Writes Davena Scott, Head of Raphael House
Over the weekend, twelve Merchant Taylors’ boys went to compete at the British Rowing Indoor Championships.
Being a national event, the boys got the opportunity to race against students from schools all across the country, as well as see Great Britain’s National Team compete in similar events.
We are extremely proud of everyone that competed and it is clear that they enjoyed the journey. Here we have a few accounts from the boys that competed.
Photo credits @ allmarkone
Writes Hugo G. (3rds)
My First Time at the British Rowing Indoor Championships
If I told my friends that I did this, they probably wouldn’t believe me! I’d never tried anything like it before, and even I was a little surprised to be racing at the British Rowing Indoor Championships in Birmingham.
This wasn’t just a small, local event – the moment we stepped inside, I could see it was something huge. It had the atmosphere of a proper national competition, with rowers representing clubs and schools from all over the country. You could feel the intensity of a real competition everywhere you looked.
I was nervous at first, but when my race started, all that turned into pure excitement. I pushed harder than I thought I could, and learnt how important it is to get into a rhythm and keep going.
The atmosphere was amazing. Everyone was so friendly and supportive, cheering each other on and encouraging everyone to do their best.
I’m so happy I got the chance to take part. Now I can’t wait to train harder, get stronger, learn new techniques, and hopefully come back next year even better!
Writes Parth D. (Divs)
Leading up to the British Rowing Indoor Championships (BRIC), all of us were putting in extra effort. Most of the U3rds and 4ths were working tirelessly on the ergo to cultivate their technique. On the day, we all had goals for the competition; however, as a team, we all wanted Taylors’ to coxswain into the lead.
I watched some of the team whilst they rowed, and the fire and determination to win was unique to the competition. I can’t wait to see what surprises the rowing season holds, not like much can top this!
Writes Abbas S. (4ths)
On Saturday 6th December, we went to the British Rowing Indoor Championships. This was a wonderful event, and I enjoyed it very much. I saw many famous rowers including Lauren Henry who won gold at the Olympics. We also were able to meet the Team GB rowers, and they even signed our shirts.
Overall, this was an enjoyable event, and everyone was able to have fun.
Writes Ronan K. (3rds)
As we travelled to Birmingham, nerves arose. My brain thinking of all the techniques we had learnt in the club!
When we arrived, it was raining heavily, but that didn’t stop us from getting lost. The place was huge; it is crazy to think that I didn’t even know it existed! Upon arrival, we were given wristbands, and I was constantly taking videos and pictures of what seemed exciting.
As soon as we stepped inside the music, energy, screaming (and the smell of hot dogs) blasted our senses. Surprisingly, an intense weight lifting championship was also going on.
Right before our eyes was the National Rowing Team, showcasing their impressive skill. Luckily for us, there were practice rooms and machines to warm up on, which we used after lunch to prepare for our race.
Suddenly, my race was called. I felt cameras turn to me and heard the commentary announce the event.
I got ready. My hands clenched the handle fearsomely! As soon as the start signal was called, I gave my all in an explosion of energy, pulling and pushing with all of my might. The race went well, but there were learning points to be had.
I thank the teachers who took us on such an exciting competition so far away, and for taking good care of us.
