Saturday we raced at Reading and were placed in two events where we lost by one length each time to Kent School and WPI - frantic start and not a pushing base which created some challenges. Ended up making a rigging change and then rowing back in gorgeous weather through the locks. One of those rowing moments where you just say "I am so lucky to be here". Finally we had a wonderful dinner hosted by the Higgins family where we grilled out and had a blast.
Sunday we rowed twice in the afternoon - trying to improve our start and also find a better base speed - again good progress.
This morning we rowed a full distance 2000m piece with the Brunswick School piecing beside us to Fawley - on the third stroke of the start our seven man hit the stanchion with his blade and ended up getting knocked off his seat. We continued anyways and did a reasonable job. At least we have a good feel for the distance at rating. Will try and make it into London this evening for a show (Jersey Boys) and then back to Henley.
Tuesday we expect to piece against an Irish club crew from Galway over the Fawley distance. I hope we can have a cleaner start.
