When asked by Putney High School, who were pitched next to us, what our recipe was for creating such a fantastic event at the Henley Royal Regatta on Tuesday, our response was that we invited parents, past parents, and OBs, mixed them with a love of the school and rowing, added support for our crews, and then sprinkled it all with a touch of Pimm’s and lemonade. Et voila, it was our most successful and largest event at Henley to date!
Despite the early threat of rain, over 200 members of our community, including Olympic Rowing Gold Medallist Phelan Hill (87-97), joined us at the School and OB Club Drinks Reception for a glass (or two!) of Pimm’s. Prior to the reception, everyone gathered on the riverbank to cheer on the 1st VIII, who were drawn against a very strong Eton College Crew. Despite losing by a third of a length, the crew put in an excellent performance of which they should be extremely proud. Later in the day, it was the turn of the 2nd VIII, who were drawn against Oxford Brookes University. Again, despite a gallant effort, the crew, made up of 16, 17, and 18-year-olds, were no match for the university crew. This was the first time in recent history that both the 1st and 2nd VIII qualified for Henley, making it a really special day, especially for those boys and parents who were experiencing it for the first time. A full report on the crews and both races can be found here.
A number of OBs are also rowing for various clubs and universities throughout the week. A full list can be found here. We will report on their results in the next OB Club Newsletter.
Thank you to everyone who came along to support the boys and to shout their encouragement from the riverbank. It truly was a day to remember for everyone.
