Page 75 - Bugle Spring 2024

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RIFLES OFFICER BOAT RACE
With Henley Regatta in full flow, it seemed fitting for the Regiment to bring the action closer to home. A boat race on the Thames. All four regular Battalions succeeded in submitting rowing eights in amongst what has been an especially busy period for the Field Army.
Experience within the boats was varied, with some having rowed at university but the vast majority having little or no experience. Training as teams was fraught with challenges, carting whoever was available on Wednesday sports afternoons to a rowing club.
The Cygnet Rowing Club (the Civil Service boathouse) in conjuncture with the London Rowing Club supported the event by providing the rowing eights, safety boat, coxes, and the viewing balcony for guests. The stage was set for an outstanding display of amateur sport!
Whilst the two-kilometre stretch of water between Hammersmith Bridge and the London Flagpole, Putney falls short
of the 6.8km of the Oxbridge Boat Race, to a novice rowing eight the distance is profound. The first race was between
the two sporting rivals from the previous year, 1 and 5 RIFLES, with 1 RIFLES looking to defend their title as the Boat Race champions. A close race saw 1 RIFLES
taking the win with a time of 7 minutes 32 seconds, ahead of 5 RIFLES by two boat lengths. A quick change over at the London Rowing Club, and 2 RIFLES and 3 RIFLES jumped in the boats and rowed back to Hammersmith bridge. 2 RIFLES convincingly winning over 3 RIFLES, with a time of 8 minutes 10 seconds. The overall winners, 1 RIFLES.
A triumph for amateur sport and truly excellent day well spent, one to be repeated next year.
A triumph for amateur sport and truly excellent day well spent, one to be repeated next year.
RIFLES The Bugle 75