GGBC Calendar Page launched
- want to know when and where all the great Goring Gap
rowing events are being held in 2008? Everything is now
online - just visit the Calendar page.
No excuses now for missing an upcoming event....and if you
have your own Google calendar you can even add the not to
missed events directly.
Lose those extra pounds -
Christmas holidays often mean over indulgence in the good
things in life.....and a little unwanted extra weight for
the New Year. GGBC has the answer - no need to renew the gym
membership or go on a strict diet.....just come down to the
club each Sunday for an all body workout, meet all your old
friends and have lots of fun!
After all it's not long until Angers.....and we want to look
good in all that GGBC lycra!
Santa Row a great success
- Over 20 members braved the freezing conditions for a
pre-Christmas celebration.....and what a great time they
had. Vanessa, our new social secretary, organised the day,
along with the food, music, mulled wine...and she cleaned
the microwave!
Meanwhile boats were varnished, others were rerigged, and
still more were taken into the dry ready for refurbishment.
And while this was all happening Roger and his helpers
cracked on with the new racking.
After so much activity it was soon time for a row.
Conditions were still freezing but fortunately the fog
cleared an little and soon we had an eager crew boated in
the eight.....rowing perfectly despite the cold conditions. Girls crew in full flow
The 'girl's crew + Iain....very festive
Not to be out done the guys plus Romilly and Flow went out
for the second outing.
Guys in an assortment of strange headgear
Of course no Christmas outing is complete
without a few carols.... the '8' days of Christmas proved
particularly popular. We even raised a few smiles from the
passing walkers and fishermen with our rendition of "we wish
you a Merry Christmas".
A great turnout, lots of valuable work underway, and a fun
event for all to enjoy. Thank you to all who made it such a
great success.
And here's the video footage......
Whoops! Forgot videos should be landscape!
Guys Looking good
Cool.....
A racing start......
Not long now........All are
welcome.....Bring a bottle, some food and your festive head
gear - if you want to row. See you all at the
Oratory Boathouse......'Santa
Row' Sunday 23rd Dec 10am - 2pm
GGBC gets organised
- communication is one of the key factors to any thriving
organisation.....and so it was with this in mind that we've
decided to add a calendar page to the website. All the
forthcoming events and crucial dates at a glance.....so you
never miss out on the year's exciting programme. It's still
in draft at the moment.....none of the dates (except the
Santa Row) are finalised.
The Calendar page should go live in the next few weeks.....
Please let us know if you have any suggestions for
additional events.
Squadlist - an ongoing problem
has been organising crews for practice and training (and
racing) sessions. We now have a brand new service.....a web
based system called Squad
List where each person fills in their details,
availability etc. Each person can then see who else can make
it on any particular day.
Many of you will receive an
email detailing your logon and password - please take a few
minutes to fill in your details. If you haven't heard
anything then please
drop us a line.....the more people rowing the better!
Boat racking takes shape - the
long promised boat racking is coming along nicely. Under the
skilful eye of Roger Moore the process of cutting and
erecting the scaffold has so far gone without a hitch. Still
lots of work to do.....
If anyone has some old carpet to cover the horizontal poles
we'd be pleased to provide it with a new home....just
email
Boat maintenance
- with Oratory school on holiday we've double our efforts on
the boat repair front. The dry boathouse is now full of GGBC
boats drying out ready for some minor repair work. Graham
has already had a revarnish, and 2 of the restricted fours
are derigged ready for some TLC. Our latest addition, Snuffy,
is getting the once over.....she'll be in tip top condition
for the new year.
If you fancy helping out please drop
Pete West
(Captain of Boat) a line. What better way to escape
Christmas.....a few hours quietly working on one of our
beautiful craft.
Goring
Gap News - yep, GGBC have reach the pinnacle of local
news coverage.....a full page article in GGN!
Lets hope
lots of our friends and colleagues get inspired and join us
on the river next year....
With two Learn2Row courses and a new Learn2Scull course
planned for 2008 it couldn't be a better time to give rowing
a go.
All are welcome.....
Tim features
in Regatta Mag - Chairman Tim Gill has hit the
headlines in the latest issue of Rowing & Regatta magazine -
the ARA's official publication ..... read by the country's
top rowers.
Tim is pictured with the ARA CDO Sarah Birch being
presented with the ARA 'Recreational and Learn to Row' club
status certificate and an Awards for All grant....
Great to see GGBC getting a little recognition from the
rowing world.....
The River
runs high - after a run of excellent
weather this autumn we've now run into winter......wind,
rain and red warning boards. We'll get out onto the river
when ever it's possible...after all we've only got a few
months to get into prime shape for Angers.
Not all is lost -
it's now the time to get our boats undercover and
refurbished ready for another year of fun rowing. We'll be
moving each boat in turn into the dry boathouse for a quick
check over and revarnish.....so if any of you fancy a few
hours sanding then please let us know.
GGBC Christmas event - not long
t'ill Christmas.... all that shopping stress can take its
toll.....so why not relax with your friends at GGBC for a
festive row?
The GGBC 'Santa Row'
Sunday 23rd December
10am - 2pm
There will be rowing (and possibly racing)
under the special 'Santa Row' rules......all crews must be
appropriately dressed - minimum dress code is a red hat!
However the event isn't just about rowing....there will be
mulled wine and minced pies, and of course time to catch up
with all your friends at GGBC. Why not bring the whole
family....so they find out what they've been missing?
We'd like everyone to bring down a contribution to the
festivities.... wine, crisps, minced pies, sausage rolls,
paper plates and cups, tea and coffee... but most
importantly we'd like to see you!
Should be a great start to the festive season.....not to
mention an excellent way to stay in shape before the
Christmas binge. For full details please contact our new
social secretary
Vanessa.
Crews are already training hard for the event....apparently
you need to take care at the finish.....a blade handle and
beard entanglement can be disastrous!
AGM - An excellent turnout and
some lively debate. It was great to see so many new members
standing for election..... should be lots of exciting new
ideas for the new year!
Elected to the committee this year
were:
The
highlight of the evening was the presentation to Hedley
West of an engraved tankard in appreciation of all his
hard work over the years. Hedley has been the backbone of
the regatta organisation....his logistic skills are
legendary, and he has but in endless hours of work
maintaining the club's aging fleet of boats.
Hedley has been made an honouree member of GGBC... in
acknowledgement of his contributions to the club.
Hedley - presented with a beautifully
engraved tankard......and a trade size
tin of varnish!
Officers
Chairman
Secretary
Treasurer
Captain of Rowing
Captain of Boats
Membership Sec
Social Sec
Regatta Chairman
Committee
Tim Gill
Catherine Deeprose
Fen Harbridge
Richard Bowsher
Pete West
Tim Greaves
Vanessa Munday
Vacant
Hedley West
Roger Moore
Mike Colinson
John Hyde
Brian Barnes
So now you know who to badger if you have any ideas or
problems! For easier ID see their online
photos.
Two slight amendments to the rules were carried and the
membership fees remained unchanged....
Sponsored
Row - We're in
the press! Reading Chronicle and
the Henley Standard have run extensive features on the GGBC
sponsored row....we're famous!
