Another weekend, another day of racing. On Sunday the 26th of February seven UCLBC crews returned to the Thames to race at UH Head against all the other University of London colleges. Successes of the day were numerous, as UCLBC established itself as the top college within the University of London.

At 3.6km from Pink Lodge to Chiswick Pier, the course of UH Head was slightly shorter than we are used to, but on a stretch of the Thames with which we are more than familiar. So too are we familiar with the Thames’ washy water and ocean-like waves, though that is not to say that we enjoy racing through such conditions. The Senior Women took to the water first, battling through wind and rain to finish in a time of 14.58; the second fastest women’s time of the day, beaten only by the UL 1st VIII and finishing ahead of their 2nd VIII. The Senior Women were also the winners of their category. Not long later came the turn of the Novice Girls, whose 2nd VIII finished 3rd in their category. The 3rd VIII followed, placing 4th in what was their first ever race.

Competitors in the afternoon were fortunate enough to see calmer water and a sprinkling of sunshine. In the novice category, the two boys crews placed 1st and 2nd, proving themselves to be considerably stronger than their novice counterparts. The Senior IV raced well to finish 2nd in their category, but it was the Senior Men’s VIII who were to end the day in true UCLBC domination. Achieving the fastest time of the race the Men’s 1st VIII avenged their loss of the Allom Cup in style.

UCL’s success at UH Head gives us further confidence when going into those bigger races. Until then, we continue training, improving and achieving excellent results.