The team from Toowong Rowing Club will compete against 45 other crews worldwide for the Rosie Mayglothling Trophy in the Henley Women’s Regatta 2024 in the U.K., starting with a time trial to narrow the field to 16.
This year, 46 crews will vie for the Rosie Mayglothling Trophy. The competition kicks off with a time trial on Friday morning, the 21st of June, which will reduce the field to 16 crews. These top 16 will then progress to side-by-side racing on Friday and Sunday, promising thrilling matches. While some international crews participate, the strong local competition heightens the event’s excitement.
Highlight: Toowong Rowing Club
Gabby Geldard and Jemima Powell represent the Toowong team. Jemima recently placed fourth in the U23 lightweight double category at the Australian Rowing Championships 2024. Gabby competed in the club double category, finishing fifth in the final. Their individual achievements highlight the strength and depth of Toowong RC, marking them as a duo to watch in the upcoming races.
Toowong Rowing Club (TRC) is a renowned rowing club. Established in 1889, TRC has a long and storied history, making it one of the oldest rowing clubs in Queensland. The club is situated on the Brisbane River, providing excellent rowing conditions and a scenic environment for training and competition.
Founded over a century ago, Toowong Rowing Club has played a significant role in the development of rowing in Australia. The club has produced numerous elite rowers who have gone on to compete at national and international levels, including the Olympics. TRC’s commitment to excellence in rowing has cemented its reputation as a leading club in the country.
Toowong Rowing Club has a strong track record of success in both national and international competitions. The club’s athletes regularly compete in major regattas, such as the Australian Rowing Championships and Henley Royal Regatta. In recent years, TRC rowers have achieved notable results, including podium finishes and national titles.
Other Competitors at the Henley Women’s Regatta
GSR Aegir (NED)
Umi Kuiphuis and Wietske Anema of GSR Aegir (Netherlands) are notable competitors. They secured second place in the lightweight double category at the Royal Holland-Beker 2024 and won gold at the ARB Forestbaan. Their consistent performance and recent successes position them as strong contenders for the trophy.
DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos (NED)
Another strong Dutch entry is the composite crew of Laura Kempen and Leonoor Bos from DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos. They took first place in the lightweight double category at the Royal Holland-Beker and won the lightweight development double category at ARB Forestbaan. Their proven track record in various competitions underscores their potential to excel at Henley.
Hartpury University & College
Ellie Dash and Millie Hurrel of Hartpury University & College have shown impressive form. Ellie won the intermediate A final at BUCs Regatta 2024 and the Championship A final at the Met Regatta. Millie set a new course record at the National Schools Regatta and competed at the European Rowing Championships. Their synergy and individual accomplishments make them formidable opponents.
De Montfort University
Hannah Milnes and Lizzie Webster from De Montfort University have also had a strong season. They finished fifth in the A final of the double sculls category at the Met regatta and competed at the Reading Amateur regatta. Their experience and teamwork are expected to give them a competitive edge.
Predictions
GSR Aegir and DSR Proteus-Eretes/HSRV Pelargos will likely battle it out in the semi-finals, with strong showings from Toowong RC and Hartpury University & College. Norwich RC and De Montfort University are also anticipated to perform well, given their successful season so far. The combination of seasoned athletes and emerging talent will make for a series of highly competitive races.
The Henley Women’s Regatta
Henley Women’s Regatta (HWR) is the premier regatta for female rowers in the United Kingdom, held annually on the iconic stretch of the River Thames at Henley. This prestigious event attracts more than 2,000 rowers from across the UK and around the world, offering exciting side-by-side match racing for a wide range of competitors, from juniors to university and club levels to international elite athletes.
Since its inception in 1988, HWR has become a significant event in the rowing calendar. It has run every year except 2020, showcasing the dedication and hard work of a vast team of volunteers, the generosity of the Copas family, and the support from Friends of Henley Women’s Regatta, sponsors, and local businesses. The regatta was one of the early adopters of live streaming for its races, enhancing its accessibility and popularity.
Henley Women’s Regatta 2024 promises to showcase top-tier rowing talent, with exciting races and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you are a rowing enthusiast or a casual spectator, the event offers a unique opportunity to witness the best in women’s rowing, set against the picturesque backdrop of the River Thames at Henley.
Published 20 June 2024