The first competitive event of the season ended with mixed result for UCDBC. The event played out over the course of two heads on the river Lagan in Belfast. In the first head, which was raced over a 2700 metre course, the second novice coxed four finished third overall in a time of 11:59, good enough to claim victory in their category. The senior pair of Dave Neale and Finbar Manning also won their event, although it is clear that we are yet to see the best this powerful pairing has to offer. Tom Doyle also sculled well in the inter single sculls event.
In the second head, raced over 4200 metres, UCD?s senior eight finished third behind two Queen?s eights. The performance was a slightly erratic one, with some patches of strong fluid rowing being marred by inconsistency. Despite the disappointing outcome, much can be gained by the experience of racing. Although Lagan 2010 head will go down in the records as a defeat, it has provided both coach and crew with an insight into the areas which must be given focus in training, and perhaps future victories will rise from the lessons learned. The second novice novices added to their win in the coxed four by claiming victory the novice eights event. Their performance is indicative of the strong work ethic which exists with their squad.
UCDBC now turn their attention towards the Gannon cup. The absence of any Trinity men?s crews at Lagan gives this year?s colours race a unique flavour: when the UCD and Trinity eights line up beside each other at O?Connell bridge on the 6th of March, it shall be the first meeting of the two crews all season. Tensions are sure to mount in both camps as these old rivals once again prepare to go head to head in this decades old event. For all the latest information visit: www.gannoncup.com