It has been a remarkable summer for Shiplake College rowing, with current students, Old Vikings and staff proudly representing Great Britain on the international stage and achieving outstanding success against some of the world's best crews.
U17 Quad Triumph Against France
Following an impressive victory in the J16 Quad event at the GB vs France Qualifying Regatta on 28 June, S Lee, B Maggs, Miles Vann and Flynn Burrow earned the honour of representing Great Britain in the annual U17 Match against France, held on 11 July in Gravelines, France, near Calais. The boys were thrilled to receive their Team GB kit and embraced the opportunity to compete on the international stage. After a fast start from the French crew, who settled quickly into their race rhythm, the Shiplake quartet remained composed and focused. Demonstrating impressive determination and race craft, they gradually increased their pace through the second half of the race before powering away from their opponents. Crossing the finish line a commanding two lengths ahead of France, the crew secured a superb victory and played a vital role in helping Team GB claim the overall match win. It was a memorable achievement and a fitting reward for the dedication and hard work the athletes have shown throughout the season.
Double Gold for Barney Doyle in Switzerland
Shiplake's international success continued later in July when B Doyle was selected to represent Great Britain in the Men's Eight at the prestigious Coupe de la Jeunesse in Lucerne, Switzerland, from 24 to 26 July. Competing against some of Europe's strongest junior crews, Barney and his teammates delivered outstanding performances across the weekend. The British Eight won gold medals on both Saturday and Sunday, holding off determined challenges from a powerful German crew. In two fiercely contested races, the GB crew crossed the line approximately two seconds clear of Germany, demonstrating excellent speed, composure and teamwork. Barney's double-gold success was another proud moment for both himself and the College.
Medals at the U19 World Rowing Championships
The highlight of the summer came at the U19 World Rowing Championships in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, held from 6 to 9 August, where a number of Shiplake students represented Great Britain at the highest level of junior rowing. Competing in the Women's Four, I Thurnham and Ottilie Campbell-Reide helped Great Britain secure an impressive silver medal. The British crew produced a strong and mature performance throughout the regatta, finishing behind an exceptionally experienced Romanian crew that claimed gold. However, GB delivered a commanding race to finish approximately seven seconds clear of Australia, who took the bronze medal position. Their silver-medal success reflects the tremendous commitment and talent of both athletes.
Shiplake was also proudly represented in the Women's Eight by Aaliyah Hall, plus Old Vikings Annunciata Ings and Alice Dargue, with the crew expertly coxed by Charlie Watkins and coached by Shiplake's own Mr Dan Safdari. In a highly competitive field, the British Eight rowed brilliantly to secure the bronze medal, finishing five seconds ahead of Italy in fourth place. Romania claimed gold, with Germany taking silver, but the GB crew showed great resilience and determination to earn a place on the podium. The achievement was particularly special given the strong Shiplake influence throughout the crew and coaching team.
Adding to the celebrations, Mr Dave Currie was selected to coach the Great Britain Men's Eight, the crew delivered a dominant performance to secure the gold medal.
A Summer to Rememeber
From international match racing in France to European success in Switzerland and world championship medals in Bulgaria, Shiplake College has enjoyed an extraordinary summer of rowing achievement. The performances of S Lee, B Maggs, Miles Vann, Flynn Burrow, Barney Doyle, Isis Thurnham, Ottilie Campbell-Reide, Aaliyah Hall, Annunciata Ings, Alice Dargue, Charlie Watkins, together with the contributions of Mr Safdari and Mr Currie, showcase the depth of talent, commitment and rowing excellence that continues to make Shiplake one of the leading rowing schools in the world. Congratulations to all involved on their outstanding achievements and their proud representation of both Great Britain and Shiplake College.
