NBRC travelled to Amble in Northumberland to take part in their inaugural regatta. The 1st of June gave us cloud, wind, rain and a very, very little bit of sun in the afternoon for a fairly low key affair with only one mixed sprint event, with heats, semis and a final. Neighbours, Dunbar and Eskmuthe travelled together with relatively new clubs from Alnmouth, Blyth, Gosforth, Gateshead and Whitburn.
The Blackadder crew was probably the most experienced on the day for short, sharp course which had similarities to Port Seton. However, even the novice crews, often with good coxes, put up very impressive performances resulting in all clubs finishing the first heat within a few seconds of each other. We went through to the semis with the second fastest time to meet Eskmuthe in the decider. Jeannie in bow, Norma, Sandy, Sheena in stroke and cox Claire pulled out everything to challenge Steedie Falconer and were absolutely neck and neck around all the buoys but at the line, down by half a second on a four minute race. A great day for Eskmuthe because it was their first regatta win and for a couple of their crew their first race.
The planned afternoon event, a social row out to and around Coquet Island, was cancelled because of the high winds and substituted for a fresh water row up the River Coquet. The flotilla of skiffs had a stiff pull against the river and wind for the first part but were rewarded with an easier row up to and around the very prominent Warkworth Castle. Crews then alternated and changed for the row back down river.
A good day for NBRC members meeting and socialising with other rowers and supporting Amble RC in their first successful regatta.