Rowing: Hard work worthwhile as veterans make history

May 30 2008 Chester Chronicle

MONTHS of gruelling training paid off for Royal Chester Rowing Club as they celebrated an historic first on the River Thames.

Hands may have been blistered and joints sore, but the sense of achievement in being the first recorded crew to have navigated a racing eight – which is more than 55ft long – from Lechlade to Putney Bridge overrode any pain they may have been experiencing.

The crew – made up of veteran rowers – completed their 135-mile, three-day challenge just after 6pm last Tuesday, bringing to an end six months of training and fitness preparation.

One of the event’s organisers, Nigel Burgess, said: “It has proved to be a real success, with a dozen veteran rowers proving something to themselves about their stamina and capabilities, and a dozen charities benefiting substantially from their endeavours.

“All the long hours of training in cold, wet and windy conditions on difficult parts of the River Dee proved their worth and paid off when we tackled the Thames.”

He added: “The pain of the rowing faded quickly as we crossed the finishing line at Putney. It was a wonderful and very worthwhile experience – one not to be forgotten and one only achievable with the tremendous help given by our support team.”

The benefit of bright and dry weather was balanced by breezy conditions and some strong headwinds on the Thames, creating choppy water which made progress that much tougher. But the helpful cooperation of the Thames lock keepers and advice from the two experienced river guides – Brian and Ann Colborne, accompanying the crew in their pilot launch – ensured the hazards of the journey were minimised.

The rowers expect to reach their fundraising target of £15,000 and the money will go to the Royal Chester Rowing Club’s charitable trust fund and the NeuroMuscular Centre at Winsford, together with all the other charities and good causes chosen by the crew.

Mr Burgess added: “Our thanks go to all those kind and encouraging supporters who have donated so freely and generously to our charities and good causes.”