Tideway Scullers has had a very active Autumn and despite the cancellation of most head races we had strong showings at Scullers Head, Pairs Head and Weybridge Silver Sculls. The Bernie Thompson was also well-attended despite “challenging” conditions, with all our squads and groups having scullers competing in the race.

To make up for the lack of head racing all squads/ groups travelled en masse to Dorney for a fixture against Marlow rowing club. A time trial was followed by side-by-side racing, both sides saw fierce competition, with Marlow taking most top spots in the time trials, and Scullers with lots of wins in the side by side! Both clubs had a really positive day, a great success all round, especially with the weather stopping most racing so far this season.

The Christmas Puddings saw 90 athletes in multiple mixed crew boats racing a time trial followed by hotly contested side by side racing across all squads - one race boasted an age range of nearly 60 years across both crews. The Claire Mac mixed 8+ sneaked in a win and came out victorious once again. A great day for the club with a wonderful atmosphere and everyone enjoying competitive on the water racing.

Scullers athletes also raced in America at the Head of the Charles, all athletes posting good results, topped by the JW placing 3 rd in their event. Congratulations to Rhona and the girls on a fantastic result.

This Autumn we have welcomed Luca Nicolaou, Club Coach, to the club, primarily supporting Willem with the Senior squad as he settles into his new role as Lead Senior Coach and also working with the JM and Richard (Junior Men’s coach). We have also welcomed many new athletes of all ages, with new athletes joining every squad and group.

Safety on the River

Everyone will have heard of the recent events up and down the Tideway involving various school and club boats hitting bridges and buoys etc., seriously damaging boats and putting athletes at risk. We have also had a few swimmers, never ideal in the winter months. Please do not be complacent. Risk assess your outing, especially over the holiday season when fewer athletes/ coaches are on the water, and support and rescue are less easily achieved. When in doubt, don’t go out.

Looking Ahead

We have the start of Eight’s season ahead and with lots of Head racing on the Tideway we are looking forward to more competitive events on our home stretch. Overseas camps planned for the Junior and Senior Squads for the Easter break with both going out to the Netherlands.

Annual club dinner 10th February, Dukes Meadows

Following a very successful event last year, Social secretary Jamie Priestley is organizing a return to this venue with George Bourne, Scullers alumnus and GB men’s quad athlete, speaking to help us celebrate Olympic year, Paris 2024. Tickets are now on sale, £70 to the TSS bank account, ref 2024, DINNER If you can help Jamie with this event please contact socialsec@tidewayscullers.com Jamie also plans to ask squads and groups to run quiz evenings and suggest other club gatherings. Do get in touch with any ideas!

It has been a great start to the 23/24 season! Wishing everyone a great festive holiday

All the very best,

Mia Donn Captain

Fiona Betts Vice Captain

Scullers Christmas Update