Those of you who are ARA members should also look through
the next issue of Rowing & Regatta magazine..... our fame
may have spread to the Nationals!
Hello, Sunday Sport, Okay .....we're open to offers for
in-depth exclusives.....
Great to see the club getting some well earned recognition -
and expect lots more great news in 2008!
We've also received a letter of appreciation from WaterAid thanking
us for the £4k we raised. Here are some specific
examples of what the money can buy:
£1500 pays for a mason and drilling supervisor to
work on 125 tube wells benefiting over 30,000 people in
Uganda
£2000 can support Integrated Hygiene Education in 10
schools (or 1500 students who in turn can educate their
families too) in India
£3000 pays for a pump engine serving 5000 people in
Tanzania
I think we can safely say we've saved a few
lives.....well done.
Annual General Meeting - this
year's fun filled meeting is scheduled for -
Time to consider if you'd like to play a
bigger part in the running of our thriving club....we're
always keen to encourage new ideas. Please come along .....
it's your club.
Learn2Row
- the course may have finished but the participants (joined
by a few of the folks from the previous courses) have taken
to the sport in a big way. They've been putting in hours of
extra practice each Saturday to ensure that come 2008
they'll be a force to be reckoned with.
Jaws! - Ever
wondered what lurks below the calm waters at Pangbourne?
Always thought the river looks inviting and capsizing is a
great way to cool off........then think again! Judging by
the size of this 17 pound pike caught today one should be a
little more cautious....
Percy the Pike - nibbling a blade near you.....
Boat Maintenance Day
Sunday 18th November, 11am-1pm,
Oratory boathouse
Essential pre-winter maintenance and kit audit to ensure we
have a tip top fleet for next year. Rowing 9am to
11am...then a concerted effort to get each boat off the
racks, checked over and any problems noted and fixed.
New Boat for GGBC - Snuffy, an
Eton double gig, has just arrived at the club. This wide
stable craft has two sliding seats and can be rigged as
either a pair or double. She has the added advantage that
there is room for two passengers to steer and encourage the
rowers.....great for families, but also a useful boat for
beginners to gain their confidence. and learn the basics.
Snuffy at Bradford on Avon
The boat was purchased from Bradford on Avon
rowing club - a very friendly bunch who said a fond goodbye
to their craft. However we've already arrange a reunion at
Henley regatta next year....
Snuffy - a superb addition to our fleet
Thanks to Brian, Sara, and John for their
help getting Snuffy safely back to GGBC - and Chris for
arranging the trailer.
We also managed to transport our existing gig pair to
Roger's house for some much needed refurbishment. If all
goes to plan we should be able to have a touring weekend in
the spring...
Annual General Meeting - this
year's fun filled meeting is scheduled for Wednesday 28th
November at the Goring social club.....every
member will get notification in the next week or so - see
below.
Time to
consider if you'd like to play a bigger part in the running
of our thriving club....we're always keen to encourage new
ideas. Any rule changes or issues you'd like
considered...let us know. Below are copies of the
proposed AGM agenda and last years' draft AGM
minutes....ideal bedtime reading...
Sponsored Row -
The crews have raised a fantastic total.....
but there's still time to donated......lets get past the £4K mark.
The crews would like to thank everyone who
has contributed to the superb total above. We really
appreciate your support and are certain that the money
raised will make a lasting difference to peoples lives. For
full details of the day see the dedicated sponsored row
page.
Notification Draft Agenda
Draft Minutes 2006
It's been an exciting year....with a good number of high and
low points..... together lets make 2008 even better.
Learn2Row
- the final session of the Autumn course was a great
success. To everyone's relief (no more erging please!) the
river was flowing sedately and the weather ideal for a
strenuous outing. Our crews were fantastic.....really
pulling together all they've learnt over the past weeks to
produce some exceptional rowing.
Everyone had at least one
outing in the eight and completed the gruelling ' round the
Island head ' course. For the record the best time on the
day was a staggering 12 min 1 sec..... a new best time for a
L2R crew.
A special mention should also go to the first four crew
who managed a stunning victory just out pacing the eight
over the course. It was very close with the eight catching
every stroke near the end.... great effort.
The crews turning at the island.....very close.
So keen are the latest group of rowers that they've even
asked for extra sessions.....watch out all you regular GGBC
members you may have some quality competition come the
regatta.
We were very pleased to have Sarah Birch from the
ARA to present the much converted L2R mugs. She also brought
along her Gold Medal....World Champion in the light weight
pair - wow!
The awesome foursome in action.
The eight - rowing perfection.
The happy Autumn 2007 L2R members proudly
display their well earned Learn2Row mugs.
Many thanks to everyone who gave their time
and expertise to make the course a great success - you did a
fantastic job.
Inspired? - why not come along to the next L2R course in
spring 2008 -
email now to join the emailing list.
Sarah Birch
GOLD!!!
The course was a great success - the only negative comment
(from the girls) was the lack of lycra clad guys, 25-30
years old! - some people are never satisfied.....
Punting.....end of the season.
The two GGBC punts have been put into storage for the
winter.....both are still in great condition and should be
back on the water in the early spring....weather permitting!
Punt For Sale - We also have a
wooden punt.....in need of a little TLC but would make a
great family or fishing boat. It's for sale - just £200! If
you're interested please
contact us. -SOLD-
Annual General Meeting - this
year's fun filled meeting is scheduled for Wednesday 28th
November at the Goring social club.....every
member will get notification in the next week or so. Time to
consider if you'd like to play a bigger part in the running
of our thriving club....we're always keen to encourage new
ideas. Any rule changes or issues you'd like
considered...let us know.
It's been an exciting year....with a good number of high and
low points..... lets make 2008 even better.
Boat Maintenance Day -
Saturday 20th October 1pm at Oratory boathouse - Please
come down and help....
GGBC Crews Impress in
Paris - three top GGBC crews (helped out with a
few WRC friends) went to Paris to compete in les
Foundations.....a gruelling 3.7km head race on the mighty
Seine. Top clubs from all over Europe made the trip to this
special annual event. Conditions were perfect, our crews in
peak physical condition and our boats some of the finish
money could buy.....all the ingredients for a fantastic row.
GGBC crews post race......tired but still quietly
confident of a win at sometime during the day
Our two men's crews rowed incredibly well in
the eight....despite the first crew getting swamped on their
way down to the start. Earlier a quick, but very effective,
training run with our old friend Jacque really helped with
the final preparation....come race time we were relaxed and
committed to put in our very best efforts.
So you think our boat traffic is a problem!
Crews setting off towards the start
For many of our rowers this was their first
'real' racing experience - they did everything
right....boating like an experienced crew and rowed with
style and poise.
Crews come into sight - the fourth bridge
marked just 700m to go!
A superb effort from the guys set the mark
for many crews... the assembled crowd giving them a rousing
cheer as they crossed the line.
Men's crews set off for their race
A quick change of crew and the same boat was
soon back on the water - the second men's crew had a serious
target to aim for.
