Henley Hat-trick for Will
The U23 Lightweight 4- crew of Jamie Kirkwood (Imperial College and formerly Durham School/ Cambois), Dave Jones and Jonno Clegg (Leander) and Will Fletcher (Durham University and Tyne United)… began their Henley Royal campaign as one of two seeds along with Leander A, a heavyweight crew with over 3 stones per man in their favour. Placed on different sides of the draw both crews convincingly fought their way into Sunday’s ‘Visitor’s Cup’ final, beating off opposition from Molesey, Dart Totness, Thames Tradesmen, Upper Thames/Wallingford, Mitsubishi Japan, Galway/Muckross Ireland, San Fernando Argentina and ANA/Swan River Australia. A strong headwind on Sunday morning appeared to favour the heavy boys and as the proposed 2.40 start was delayed by a champagne bottle bobbing around mid course, the tension built. After a ten minute delay the race began but as the lightweights surged forward through rough water into the expected early lead, two crabs temporarily slowed their pace giving them their slowest time of the regatta to the barrier by several seconds. Regaining their composure, the boys gradually stretched their lead further while spectators awaited the Leander crew’s expected response as they got into their stride. The headwind remained but the lightweights were not going to be caught, stayed ahead throughout and raced faultlessly to a two length victory and appreciative applause.
This makes three Henley Royal wins for 20 year old Will in three consecutive years, also three for Dave and two consecutive wins for Jonno. Impressive to say the least! More photos are on the ‘Gallery‘ page (scroll down to the bottom of the page).
