Fourteen members of Durham ARC flew the flag for the Northern Region and travelled to Lithuania to compete in the World Masters Rowing Regatta on Lake Galve at Trakai from 4 – 7 September. The boats were trailered by four members each taking their turn at the wheel.
Numerous events were entered and after some exciting racing and close finishes there were two gold medal wins. Gold was won on Friday by the ME 8+ crew of Derek Gordon, John Appleby, John Watkinson, Julian Ringer, David Walker, Martin Judson, Mickey Stevens, Paul Stanley and cox Emma Watcham. They won their 1000m race, leading from start to finish, beating two crews from Germany and one from Japan. This rounds off a very successful 2008 summer season for the veterans as four members of the 8+ have also won gold at the National Veteran Championships of GB and Henley Veteran Regatta in a coxed four.
On Sunday Hazel Stainforth and John Appleby won gold in the Mxd F 2x, again leading from start to finish, beating South Africa, Denmark and Hungary.
Durham ARC would like to hear from anyone, of any age, who is interested in coxing. As a cox you will learn about the sport of rowing and being in a crew, share in the thrill of racing and the spoils of victory as well as making many new friends. If you think this could be you contact Club Captain, Phill Tully on 07752373032.