A superb start real powered their boat
along....but had they pushed too early? As the race
progressed so the exertions of the first 2km started to take
it's toll.....the 3rd km was hard, very hard. As they went
under the final bridge the crew made a sterling effort,
upped the rate and push for the line.....the result, the
fastest GGBC time of the day (16:22) - but alas not the
fastest ever GGBC crew (16:07).
Second men's crew dig deep as they cross the line
The girls had a great row taking third place
honours in their class - a fantastic effort and a just
reward for all the hours of training. They rowed fast with
excellent technique....great ambassadors for the club.
Girl's octuple moves swiftly towards the finish
Club President with the Tankard from GGBC
The band strike out as the union jack flies above
Party time....There's an English Rugby
Team to support!
GGBC Crews ready to cheer on their
Country in true English tradition
Irresistible.....the GGBC 'girls' leave for the party
An excellent weekend of rowing, celebration, rugby and
fun... many thanks to all our friends from Basse Seine for
their superb hospitality - we look forward with great
anticipation to next year's event!
If you'd like to be part of our crews for future trips
abroad just let us know...we'd love to have you along.
Paris, What Great Timing - GGBC
has managed to arrange for it's annual trip to the Basse
Seine club in Paris to coincide with the Rugby World Cup.....and
the two teams competing in the semi final on Saturday -
England & France! Combined with the 125th anniversary of the
boat club Saturday night should prove to be a night to
remember!
Obviously we're confident of the double - a win in both the
rowing and rugby.....guys, don't let us down.
28 GGBC members are travelling out to Paris....a record for
the club. All the extra training (including last weeks 32
miler) is bound to pay off....we're anticipating some record
times.
Our trips to France twice a year have proven to be as
popular as ever - ensure you ask about them next time you're
at the club....we'd love to have you along.
Learn2Row
- our latest batch of L2R participants have just moved from
the safety of the restricted fours to the finer and much
fast eight... with great results. These guys and girls are
naturals...the boat was flying along in no time.
See the guys & girls in action....click
here for the video footage
Sponsored RowTriumph....32 miles
(50km) of tough rowing from Oxford to Pangbourne in just
7.5hours! And a fantastic £2.5k+ raised for
WaterAid. What an achievement!
Sponsored Row - Club members
have jumped at the chance to raise some money for
WaterAid in a marathon row along the Thames. The Oxford
to Pangbourne row is planned for the 7th October.... a
leisurely 30+ miles through 15 locks!
We have almost two eight crews eager to take on the
challenge - with some excellent support from some of our
friends at Wallingford Rowing Club. There are still seats to
fill so if you're are interested in helping out (you don't
need to be a GGBC member) then please get in
contact.
As I'm sure you're aware 2007 has been a bit of a disaster
with many of our annual events cancelled due to poor river
conditions. It's been a big disappointment, especially the
G&S regatta which took so much effort and time to organise.
However
bad our season it's nothing compared to the poorer nations
of the world where flooding and the lack of clean water is a
matter of life and death.
The wonders of modern technology mean that you can give
online, have the gift aid collected and see how the fund
raising is progressing on a daily basis.
What could be easier, so give it a go NOW....only
a week before the big row....
Please email all your friends to help with
our efforts....it will be very much appreciated.
New Boat Christened - GGBC's
latest acquisition, a Sims double / pair has just had it's
first outing....and was a great success. Responsive, fast
and agile this boat should be a real winner with club
members.
John and Alana were very keen to get a float and see how
well she performed ....and as you can see by the photos they
really enjoyed the outing and soon worked up a healthy sweat.
The new double 'Martin Kay' being put through it's paces
Puntastic -
Brian shows his prowess at punting.....apparently 'happyness
is a 12' pole in your hands'.
The GGBC punts are housed at the Swan in Streatley, and are
a great way to explore the reach. The back stream that leads
up to the mill is rather overgrown and difficult to navigate
but it can be done - as was proved last Sunday! Just make
sure you take the paddles with you....the reach is rather
deep for punting in places!
The punts can easily accommodate 5 people in comfort - great
for a family picnic.... To see more of Brian's expert
punting technique
click here
(you'll need to turn your monitor!) - Hmmm....may be the
trees could do with a trim.......
River Cruise a Great Success -
this years GGBC annual dinner dance travelled a more
familiar route.....along the Thames form Goring to Reading
and back.
Lots of music, dancing and excellent food made it an evening
to remember. Lots fun, drinking and rowing
talk.....plus a constant lookout for a site for a GGBC
boathouse.
Sponsored Row - Just two seats left to make up
the crews....coxing or rowing. If you fancy the challenge
please drop us a
line.
Sponsorship is going really well, many thanks to all those
who have given already. There's still time -
Click here
Learn2Row
- After just half an hour on the water and a quick session
in the rowing tank our latest group of Learn2Row
participants are already showing lots of talent. So much so
that we're already working on some of the advanced
techniques usually planned for session 4!
Shouldn't be long before these guys and girls are rowing the
eight and speeding down the river...We should have some
great crews for next years regatta season.
The ever popular tank session at OUBC proved a great way to
work on the basic stroke in a controlled environment.
Lots of fun, some strenuous exercise and a lap or two around
the 4 minute mile track....what better way to spend a
Wednesday evening?
L2Rers concentrating on the finer points of the stroke.
GGBC River Cruise
- Tickets are
selling fast. Should be a great evening....Download a
poster and
booking form now.....it's too good to miss!
Learn2RowFull booked - and a further 2 people on the waiting
list. Don't worry, there will be another course next
year....just be quicker next time to avoid months of
disappointment.
New boat arrives at GGBC - we
have just obtained a Raymond Sims double scull / pair from
Marlow RC. A superb boat, ideal for learning to scull in, it
should be a great asset to the club. Combined with our
Aylings pair (which we can convert to a double) and the 4
new sculls (Awards for All grant) we should have an ideal
fleet for a Learn2Scull
course next spring / summer. If you're interested - and I'm
convinced places will be snapped up - then drop us
a line now so you'll be first to hear about the course
dates etc.
The new boat comes with both sculling and sweep
riggers so it will be great for training. At a 75-80kg crew
weight it's ideal for almost all our members. A few minor
repairs and a quick clean up will get the craft into the
high standard that we expect. Just one look at it's present
condition - the hull is stained brown - is a clear
indication why we always wash down our boats after use....
With the girls concentrating on sculling this year -
mainly in the octuple - the addition of some smaller boats
is bound to be popular.....we hope to see you on the river
soon and may be competing in the near future!
Boat should be ready for it's maiden outing in the next week
or so....
BG Group 'Rowing Experience'
- take a group of complete beginners up to racing standard
in just an hour - impossible? Not a word we use at GGBC, as
the recent 'Rowing experience' proved! 30+ Norwegians from
the BG Group visited the boathouse for an intensive
afternoon of rowing. Ergs were lined up, boats ready and
waiting....and coaches eager to pass on their knowledge. A
combined effort from GGBC and some Oratory 'old Boys' made
the event a real success. After a quick introduction on the
rowing machines it was straight into the octuples and eights
for some on the water experience.
Ergos in action....the guys soon picked up the basics
The crews, guided by our experts, were soon paddling down
the river......from just pairs rowing it soon progressed to
fours and then the whole crew. These guys and girls were
good....so much so that they insisted on racing! May be not
the most stylish technique but they all managed to get to
the finish line at a fast rate.
