The 6th year of the Northern Explore Series got off to a rather uncertain start at Hexham on Sunday March 5th, the previous day’s rising water level on the Tyne causing some concern. After 2 safety inspections and a hastily prepared contingency plan of moving to another venue the go-ahead was finally given by the Hexham safety advisor on Sunday morning, much to the relief of the 17 teams taking part.
The sun shone and rowers from 8 clubs convened on Tyne Green, with Gateshead Community Rowing Club making their first sortie. After welcoming new and old to the fray racing commenced at noon over a 250m course with novice crews sharing four stable quads, two provided by Talkin Tarn and two by the host club. Progress was hampered by the difficult boating conditions, meaning that the number of races was reduced to 3 each as opposed to the more usual 4, to meet the stipulated 4pm finish time.
Cakes and bacon sandwiches were consumed in quantity, raffle prizes collected and everyone, winners and losers alike, went home happy. The format has much to its credit not least that it doesn’t rely on the deployment of boat trailers from far and wide. The event is open to new rowers, recreational rowers, returning rowers and retired racers. For more on the format see Northern Rowing website.
