More than a hundred members of the Radley rowing community gathered at the Boathouse on Sunday 14 June, for this year’s Mariners’ Challenge, a celebration of rowing at Radley.
At this annual event, Old Radleians take on the College’s 1st VIII over a 500m course. This year, however, the racing formed just one part of a memorable afternoon that brought together current boys, ORs, parents, and current and former staff. For many, it was a nostalgic return to a stretch of river that had played such an important part in their lives.
A highlight of the afternoon was the naming of fifteen Filippi boats in honour of ORs who represented their country at the Junior World Championships. Many of those honoured were present to see their boats officially named, creating an important link between our current Radley rowers, who will take them out onto the water, and those who have gone on to compete internationally.
Olympian Tom George (2008, G).
Eight Filippi fours were named after Hylton Harvey (2017, K), Ed Bosson (2006, D), Charlie Shaw (2007, H), Charlie Elwes (2010, J), Cameron Tasker (2017, E), Bob Rawlinson (2019, F), Gaspard Wenger (2020, D) and Gabriel George (2019, K). Seven Filippi pairs were named after Tom Stewart (2005, F), Rufus Eadie (2007, D), Robbie Wendin (2009, J), Archie McChesney (2013, D), Felix Rawlinson (2014, F), Ollie Wynne-Griffith (2007, D/J) and Tom George (2008, G).
The afternoon also included the unveiling of a memorial bench in honour of Malcolm Mace, former Radley Boatman. Malcolm served the Boathouse with distinction for 38 years, and it was a privilege to welcome members of his family back to Radley for the dedication.
Memorial bench for Malcolm Mace, former Radley Boatman.
On the water, the Mariners crew featured Guy Bugeja (2020, H) as cox, Zak Jenkins (2020, H), Bob Rawlinson (2019, F), Tristan Wenger (2018, D), Gaspard Wenger (2020, D), William Pillar (2020, F), William Rose (2020, J), Ben Hunter (2020, B) and Henry Jones (2018, H).
Race Report from Head Rowing Coach Patrick Duggan:
“On a calm, sunny Sunday afternoon, both crews prepared their boats with due diligence. After considerable deliberation, the Mariners settled on their line-up before turning their attention to strategy, race plan and tactics. Meanwhile, the Radley 1st VIII took to the water promptly to begin their warm-up.
“In due course, both crews made their way to the start, the Mariners under the careful stewardship of their self-appointed coach, Ned Rae-Smith. The Radley 1st VIII arrived on time, following a well-rehearsed routine, apparently undistracted by the valiant efforts of the Mariners, who went to significant lengths to win what was, ultimately, a one-sided pre-race sledging contest.
“As the crews drew level, both appeared fully focused. However, as the race official called ‘Attention’, the Mariners surged forward, taking three full strokes while the Radley 1st VIII held their position. Proceedings were immediately halted, and the Mariners were called back and issued an official warning before both crews realigned for a restart.
“At the second attempt, both crews sat poised and, when the flag dropped, got away cleanly. The Radley 1st VIII took an early lead, though this was briefly checked as the bend came into the Mariners’ favour. For a moment, it looked as though the Mariners might mount a challenge. However, the 1st VIII soon increased the pressure, extending their advantage as they moved past the boathouse concourse in front of a well-supported embankment.
“The Mariners responded gamely, rowing at full pressure and holding just under a length behind, but the Radley 1st VIII maintained their lead through to the finish.
“Both crews were warmly applauded and, once off the water, continued to enjoy the remainder of the afternoon.
“Later, there was an unofficial objection regarding the formalities of the start, suggesting that consideration be given to the long-standing tradition of the Mariners breaking the start and that this might, in future, be permitted. This matter is currently under review, and the stewards will respond in due course.”
It was a delight to welcome so many of the Radley community back for this event, and also to see the continuity and strength of Radley rowing.
