GIRL pupils from Rupert House School had a clear advantage at the Henley 2K Ergo Challenge last Saturday — double Olympic gold medallist Steve Williams joined in as a member of their team, and handed out medals to the successful competitors afterwards!
The new event at Upper Thames Rowing Club was a joint venture organised by Phyllis Court and Upper Thames together with Leander, and drew support from young and old, including the veterans, who had their own race programme. One elderly gentleman put in a special effort despite admitting it was fifty years since his last row!
The whole idea for the event came from Emma Leech and Judith Burne, both keen rowers who have dedicated a great deal of time to the sport.
Their mission was to raise the sport’s profile, to encourage people to row and to raise money for various bodies, including the Stewards’ Charitable Trust.
“The event has been really successful and, thanks to Steve’s appearance, it has been all the more memorable for the young people taking part” said Judith.
Emma added: “The competition has been a great way to mark the start of a new rowing year I’m really looking forward to the event becoming an annual fixture.”
Published on 14 December 2009
|
