Hitting The River Tyne this weekend, BUCS Head is the culmination of UK rowing clubs' long months of winter training.
An annual fixture in the rowing calendar, BUCS 4s and 8s Head is co-hosted by Newcastle University Boat Club, Tyne Amateur RC and Tyne United RC for the fourth year in a row.
The Head competition format sees crews race down the course in a time-trial style to post the quickest time in each category. Championship and Intermediate crews take to the water on Saturday to battle the five-kilometre stretch of water, whilst the Beginner crews feature on Sunday over a shorter three-kilometre course. The action kicks off at 10:30 am on the Saturday and 2:30 pm on the Sunday, with medal presentations at 4:30 pm.
As Storm Dennis continues to batter the country, BUCS Head is bound to be a testing affair in choppy conditions. With wind speeds climbing, the race’s organising committee is monitoring the forecasts and conditions, admitting the chance of postponement. A final decision will be announced by midday this Thursday 20th February, BUCS confirmed via Twitter.
Speaking to Newcastle University, Director of Sport, Colin Blackburn spoke of his anticipation for the weekend:
“We are delighted to be once again hosting the Bucs 4’s and 8’s Head on the River Tyne in partnership with BUCS and two local rowing clubs.”
“The event will showcase the strength and depth of University rowing with over 500 crews scheduled to race over the weekend, including several international athletes.”
A historically triumphant competition for Newcastle University’s Blue Star, hopes will be high for a swoop of medals at the weekend. If you’re keen on heading down, the action can be caught from the NUBC boathouse at Newburn Bridge.