Everyone was really impressed by the event and had a
great time. Many thanks to all who helped plan and run the
day - you did the club proud.
Crew setting off on their first ever outing....looking good
so far
Octuple being closely watched by the safety / coaching
launch
The happy BG Group after their 'Rowing Experience'
Wallingford Town Regatta - even
more
WINNERS!
In a late season burst GGBC has proven their
standing in the local rowing fraternity.....by taking a huge
haul of trophies at the WRC Town Regatta.
All but 1 of the victorious 8 crew members
started rowing just four months ago at the May Learn2Row
course.....this was their first ever event! Rowing in the
higher 'amateur' class they were up against some stiff
opposition but they came through and all four crews (men's,
women's and 2 x mixed) made the finals.
The mixed event was an all GGBC affair but
still it had some drama....after some equipment failure
their first race had to be rerun (much to Brian's dismay!).
The second time around it was a cracking race with both
crews giving 110%....very close at the finish with 'The
Fantastic Oar' taking the honours.
Fantastic Oar cruise to victory - note the unique
complimentary style of stroke and three!
A very close second - Fair and Square
Dun Rowing from the Red Lion just losing out to Fantastic
Oar
Superb blade work from Yvonne at bow (another L2R member)
The men's final was up against the mighty 'South Stoke
Sinners' who proved just a little too good for the GGBC
'Even Keel' who lost by just a length.
Men's four just losing out the the South Stoke Sinners
But the best was still to come.....the girls
crew were entered in a challenge match against the WRC
novice girls crew....top athletes from a high performance
club!
The GGBC crew 'Girls on the Pull' got away
to an excellent start and at the three quarters mark were up
by half a length.....but WRC were not finished and pushed
hard to the line - it was a very close call.....the crowd
waited in anticipation and the announcement came over the
loudspeakers "Girls on the Pull" had won by just 3 feet! A
fantastic row and a well deserved victory.
'Girls on the pull' winning the WRC challenge
The winners showing off their trophies including
the best amateur club shield
(Romilly, Jenny, Brian, John, Mike, Catherine, Ian, Sara)
Learn2Row
- just a few place remaining.....be quick or be
disappointed! May be you could be a winner next year?
GGBC River Cruise - only a few
weeks away, tickets selling fast. Should be a great
evening....a shame if you weren't there!
WINNERS!
The GGBC guys managed a historic win in
their challenge race against the mighty Reading Rowing
Club.....Yep, they won in great style. After a long distance
warm-up (Oratory to Reading) interspersed with some vigorous
practice pieces, the crew was eager to test themselves
against some top opposition. Rowing David Combs (20 year old
wooden eight) the guys relied on superior technique rather
than the latest high tech equipment. The 750m course looked
formidable but we treated it as a sprint and knew the start
would be crucial.....2 draws and 5 winds and we were already
up.
We held and extended our
position through to the 500m mark stretching the lead to 3/4
length. The Reading novices pushed hard and started to come
back at us....but as so often happens trying too hard
resulted in a crab....we drew away and won comfortably by a
1.5 length. A really exciting race and a milestone for GGBC.
The crew then returned at double quick speed back to our
boathouse....a 15-20km round trip!
Great effort guys - the winning crew:- Pete W, Ronan,
Richard, Tim Gr, Neil, Lester, Tim Gi and Andy.....all
superbly coxed by Fen.
Many thanks to the folks at Reading Rowing Club for
asking
us along to their excellent Corporate Challenge Regatta.
Roll on the next challenge......
Reading Rowing Club Challenge -
The novices from RRC have had a pretty meagre season due to
the weather ..... culminating in the ultimate disappointment
- the cancelling of the G&S Regatta challenge races.
However, RRC have a small corporate regatta on 1st September
.... so it seemed like an ideal time to challenge GGBC to a
race!
Our top eight guys (okay the eight who could make it!) are
poised to take on the mighty RRC novices over a tough 800m
course. GGBC will be racing their faithful eight, David
Combs, in what should be the highlight of the days racing.
Supporters are obviously very welcome ....who knows we might
just win!
STOP PRESS - our guys are racing at 11:45 - come down
and cheer them to victory!
Sponsored Row? - As I'm sure
you're aware 2007 has been a bit of a disaster with many of
our annual events cancelled due to poor river conditions.
It's been a big disappointment, especially the G&S regatta
which took so much effort and time to organise.
However bad our season it's nothing compared to the poorer
nations of the world where flooding (and the lack of clean
water) is a matter of life and death.
May be we could do our bit to help, and put our own minor
problems into perspective, by raising some money for
WaterAid with a sponsored row?
Oxford to Reading (35 miles) in a day? The provisional date
is Sunday 7th October....if you're interested in
taking part please get in
contact.
Awards
for All - Great news .....
we've been awarded a £5000 grant to buy some brand new
single sculls to enable us to run a Learn2Scull
course next year.
Sculling was identified in the recent survey as an activity
that our members would most like to develop - with the help
of A4A we should be able to make this happen in the very
near future.
Many thanks to all whose efforts have made this possible....
Paris Oct 13th - Just two
months to go before our trip to Paris and we need to start
thinking about booking our train tickets.....so if you'd
like to come along please ensure you
contact us ASAP.
The weekend starts on Friday 12th....rowing Saturday
afternoon, party Saturday evening and sight seeing Sunday
before travelling home in the evening - a great time is had
by all!
Stop Press - a record 27 people are on their way
to Paris... a girl's octuple and two men's eights....plus
some coxes and supporters!
Rowing - it's back to normal
rowing again now the water has returned to average levels.
Club sessions on both Sunday mornings and Thursday evening
- after the brief break in training we all need to get back
into peak condition. Paris is only a couple of months away
so we've still time to build up some extra stamina and work
on perfecting our techniques.
All are welcome....so if you've never rowed before please
feel free to come down to the club for a taster. You can
visit, become a temporary member (free!) and go out for a
short outing with one of our experts.
Having fun is what GGBC is all about....we're inclusive, so
don't be shy, come on down...we look forward to meeting you.
Learn2Row
- Autumn course is now open for bookings. The ever popular
GGBC L2R course has an enviable reputation for high quality
tuition combined with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We
aim to provide the very best introduction to the sport of
rowing. Don't delay.....we had lots of people who
didn't manage to get a place on the spring course.... so
places are sure to be snapped up!
Boathouse Underwater - Yep the
surge has arrived .... and the water levels are as
predicted....High! Never seen it quite this
level....especially in July. Rowing this Sunday is highly
unlikely ..... but there will be a need to clear up the mess
that's left! The only casualty so far is a part of the
landing stage.....it's heading towards London now.
Regatta Disappointment - GGBC
would like to thank all its members and hardworking
supporters for all their contributions over the past months.
The regatta is a huge undertaking and relies solely on
volunteers.
The Regatta site has been cleared and the boats taken home.... put there
is still a great feeling of sadness that all the efforts of
the crews has been somewhat in vain. We hope all who entered
enjoyed the training and will build on their new found
talents in readiness for next years event. In the mean time
please feel free to come down to the club and continue your
rowing....we are always pleased to encourage and help new
members.
