A small but perfectly formed crew went to Eskmuthe Regatta last weekend. Another four seasons in one day fun!
We met at NB harbour to prepare the boat for towing. Masterclass in how to with Ann and Jacque, thanks ladies.
Arriving in sunshine we got the gazebo up and SJB onto the beach with help from the Eskmuthe rowers. It was the theme for the day…everyone pitching in, getting involved with finding guest rowers and generally making the skiffie magic happen.
The first race for us was the Blindfold race. The conditions stayed good and with Steve’s expert coxing we managed to grab the bronze after a close finish (apparently!)
Then NB 45+ Mixed took Gold beating Eastern to Silver!
The weather took a turn for the worst as the Open Men with Norma coxing took to the start line. This race is a mix up with home boat, cox and stroke with rowers from other teams to make up the crew. Thunder was heard rumbling over Leith and the black clouds rolled up the Forth. The squall came across and Jacque braved the torrential rain to wave our flag on shore to guide them in to take Gold. Martin took Bronze rowing with Alnmouth.
Open Women up next and the summer weather continued. Ann took Gold rowing with Eastern and Norma Bronze with Eskmuthe.
The last race of the day, the Relay, was mixed up crews again and I rowed with Alnmouth. The men go first then the women jump in so the boat is the baton! Two men in our boat were over 6ft so two of our wee women struggled with not being able to reach the footrests….much hilarity. Claire Cadoux took Gold with Row Porty, Steve took Silver with Eastern and Jacque Bronze with South Queensferry.
The medal ceremony was finished with a fantastic song by Fox (Blue tutu lady) from Eskmuthe.
It was a grand day out with fabulous hosts, lots of laughs and great food. For a nearly newbie it was lovely to meet, chat and row with other clubs.
Next up NB Regatta 26th August. Let’s get the prayer mats out for calm waters, nae wind and sunshine!