Susannah Barnett, Worcester
Roving reporter Ben Marsden (Marlow, PR3) shared this account of this maiden para-event for Worcester Rowing Club.
- “Despite the delayed start, racing ran smoothly and the adaptive events were integrated into the racing schedule. Some delays were created by the Masters/Senior events but umpires were flexible and allowed adaptive athletes to queue jump to avoid getting cold or distressed. Racing was reasonably close and everyone seemed to have a good race and be happy with the result. Steering was a challenge towards the end of the day but as crews were well matched all athletes could be guided down by a launch. Safety boats were brilliant and organisers flexible enough to allow capsized athletes to race their events. The venue and river was nice. Commentator and crowds could easily be heard and added to the buzz of the race.”
Home river competitor and para-promoter Susannah Barnett shared her perspective as host:
- “A milestone has been passed – Today saw the first range of para rowing events included in Worcester summer Regatta. Crews came from Stratford , Marlow, Maidenhead and of course Worcester. I do really have to thank especially the Marlow and Maidenhead crews who traveled a considerable distance just to support our regatta and what we were aiming to do after many years of trying. I am humbled by you helping me make it finally happen. Congratulation to Ben Marsden Marlow eventual winner of 1x . And Mark Saunders of Stratford, eventual winner of supported 2x, and for those who won heats in between. I also thank Worcester Rowing Club for getting behind this initiative and really hope it continues to build on this start and the future we can look forward to welcoming further para athletes to the club.”
Congratulations to the event winners (see photo directly below):
- Adaptive 1x – Mark Saunders, Stratford-Upon-Avon
- Adaptive 2x – Ben Marsden, Marlow and Katinka Ernst, Worcester