The club is still counting the cost of the
cancellation....lets hope it's not too much!
Regatta
Programme - this years regatta programme is one
of the best ever produced. Printed copies will be available
in various outlets around Goring & Streatley.
In addition there is a PDF version available for
download here. (it's 3MB - so it may take a while).
Remember to visit this website on a regular basis - lots of
new initiatives are planned for the coming months....
Regatta Wash-Out - Torrential
rain has put an end to this years regatta......an
unprecedented 4" fell in no time making many roads
impassable....but more importantly the regatta site water
logged (well almost a lake!). Despite Nick seeing this as a
great opportunity to sell more waterside gazebo plots it was
decided that the event just wasn't viable. Site access and
car parking would have been impossible and the river is
scheduled to go to Red warning boards (no craft - powered or
unpowered). Photos courtesy of Andy
Top Netherlands Crew to row at Regatta
- It's been confirmed
K.A.R.Z.V De Hoop, one of the premier crews from
Amsterdam have decided to compete in the Goring and
Streatley challenge race against GGBC, WRC and RRC. The
girls from De Hoop have been training hard for the event
.... choosing G&S in preference to Henley Royal. Will all
that hard work play off on the big day? - we'll just have to
wait and see....one thing is for sure they will have some
stiff competition.
Nice kit girls, very stylish
Post race......nice balloons!
Breaking News - the regatta
draw is complete (well done Roger). The first draft
is now available
here along with the
race times. Things may change slightly in the next
week.....so be sure to recheck closer to the big day.
Regatta Training
Brian in command of a top women's crew
.....come on girls this is serious!
These boys are sooo fast......if not quite in time!
Brian (the younger) adds the finishing
touches to a top men's crew....
Crews assess each others performance after a friendly race..
Pete - they look great but haven't you noticed
stroke and 3 aren't rowing!
Regatta Training....the final
week. Phew, it's been very hard work but the end is now in
sight. 60 crews fully prepared to do battle at the regatta.
Excellent effort from all involved - the response from the
crews has been very complimentary. Everyone has been
impressed by how organised the sessions have been. Still a
few coxing spots left for those who don't want to feel left
out!
Sculling course - If you just
can't wait for the GGBC sculling course (coming soon....once
we get some more sculls!) then Wallingford RC may be a good
alternative. WRC are holding a sculling weekend for adult
beginners on 3rd, 4th & 5th August.
Regatta Training Continues -
despite the continued rain! For some crews it's been almost
three cancelled session in a row..... thunder and lightning,
fast flowing river in the previous couple of weeks ....and
then more claps of thunder this week! Fortunately the storm
blew over and all 12 crews got out onto the water for some
well earned practice.
The very first stroke this crew had ever taken....looks
good!
A crew preparing to collect gold.....
Regatta Entries - with 60 crews
already entered 2007 is sure to be an excellent regatta.
Haven't got around to entering yet?.....well all is not
lost. You must be an experienced crew... as there are few if
any training sessions left, but you can still make an online
entry. (not now you can't!)....
Calling all Scullers - if you
fancy racing in a single scull at the G&S regatta there is
still time to get your entry in.... It's for beginners (no
ARA members), and is over either a 300 or 500m course. The
fine racing sculls are provided. What better way to cool
down than a quick drip in the river in front of the massed
thousands!
Go to the
entry page for more details....Too late I'm afraid
Dongola Racing - Ever popular this
adult / kids events is always great fun.
Rain Causes Havoc - it may be
June but that hasn't stopped a deluge of rain (the Thames
valley got off lightly!) that temporarily put pay to regatta
training. Safety is our main concern and when the yellow
environment agency warning boards are displayed at the locks
we allow only the most competent crews onto the water.
If your session has been cancelled then the club will be
in touch to arrange some alternative dates....so you should
still peak for the regatta!
Regatta Helpers Needed -
The regatta is only weeks away and the build up to the big
day has already started. We do need lots of people to help
on the run u p to the regatta and during the event to ensure
everything goes smoothly.
Lots of our members have hidden
skills.....so don't be shy. An hour or two selling food
tickets, or cooking burgers, or may be coxing regatta crews
or acting as the official finish judge....there are lots of
opportunities to get involved and enjoy the day. The more
help we get the easier it is .... it's great fun being
involved. Contact our
volunteer co-ordinators.
Regatta
Poster
Download - Help promote this years Goring &
Streatley Regatta....download the poster, print a few copies
and pin them up.....what could be easier?
Just a reminder to those who haven't entered yet.....time is
running out, the competition is as popular as ever!
Annual Diner Dance - this year
the plan is to have something a little different....we're
hoping to have a musical cruise down the river instead of
our usually land based celebration. Yep, an evening of loud
music on one of those large pleasure boats we curse the rest
of the year!....should be great fun!
Provisional date: Saturday 22nd September - make a
note in your diaries.....it's not something you'll want to
miss!
Regatta Training - rain stops play........thunder
and lightning too. Bad luck those crews who booked in on
Tuesday evening - just as the crews were getting boated a
clap of thunder rolled over the boathouse......which meant
rowing ceased immediately! ARA recommendations state that we
should wait for a clear 30mins before going back onto the
water.......given the wind, rain and constant flashes the
rowing was abandoned!
Our crews were keen to improve
their rowing technique and work on pre-regatta
fitness......so we got out the ergs and did some land based
rowing in the dry. A few surprises......some of the girls
are expert pullers!
Guys Eight Crew - fancy joining
the girls on a trip to France in October? Want to improve
your rowing skills, fitness and have lots of fun? Then come
down to the boathouse and be part of the men's eight
crew....Thursday 6:00ish, and Sunday 9am.
Who knows we
might even race the girls in the octuple!
Perfect Motion and Technique.....the girls in action!
Octuple Outing a Great Success
- it's only the second training outing for the girls octuple
and the improvement is obvious.....even at moderate pressure
it's hard for our coaching launch to keep up!
Another superb outing.....in perfect conditions. If you'd
like to be part of the crew then don't be shy.....just turn
up at 9am Sunday and 6-6:30pm on Thursday and we'll ensure
you'll get a scull. Haven't sculled before? - don't worry
neither had most of the crew pictured (5 only started rowing
this year)....you'll soon pick it up.
We're hoping for a great result in Paris....with four month
training ahead the crew should peak for the event!
Guys....don't worry, we'll have an eight organised in the
next week or so.
Octuple training - notice anything strange?
Membership Survey Results -
Interim results for the survey sent out to all our
existing members are now in.....they make interesting
reading.
Overall the satisfaction is high
Quads and fours are the favourite boats followed
closely by the eights
You'd like more coaching - a Learn2Scull course is
popular
Competition - more fun events, with maybe a few ARA
regattas
Club sessions - a well organised strenuous session
Good volunteer support to help run the club
To see the in-depth analysis download the
results file
Survey Results 2007
ARA
Award - It's official - GGBC has achieved 'ARA
Recreational and Adult Learn to Row Club' status .... and
we've got the certificate to prove it! (shame they got our
name wrong!)
