Unable to compete at Bann Head, the Novices had their own Mini-Head on the Lagan. Training hard over the last few months, they were keen to finally cut their teeth with a first race on the water. Conditions were kind, with little wind and a forgiving current, the stage was set for a little bit of inter-squad competition, giving context to all they had learnt thus far and offering the Novice coxes a chance to take charge.
Marshalled at the Waterfront and set off at ten second intervals, the crews embarked on a 3km slog down the river. Driven on by the coxes and fighting off pursuing boats, through gritted teeth the crews battled down the river.
Despite the occasional crab, all crews rowed well under pressure, maintained their composure and made their way down the river in good time. With their first race under their belts, focus now turns to the BUCS Indoor 1kms on 18th November with the Men’s Tub Champs following on Sunday 19th November.