25/06/2026
HISTORY MAKING MOMENT
On Friday 26 June, history will be made as York City Rowing Club’s first Senior Women’s crew will compete in the Henley Royal Regatta Qualifiers.
Racing in the Wargrave Challenge Cup for Club Women’s Eights, this marks a monumental achievement for the club. It is the culmination of years of commitment, dedication, and development, built on the efforts of former captains, coaches, and countless squad members who have shaped and driven the women’s programme.
A huge thank you to everyone who has supported this journey, with particular thanks to Paul Richardson for his exceptional coaching, guidance, and commitment over recent years.
The crew is:
Cox: Rachel Woods
Stroke: Jessica Pidgeon
7-seat: Amelia Monsey
6-seat: Sarah Hyde
5-seat: Sophy Nicholson
4-seat: Emily Mitchell
3-seat: Tamsin Forde
2-seat: Helen Stephenson
Bow: Rebecca Barrett
We would also like to recognise Caitlin Pinder, Lily Sapcote, and Ruth Burlison, who have trained and raced with this boat throughout the season.
This crew includes three athletes who learned to row at York, as well as the current and three former Women’s Captains. Every member of the crew learned to row at clubs across the North.
While only nine athletes will take to the course, this achievement reflects the collective contribution of the entire women’s squad—past and present—since the programme was first established in the 1960s.
💜🖤💛