Well done everyone for working so hard to
gain this prestigious award. No time to rest on our laurels
- we've set the standard, now we aim to exceed it.
As many of you will notice at regatta training things are
a little more organised this year....
Top crew - Four Ever Hopeful take to the water
Can they win again this year? They're looking good.
Regatta Training
starts - it's that time
again....crews from all around the district descend on GGBC
for a quick introduction to rowing before competing at this
years premier rowing event - Goring & Streatley regatta.
The more practice the better your chances.....and so it was
great to see the 'Ladygrove Lasses' kick off the first
training session...
These girls didn't disappoint...... definitely contenders
for the beautiful class!
The
girls looked a little nervous at first but were soon put at
ease. Just the racing starts to perfect....this crew has set
a very high standard!
Still time to enter a crew - see the
link above
Basse Seine - a quick update
for those who've been before.... the Stade Municipal has
been booked for the GGBC crews. Yep, the GGBC home from
home, the famous Olympic arena on the outskirts of Paris
will be our home for the weekend. This plush penthouse
accommodation is only reserved for the most honoured
crews....and even better it's free!
The party
theme this year is 'Gold and Blue'..... the club colours of
Basse Seine, so start thinking now about your attire for
what promises to be a grand event..... we've a reputation to
uphold.
The girl's octuple....chasing down Andy!
Octuple
Sculling - training has started in earnest for
the Paris 4km head. Eight girls ventured out in this
unfamiliar boat - most of whom have never sculled more than
a couple of times - and showed some real potential. With
sculling being the preferred women's craft in France it was
essential that the girls picked up the basics ASAP....they
didn't disappoint.
The
club now has access to a number of fine sculling boats - the
octuple, a wooden coxed quad and of course the double and
singles. We can accommodate any number of rowers - so
everyone will get an outing without having to wait around.
If you'd like to be part of the Paris squad and can commit
to coming down to rowing at least once a week then please
drop us a line.... the more people the better.... we'd love
to hear from you.
Coached session times - Thursday ~6:30pm, and Sunday @ 9am
And guys don't worry.....we'll be training throughout the
summer in the eight and fours....
Basse Seine Trip - our friends
from the Basse Seine club near Paris are keen for GGBC to
compete again in Le Foundateurs, Saturday 13th October.
This year is a special celebration....the club's 125th
anniversary. We're promised lots of wine, champagne, and
happy boys and girls......so I guess we should try to enter
a crew or two!
Better start training now....Thursdays and Sundays, for all
those who are keen to come along.....
Regatta News - The Goring
Unplugged line up for the regatta has just been released -
forget Nebworth and Glastonbury......the best groups have
decided to make the G&S regatta their top gig of the year.
The impressive line up includes -
Lu Cosma, The Newtowners, Seth Kallen & Ben Thornewill, Tim
& Hilary Coulson, MoCairde, The Odyssey of Fran, Scriven
Family Skiffle Band, Chris, Mick, Jon and Friends...
Gazebos - want a plot on the riverside - contact
Nick Bubb..but be quick!
Regatta Coxing Training Session
- It was great to see so many people at the coxing training
today - 25 members came along....now that has to be a
record! We used the GGBC
coxing
handbook as the basis of the session along with the
excellent ARA safety video, plus some tricky questions to
get everyone thinking.
We even know how to check our lifejackets thanks to Pete's
excellent demonstration.
This year we are having a 'session manager' on each evening
of the regatta training - so hopefully everything will run
smoothly and on time. With our coxes now fully aware of
their responsibilities, safety issues and coaching technique
we are hoping to produce some of the best beginners crews
for many years.
Want to help with the regatta training or with setting up
and running the regatta? - it's not too late to volunteer -
contact
Tim Gill - he'll be glad to assist you.
Learn2Row - the final chapter
- All good things must come to an
end.....and so it was on Saturday when the final L2R session
took place. The schedule was gruelling for the final
outing......firstly skill testing in the fours followed by a
quick race around the island. The guys and girls were
outstanding and their hard work over the past few weeks
really shone through....many of our experienced rowers would
have struggled to meet the high standards set.
An
emotional L2R mug presentation followed.....with chairman
Tim making the most of his duties! Family, friends and GGBC
members applauded in appreciation of the achievement that
our L2Rers have made.
No time to rest.....the crews were soon back into the
eight for a final challenge. They were determined to set a
new Round the Island record in the eight. After the
customary warm-up they set off at great speed......the girls
perfect technique and rhythm in the stern complimented by
the power and muscular tone of the guys in the bow - a
winning combination. The final time a mind blowing 11min
18sec......a new record for the course.
To celebrate ..... what better than a Bexy BBQ - Yum!
This has been a great Learn2Row course - excellent
participants, and fantastic support from the club members.
Not forgetting the generous support from the Swan at
Streatley - Well done everyone.
This isn't the last we'll see of our talented L2R rowers
- they've promised to return and train hard for future
events.... watch out at the regatta this year.... these guys
have their sights on silverware!
They
are also promising to take part in a special Learn2Row
challenge race against the L2R course members from 2006. The
'Swan Hotel Challenge' should prove to be one of the star
attractions at the Goring & Streatley regatta.....
The Proud Learn2Row participants
Skill development is a key part of the L2R course. Not for
these guys the highly testing 'all eight chopping in perfect
time' exercise - much too easy. Hence the display of
the much more difficult transition into pure 'free style
chopping'.....illustrated in the video clip on the left!
Nice work.....
Regatta entries - we have been
inundated with entries already. Don't be disappointed,
numbers are limited. You've been warned.
Bridget Claire - Many of you
will notice a new boat on the racks.....well it's an old
boat after a total refurbishment! It's Bridget Claire is a
wooden coxed quad.....made by Eton boats some 22 years ago.
A much loved Oratory boat that a couple of the members have
spent many hours rubbing down and revarnishing.....she looks
and rows superbly.
She still belongs to Oratory but we can take her for an
outing
at club sessions. And the verdict on the water - a really
enjoyable boat to row. Light, responsive and much finer than
the restricted boats yet not overly difficult to balance. In
short a great stepping stone for those who want to try
sculling in a faster boat.
Still lots of craft to work on at the boathouse - a plastic
bow loading quad and a beautiful coxless four - if you fancy
helping please let us know.
Learn2Row -
Saturday saw the first outing in the eight for our Learn2Row
participants....and they relished the challenge. The
whole group have made outstanding progress, and as the photo
below indicates the eight really flew along.
With just two more sessions to go we should have the makings
of some excellent crews......practice is one thing but will
these guys crack under racing pressure?
Many thanks to all the GGBC members who have volunteered to
help out at each session....you've all done a brilliant job.
Anaconda Alert!! - just
joking.... Various sighting of a mystery snake have been
reported near the canoes on the grassy area near the
hedge......A definite 3 foot adder was spotted at the Round
the Island head! Well the critter has been caught on film -
not a highly poisonous viper or a death constricting
anaconda but a beautiful little grass snake.
However the
young lad from Oratory who was out paddling a canoe was
rather alarmed to notice a tail within his boat ......you've
never seen someone get to dry land and exit a boat as fast!
