A wet day today at Peterborough where rain started early in the morning and didn’t really stop until we were on the M11 on our way back home. The weather did not seem to deter anybody from racing though as the regatta was very well attended. It is great seeing things going back to normality after the last couple of years!
The small Poplar contingent began its participation with Paddy racing on the Masters F 1x. Despite having only recently recovered from Covid he had a very strong start and stayed ahead until about 600 meters. He unfortunately could not match the final push of his opponent from Chesterton RC and came in in second place. A hard fought race no doubt and hopefully a few more this year to come for him.
It was Dan’s turn on the time trial of the Masters C/D 1x. His time put him on the final an hour and a half later where he came 3rd.
Finally Bev and Bernarda raced on the Women Masters D 2x. Having waited under the rain and wind for a good while they were both shivering by the time the race started. It was surprising how painful it felt going from there to full on racing. Having been left behind on the first 250 meters by IPS/Lea they managed to set a consistent pace, catch up and win their race. In the end all the pain was worth it.
The emotions of the race were not over yet as our expert driver Dan had to take a train elsewhere and Paddy kindly agreed to assume that responsibility and drive the trailer back. Getting out of the parking area was an interesting challenge but working as a team we managed! A few hiccups while navigating back to London but in the end all went well and trailer, boats, car and rowers came back home in one piece. Overall another great day of racing. Thank you very much Dan and Paddy for driving the trailer and thank you Miggsy for coming and cheering! We all wish you a speedy recovery.
