by Team Leader Julia Mazur

September Nottingham Regatta was a resounding success for Reading Canoe Club, with an impressive 42 competitors taking part across 127 entries and 193 seats. The club’s strong participation placed them among the top, matching Elmbridge Canoe Club in entries, surpassing Richmond’s 124 entries by three, and only being topped by Weybridge Canoe Club’s 139 entries. The competition was fierce as clubs battled for the prestigious MacGregor Cup, and while the final results are yet to be announced, Reading Canoe Club celebrated 2 memorable days on the water.

One of the highlights of the event was seeing 10 new juniors making their debut, supported by 8 returning Men/Masters competitors. The atmosphere throughout the regatta was electric, with incredible team spirit on full display. While more experienced juniors took the initiative to mentor and assist the newcomers, showing remarkable sportsmanship, Phoebe Harbridge and Patrick Fillingham worked very hard to ensure they felt confident and prepared for their races throughout the days. The support from the club’s coaches and parents was invaluable, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all.

In addition to the excitement of the races, Reading Canoe Club celebrated a record number of athlete promotions, marking a major milestone for the team. Those promoted include:

The regatta was a testament to the club’s exceptional camaraderie and dedication, with athletes, coaches, and supporters all coming together to create a fantastic atmosphere. Reading Canoe Club not only showcased their competitive edge but also their incredible team spirit, which will undoubtedly carry them forward to even greater success in the future.