And inside the hull was Sid happily swimming in the now
rather wet shell.
Sid seemed really quite unconcerned and was reunited with
his land based home as soon as everyone had recovered.
It's a great time to see wildlife.....please watch out for
nesting birds in the shoes of our boats. The barn owl was
seen out hunting again and the grebes, wagtails and swallows
all have nest site near the boathouse.
Rather more alarming is the wasps nest that has appear under
the Graham's coxes seat.....lets hope they've been
encouraged to relocate!
Sid the grass snake....
Regatta Entry now online - If
you fancy rowing at this year's regatta then now's the time
to bring your crew together, think of a suitable name and
enter for the big day. Huge crowds, fabulous prizes and a
great atmosphere...what better way to spend a summers day.
Click here for full details.....don't delay, there are
limited places for this top rowing event.
L2R
Tank Session - the participants of this year's
L2R course are doing exceptionally well.....so watch out at
the regatta, I think there could be some strong competition
this year!
Everyone had a fun but rather exhausting evening.
Round the Island head - great
to see so many old friends down at the boathouse.....and so
many of our newest members coming along to join the fun.
Good weather, an excellent BBQ and some lively banter
ensure the event was a great success.
And the all important results....
In a hotly contested
race for the fastest time...in the lightest fastest boat, a
crew of ringers (the Elite Four....who are they kidding!)
managed 9:32 - closely followed by the Hunt Family + Jo.
The racing was much more competitive in the restricted
four category.....a very close run contest with Fearsome
Fen's crew just scraping home to win in 11:45, closely
followed by Belinda's crew and the Derbyshire family. A
special mention must go to a superb effort by Alice, John
and Co (expertly coxed by Roger) who only took up rowing a
couple of weeks ago.....and completed the longest row of
their short rowing careers in a splendid 17:21.....well
done!
In the single sculls Pete took full advantage of
the
calmer
early morning weather to post an unassailable time of
9:44.... but Nick and Andy weren't too far behind.....next
year things could could be very different.
And top marks go to the fantastic cooking skills of Bexy
on the BBQ.....who kept out top athletes fuelled and ready
for action.
Regatta Committee
- with the regatta looming on the horizon it's time for all
you keen volunteers to crawl out of the woodwork and do your
bit to make this annual event another great success this
year.
If you can contribute, even for an hour or so it
will make the overall task so much easier. May be you have
some hidden talents that can be brought to the table?
If you're interested in helping out, or just want to
enquire what help is needed why not come along to the next
regatta meeting on Thursday 10th May at 7:30pm
at Goring Social Club......or send
Tim an email.
Learn2Row exposes latent talents
- it's only week 1, most of the participants have never been
in a boat before .....and yet we seem to have attracted some
of the best potential rowers in the district!
Keen to get onto the water our intrepid crowd went in at the
deep end (not literally) and were paddling down the river at
double quick speed. While on the land ergs could be heard
whirring away in perfect synchronisation. We even ventured
into the advanced BRT 'Hang and Suspend' technique with
great success...
Roll on Wednesday....we'll see if this high standard can be
maintained in the rowing tank.
Many thanks to all the club members who actively supported
the session by coxing, coaching and rowing - you did a great
job.
And of course the Swan Hotel for lending us their superb
ergs....lets hope we don't wear them out!
Members win at local head race
- three current GGBC members competed in a gruelling head
race at Abingdon and won! Okay they were rowing under the
Wallingford banner but we know where they did their
formative years.....
In the pair were Pete West and Lester Clarke.....finishing
in a very respectable 8min 33s, a time that blew away the
competition.
But eclipsing this was a sterling performance by Laura
Forrest in the eight (WS38) in 7min 49s and quad (WN4x)
in 8min 37s....yep she did it twice and won in both events!
A picture paints a thousand words......and all three crews
can be see in action on the following links....
New
Eight takes to the water - the clubs latest
purchase, a fine wooden eight made locally by Harris, has
been carefully assembled and rigged.
The 'Boat with No Name' as she is affectionately known went
for her first GGBC outing on Sunday .....and was a great
success.
Stable, responsive and fun.... it's a great addition to the
club's fleet.
With two eights on site there is no excuse for not getting
out onto the river in a fast crew boat....It's an
exhilarating experience!
Spring Learn2Row course fully booked
- all 12 places have been snapped up.....with lots of
disappointed people still enquiring. If you're not one of
the lucky ones never mind you still have the chance to join
the fun at GGBC -
Come down to the club sessions
for a taster to see if rowing is the sport for you -
we'll get you in a boat and run through the
basics....and the first two visits are free, just fill
in the temp membership form when you arrive. The club is
open to all, so don't be shy come along. I guarantee you
won't feel out of place or intimidated....
May be you want something a little more competitive?
- The Goring & Streatley regatta is not too far
away..... image rowing in front of cheering
thousands....the excitement, the teamwork, the glory!
First you'd better learn to row...which is why all
regatta entries get a crash course at the regatta
training in June. A great opportunity to get a crew of
friends, workmates, family together in a premiere
sporting event....see the regatta
page for full details
Finally there is a chance we might run another
Learn2Row course in the Autumn.....get your name down on
the
mailing list now! Potential scullers might also be
in luck .... there might even be a Learn2Scull course..
So many options....how can you resist?
GGBC boats.....all looking pristine!
- Thanks mainly to an exceptional effort by Hedley all the
club's boats are in superb condition. Revarnished, polished,
and lovingly restored they are in fantastic shape for the
new season. They have also been carefully rigged so the gates are at
the correct height and pitch.....a first for GGBC. Hopefully
you'll notice a big difference.
The club's only single scull - Pegasus - has also been
recanvassed and is ready to take to the water.....a fine
light weight boat.
Don't forget our bright and shiny pair - Make It Happen -
a boat for more experienced rowers but a superb craft for
working on technique.
Graham, David Combs and 'The Boat with No Name' our
three fine wooden boats, and Bob the fine four are ready for
some serious rowing. These craft are just waiting for some
crews to take on the challenge of a local regatta or two. If
you fancy rowing with the big boys then these are the boats
to train in. A challenge to balance but very fast when it
all goes right.
The weather is fine, the boat traffic modest and the
boats are in top shape - What are you waiting for......get
down to the boathouse and join the fun!
ARA Recreational Tour 2007 - Fancy
a leisurely row down the Thames from Oxford to Henley? Then
why not join the ARA annual rowing tour..30th Aug-2nd
Sept.....for full details
click here.
Back to Spring and Summer Punting
The Blue and Green glass fibre punts and the skiff are
available to members in their usual place at the rear of the
Swan Hotel at Streatley. Thanks to the Swan for their
continued hospitality.
The boats survived the high waters in early February, have
been cleaned up and are ready for use. The locker, emptied
for the winter but not chained down, took off on its own
adventure down the Swan backwater. It was re-captured 100
yards downstream, roped and pulled back into service. The
only casualty was the lock and that has been replaced.
Once the locker was cleaned up the paddles, lifejackets,
cushions and bailers, recovered from wintering in Mr Bishops
Barn, were put back in. The punts are now ready to launch.
The code for the lock is unchanged and is in your Membership
Booklet.
