Shrewsbury Crews Deliver Standout Performances at Schools’ Head

Three Shrewsbury School crews travelled to London last week to compete in the Schools’ Head of the River Race, one of the largest and most competitive events in the junior rowing calendar.

The race is held on the Championship Course on the River Thames, covering the four and a quarter mile stretch from Chiswick Bridge to Putney.

Shrewsbury crews were entered in the Championship Eights (1st VIII), School/Junior 2nd Eights, and School/Junior 3rd Eights categories, providing an important early season opportunity to benchmark the squad against leading school programmes from across the country.

Conditions on the Tideway were favourable, allowing all crews to focus fully on executing their race plans along the challenging and technical course.

The 1st VIII produced a strong performance in the Championship Eights category, finishing 9th overall and placing ahead of established rivals Eton College and Latymer Upper School. For the upper sixth members of the crew, the race also marked a significant milestone in their final season representing the school. Reflecting on the race, Henry H (SH, UVI) said: “It was a huge privilege to race down the Schools’ Head course for the last time in the 1st eight today. We’ve set a really good marker for the upcoming regatta season, and we are all really excited for more racing.”

The 2nd VIII also delivered a competitive performance, finishing 10th in their category and placing ahead of both Abingdon and Latymer Upper School. Meanwhile, the 3rd VIII demonstrated excellent composure and race execution to secure 6th place, finishing ahead of Hampton and Westminster.

Jamie B (O, LVI), who raced in the 3rd VIII, reflected positively on the crew’s row: “It was an honour to race with the 3rd eight at Schools’ Head. We had a great row down the course, and the crew is extremely motivated by the result as we look ahead to the summer season.”

Overall, the results highlight the strength and depth within the senior boys’ squad. This is particularly encouraging given the limited water time available in the weeks leading up to the race due to persistently high river levels. With Schools’ Head providing a valuable national benchmark, the squad now turns its focus towards the regatta season.

Training will continue over the coming weeks, including the annual Easter training camp in Spain, which will provide further valuable water time ahead of a busy summer programme.

Mr Athol Hundermark i/c Rowing