Miggsy’s Golden Haul Headlines Poplar’s Gutsy British Championship Performance

A standout performance from stalwart rower Robert “Miggsy” Milligan, who secured a remarkable three gold medals, was the crowning achievement for Poplar Rowing Club at a challenging British Rowing Masters Championships last weekend. His phenomenal success earned him a special mention in British Rowing’s official report of the regatta.

In a weekend marked by brutal racing conditions that tested the mettle of every athlete, Poplar’s crews demonstrated immense resilience and skill. The notoriously challenging course was battered by fierce headwinds and significant waves, leading to the highly unusual decision to abandon stake boat starts for fear of the conditions endangering the stake boat volunteers.

Miggsy’s triumphant weekend saw him clinch gold in the Open H Single Sculls, a victory that was noted in the national governing body’s daily write-up. He continued his winning streak as part of a victorious composite Masters H/I handicap coxless four and a dominant Masters H-J handicap quad scull, cementing an unforgettable regatta for the Poplar veteran.

While Miggsy was the club’s sole medalist, the entire Poplar contingent showcased the club’s competitive spirit at this high-level national event. In a heart-breakingly close race, the Poplar quad missed out on a bronze medal by a mere two seconds, a testament to the fierce competition and the challenging conditions.

The club has expressed immense pride in all its members who represented Poplar on the national stage.  “We are incredibly proud of everyone who raced at the British Champs. The conditions were some of the toughest we’ve seen, and to have our athletes competing at such a high level is a fantastic achievement.”, said Ben Glienicki, Poplar Captain, adding, “Miggsy’s triple gold is an phenomenal accomplishment and a true inspiration to everyone at the club. While it was gutting for the quad to miss out so narrowly, their performance, along with all our other crews, demonstrates the strength and determination that defines Poplar. We’ll be back next year, stronger and even more determined to bring home more medals!”