Bail out the punt and clean up any leaves and
debris.
Install seat bases and cushions - if required.
Always take at least two paddles on the punts.
Always use the lifejackets for non-swimmers and all
children.
On return record any incidents or comments in the
diary.
Lock up the poles and return the keys to the locker.
Return the gear to the
locker, ensure the punt and site are tidy.
Finally, please review the Punting Safety section of the
Membership Booklet, a copy is fixed inside the cover of
the diary in the locker.
Enjoy some great Spring and
Summer evenings with the punts and skiff on the river, but
remember:
IF IN DOUBT ABOUT RIVER CONDITIONS
DON’T GO OUT.
Bruce Evans has retired as Admiral of Punts
and I have taken over. I’m still a Midshipman but hoping for
rapid promotion. Please contact me if any issues arise with
the ‘non-rowing’ fleet.
ARA accreditation
- Goring Gap Boat Club has recently become one of the first
rowing groups in the UK to receive ARA accreditation as a
Recreational / Learn to Row club.
Lots of form filling and checks were
required by the ARA. Our recent Learn2Row course really
helped to convince the ARA we were able to maintain the high
standards required. Many thanks to all who have contributed
to make it a success.
We've now an enviable reputation to maintain.....
Regatta 'wet-side' - Training
for the Goring and Streatley regatta starts in June....but
preparations are already underway. The regatta training
needs lots of volunteers to help organise and supervise. We
want to ensure all the crews have an enjoyable, rewarding
and safe time on the water.
This year we have a 'wet-side' group specifically to ensure
everything runs smoothly - but we do need more people to
help to lighten the load. Coxing and coaching, boat
maintenance, administration, organising people during
training and at the regatta - it sounds daunting but it's
actually great fun.
We want to make the 2007 G&S regatta
the best ever...
If you can assist in any way please contact
Tim Gill
Spring Learn2Row
course
- This year's first Learn2Row
course is now taking bookings. We hope to build on the
success of last years courses and make the 2007 spring event
even better.
It's a great way to learn a sport, make new friends and keep
fit. Open to adults of all ages, this course has proven
extremely popular - we have a large waiting list from last
year! So if you're interested please don't delay.
Want to tell your work colleagues and friends about L2R?
Why not download a poster and pin it to the notice board?
Coming soon - an advanced Learn2Row
course designed specifically for club members - includes
a trip to the rowing tank and a capsize drill -
email if you're interested.
Safety - rowing is great fun
but like all sports there is an element of danger. At GGBC
we are doing our best to minimise the risks and prevent
accidents.
The
members handbook has a comprehensive section on safety -
please ensure you read it. In addition we must all abide by
the ARA
Water Safety Code.
Key Safety Points
EVERYONE is responsible for safety -
if it's unsafe do something about it!
You MUST be able to swim at least 50m
in your rowing kit or wear a
lifejacket. You must dress appropriately
e.g. NO jeans.
Non-club members MUST read and sign a
temporary membership form before boating.
BEFORE GOING OUT - Place the boat on
trestles and carry out safety checks on rudder,
seats, shoes, gates, and nuts.
AFTER THE OUTING - Wash the boat
down. Report any defects and record them in the
maintenance log and label equipment as unfit for
use.
River and weather conditions can make rowing
unsafe IF IN DOUBT DON'T DO IT!
Spring Learn2Row - Places on
the course in May are filling fast (must have been the
excitement of the boat race!).....so if you wish to join us
please be quick....
Club Sessions - after a quick
rest over the Easter break we are now back into full swing
with sessions on both Thursday evenings and Sunday
mornings....
After all the poor weather it will be great to get back onto
the water.
Summertime Yippee!
- The river is back to normal level,
the sun is shining and the evenings have suddenly got
longer. Everything just perfect for some great rowing - new
boats to try out - even the old ones look brand new now.
Club sessions on a Thursday evening are starting
again - We look forward to seeing you all on the river -
~6pm t'ill dusk
Membership Forms....are winging
their way to all last years members. Just £50 for a full
rowing season (punters get an even better bargain).
You'll also find a questionnaire from the committee - we
want to know your views - and a GGBC Newsletter.
Should be an exciting year ahead....
New
for 2007 a course specifically for GGBC
members who have mastered the basics and want to improve
their technique.
Click
here for full details
The course will be run over an intensive
weekend + a trip to a rowing tank and a swim/capsize at a
local pool.
2 courses planned: 30th Mar/1st Apr & 14th/15th
Apr 2007 - Limited to just 6 members per course - it
should be great fun!
Angers 2007 - If we think we've
got a flooding problem just take a look at where we were
hoping to row on next week! The
insert shows the river level in 2006....and we thought it
was a little high then. For those who have been to
Angers just think back to
how steep the trip from the boathouse to the landing stage
was.....much easier this year.
Thames breaks it's banks - the
results of last weeks rain.......no wonder the RUHORR was
cancelled!
The Boat with No Name - GGBC
has purchased a superb wooden eight specifically for the
heavy weight members..... mainly guys with highly toned
muscle built up during winter training. This second eight is
the ideal companion to the lighter weight DC. We can
hopefully have a few friendly head to head races down the
reach and visit the occasional regatta during the summer.
The new boat has no name.... but there is a cunning plan to
give everyone the chance to come up with a suitable title..
Membership renewal - all
current members will soon receive an application form for
the 2007-8 season. We don't just want your money, we'd like
to know how you'd like to see the club develop - there's a
short questionnaire section which we'd be very grateful if
you could fill in.
We'll also be including a newsletter to keep you up to date
with what is going on in the club.... and who to contact
should you have any questions.
Meanwhile boats were varnished, others were rerigged, and
still more were taken into the dry ready for refurbishment.
And while this was all happening Roger and his helpers
cracked on with the new racking. 
Goring
Gap News - yep, GGBC have reach the pinnacle of local
news coverage.....a full page article in GGN!
eatures
in Regatta Mag - Chairman Tim Gill has hit the
headlines in the latest issue of Rowing & Regatta magazine -
the ARA's official publication ..... read by the country's
top rowers. 
The
highlight of the evening was the presentation to Hedley
West of an engraved tankard in appreciation of all his
hard work over the years. Hedley has been the backbone of
the regatta organisation....his logistic skills are
legendary, and he has but in endless hours of work
maintaining the club's aging fleet of boats.
Sponsored
Row - We're in 
examples of what the money can buy:
Awards
for All - Great news .....
we've been awarded a £5000 grant to buy some brand new
single sculls to enable us to run a Learn2Scull
course next year. 
ARA
Award - It's official - GGBC has achieved 'ARA
Recreational and Adult Learn to Row Club' status .... and
we've got the certificate to prove it! (shame they got our
name wrong!)
The
girls looked a little nervous at first but were soon put at
ease. Just the racing starts to perfect....this crew has set
a very high standard!
The
club now has access to a number of fine sculling boats - the
octuple, a wooden coxed quad and of course the double and
singles. We can accommodate any number of rowers - so
everyone will get an outing without having to wait around.
New
Eight takes to the water - the clubs latest
purchase, a fine wooden eight made locally by Harris, has
been carefully assembled and rigged.
