at bow. Having only raced together once before at Tyne United Head, the crew were unsure as to how they would fare against Northumbria, a crew rumoured to be significantly established. However, the NUBC crew attacked the race from the start, moving away from Northumbria in the first ten strokes, then going on to gain clear water in the first 250 metres.
10 strokes gained in the first 250m
The crew managed to soak up as much home advantage as is possible in rowing, racing down the home straight they train on everyday. They gained a surge in speed as they approached the steps, to be greeted by the cheers of many supporters.
The verdict could only be described as ‘easy’- a seamless victory for Newcastle. The conditions were received well by both the supporters and rowers, those racing were able to enjoy flat and fast water, racing with the stream, and the supporters enjoyed the sunshine, hinting that summer may be approaching Newcastle.
It is very exciting to see what these girls can achieve this year in the forthcoming summer racing season. NUBC can proudly list the Victor Ludorum at BUCs Regatta 2016 as one of their achievements, this event being one of the most important on the university racing calendar.
Hopefully this year, these girls can contribute to maintaining this title, as they are also part of a developing lightweight team, which has huge potential for success.