Burton Rowing Club based in Burton upon Trent (Trent Rowing Club aka Trent RC)

Shrewsbury Regatta - 12 May 2007

Supporters of Trent Rowing Club gathered on the banks of Shropshire’s River Severn as the Club continued their summer competition campaign at a soggy Shrewsbury Regatta over the weekend.

Unperturbed by the frequent downpours Sculler Kenny Holmes faced opposition from Pengwern Boat Club in his semi final of Open Senior 3 Sculls however he could not match the ability of the local sculler over the 1000meter upstream course.

Also in competition was Gemma Barker racing in Women’s Novice Sculls. Barker was unable to progress past her first heat when her opponent from Guildford took an advantage on the first corner.

Returning to the water Barker faced Runcorn Rowing Club in the semi final of Women’s Junior 15 Sculls.

Again combining with Robert Williams from Loughborough Boat Club Kenny Holmes took to the water in Open Senior 3 Double Sculls. Facing competition from Warwick Boat Club the composite crew struggled to gain a lead off the start but powered through to earn a place in the event final.

Matthew Purdy furthered his success tally in Open Junior 14a Sculls. Seeing off opposition from Royal Chester Rowing Club in his first round convincingly, Purdy progressed to the final. In the final he faced sculler from Hollingworth Lake Rowing Club. Maintaining his composure Purdy sculled well to win the race and the event.

The pairing of Matthew Pountney and competition debutant Tom Leathers was not without benefit. The young duo earned valuable race experience in their semi final of Open Junior 15b Double Sculls.

The Sunday of the event began with clear skies and promises of better conditions. Instead competitors and spectators found themselves facing a miserable day of drizzle.

The Trent/Loughborough composite double of Holmes and Williams were first to face the elements on the water against Pengwern Boat Club. A close fought race saw Holmes and Williams go through to the semi final where there progress was halted by Northwich Rowing Club.

Harry Bird and Simon Clarke faced opposition from Burton Leander in their first ever competitive event. Giving their all the newly formed crew performed well but were unable to match the speed of their opponents.

Gemma Barker had some good performances on the 600meter course overcoming a Burton Leander sculler on her way to the final of Womens Novice Sculls. Unfortunately despite a good start Gemma could not capitalise on her early lead.

Mens Snr III Composite Double Sculls TRT Loughbrough