SBC at Henley ... 1974

Stourport Boat Club's Wyfold Four were unlucky to encounter a strong Nottigham and Union crew in their first race, but nevertheless produced a very creditable performance against this experienced four. Stourport had been training for the previous week at Henley being paced by their Britannia Cup Four who had been eliminated by a strong Henley Rowing Club crew.
The race itself saw Stourport lead away from the stake boats, but the crews were level by the end of the island. Giving away a stone and a half per man, Stourport were at a disadvantage in the strong head wind, but at the barrier were still in contact, Nottingham having a lead of 3/4 length - time 2.11; by Fawley which is approximately half way, Nottingham had increased their lead to 1 3/4 lengths, their time of 3.43 being the second fastest of the day in this event. The last half of the course saw Nottingham double this lead, finally winning by 3 1/3 lengths in 8.00, third fastest in the event. Stourport's approximate time of 8.10 would of beaten over half of the winners on the first day. Nottingham then went on to beat Midland Bank easily, Lady Mrgaret's Boat Club by 3 3/4 lengths, and Vesta by 1 length to put them in the final against Prcellian Boat Club U.S.A. who won the event by 2 lengths.
Both Stourport crews really enjoyed their week's rowing and have benefitted from the concentrated training. The coxless four wil go on to the National Rowing Championships at Nottingham next weekend.
Wyfold Four: bow and steers, P.Graetz; 2, P.Lloyd; 3, T.Edwards; stroke, R.Lloyd.
Britannia Four: bow, M.Edmonds; 2, P.Lashford; 3, K.Barwise; stroke, P.Downes; cox, C.Reeley.
Stourport's first Novice Four were unlucky to lose the final of their event at Penarth Regatta two weeks ago. This brings Stourport's total of unsuccessful finals to a staggering 14 this season.
R. Lloyd Report July 1974