After a particularly brutal trials procedure
which included a time trial, a pairs matrix, 17 x 1500m pieces, 12 x
1250m pieces (plus all the paddling in between) and 8
(!) individual seat races over 5 days, I am delighted to inform the
club that Ryan Mitchell has been selected to represent GB at the Junior
World Rowing Championships in Bulgaria in August!
Ryan - seen here in the 2 seat of the Wyfolds Four at Henley
The first day saw a time trial over 2km in pairs in which Ryan raced with a boy from King’s Chester. They finished in 12th
place which was enough to place them in the B matrix. After a further 5
races, swapping pairs partners every time, Ryan had climbed up to
finish in 2nd place. The boys then moved into 4s to start the
seat racing procedure. Racing over 1500m, the boys are swapped at
random times to see how much impact they have in each boat. A lucky
break when a rower dropped out ill meant that Ryan stayed in the top
boats and went on to win 3 seat races in a row, putting him in
contention for the Worlds team. From then on it was a stressful few days
as he was tested against those surrounding him in the rankings but
ultimately he came out on top, claiming the last spot on the 14 man team
(7 on each side) with the last race of the trials. The final crews will
be decided next week as they move to the GB rowing lake at Caversham
for some ‘paddling’.
Ryan
produced an incredibly impressive display this week, working himself
into the ground to create and then take the opportunity for the Worlds
team. No other boy at the entire trial was seat raced or tested as much
and he entirely deserves not only his place but the accolades placed on
him by the other coaches. It was a pleasure to listen to their praise of
his attitude, commitment, desire as well as his rowing ability. I’m
sure the whole club will agree with me when I say this is a fantastic
achievement and we wish Ryan all the best over the next few weeks as he
prepares to compete for his country!
Helen Taylor
