The sun shone and the conversation flowed at the Annual Drinks Reception at Henley Royal Regatta on Tuesday 28th June. It was an excellent opportunity for OBs, parents and past parents to get together again and catch up over a glass of Pimms or two before the 1st VIII race. A special thank you to those who made the trip from overseas and took time out of their busy schedule to join us.
Following the reception, spectators cheered from the Stewards’ Enclosure as our 1st VIII took on a very tough Shiplake College crew in The Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup. Although our boys were unable to beat them, they definitely gave it their best shot. It was great to see a real mix of ages gathered to enjoy the truly unique experience that is Henley Royal Regatta…we look forward to welcoming you all again next year!
We were delighted to see a number of Old Bedfordians racing at the Regatta (see full list below). Josh Lyon (10-20), racing for Reading University Boat Club, reached the final of The Prince of Wales Challenge Cup for men’s quads, losing to a much-fancied Leander Club. Next up for Josh, is the Home Counties International, where he will be representing England in the single scull and the men’s open squad.
On the international front, it was great to see Benedict Eggeling (14-17) racing in the German national eight at the recent World Rowing Cup held in Lucerne, Switzerland. Benedict picked up a bronze medal and is now looking forward to the World Championships in September which, this year, are in Račice, Czech Republic.
If you are a keen rower and would like to join the Old Bedfordians Boat Club – Phoenix, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Phoenix Captain of Boats, George Christian (08-18) georgechristian0@gmail.com.
Other OBs racing at Henley included:
- Ben Giles (13-20) represented the University of Bristol Boat Club in The Temple Challenge Cup on the Tuesday.
- Rory Boylen (17-19) represented Invicta Rowing Club in The Thames Challenge Cup on the Wednesday
- Tom Christian (08-18) and Trent Abraham (10-19), who were in the same crew, represented Reading University ‘B’ in The Prince of Wales Challenge Cup on the Tuesday.
