15/03/2026
(A very dramatic) WEHoRR 2026 Race Report
The crew kicked off the WEHoRR weekend with a sleepover at Sophie’s lovely house. Huge thanks to Sophie and her dad for hosting and fuelling us before the big day. However, little did they know how eventful the next day would be.
Race day itself looked almost suspiciously perfect: warm sunshine, blue skies, and those fluffy clouds that make you briefly believe rowing is actually pleasant. Everything seemed to be going exactly to plan. Thanks to Anna, the mother figure in the boat, everyone was well looked after.
That was, however, until boating.
The wiring to the coxbox had decided to go MIA, meaning only stern 4 could (just about) hear Martha. After a quick round of repair attempts from the umpires, instead of scratching, the crew made the bold tactical decision to race without a functioning coxbox mic. Coxing calls from Martha were relayed via 5, 6 and 4 to bow pair, while Clem’s tech calls from bow somehow reached the entire boat without a mic. A cox material ended up in bow jail [sigh].
Throughout marshalling (and 2k into the race), Mingjia took on the role of a “human coxbox”, enthusiastically projecting whatever Martha said down the boat, assisted by Urim and Olivia, because this girl is selectively deaf.
On top of the technical drama, our stroke Natalie’s backstay decided to wander off just after Hammersmith bridge, but she held it together and led the crew to the finish line. Despite all the chaos, the race itself went brilliantly. Martha’s continuous shouting strategy proved to be remarkably effective. The crew overtook Falcon Boat Club A and St Cuthbert’s Society / St Aidan’s College Boat Club, finishing in 21:45 and climbing from 252nd to 187th place overall.
A special mention to Laura, the ex-novice in the boat, who did fantastically in the race. (We adore you Laura please don’t quit rowing)
Finally, a huge shout-out to Grace (our returning champion), who came to help and support the crew - we couldn’t have done it without you 🫶
Lent Term rowing on the women’s side comes to an end. We’re proud of the progress made so far. Can’t wait for Easter term!
