On a brilliantly sunny weekend in May, Chesterton women’s squad packed up two 8s, a 4+ and a 4-, slathered on the suncream and went for our annual away day in Ely. We were armed with rigger jiggers and we meant business. The goal: have an absolutely fantastic day on the river, with a cheeky bring and share lunch thrown in there too because we’re all pretty civilised around here.

The day started off strong with seat racing, pitting the two 8s against each other in snappy sprints over a short course, which definitely helped shake the cobwebs off! Competitive spirit took hold with spirited discussion about whether one boat might have had a small head start against the other. I couldn’t possibly comment of course.

After another outing, with some splitting into smaller boats this time, we regrouped at the boat house for the Main Event. There’s no doubt Chesterton women can row, but I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge we can put together a rather fine lunch too! There was couscous, quinoa, sausage rolls, vegetarian sushi, Bundt cake and a tray of deliciously gooey brownies, among many other tasty treats.

The final outing of the day was another opportunity for an eight and the small boats to head out on the river. Conditions all day were excellent, if a little choppy on the water, which gave us all a good opportunity to focus on balancing through each stroke, moving as one and working on those piston legs that have been the concentration of our recent coaching.

All in all it was a really fun day hanging out with some awesome rowing nerds. Special shout out to Catherine, Natalie and Jo for organising the day and Eszther for coordinating lunch!

11/10, would recommend – see you all in Ely next year!