Hastings Rowing Club Kicks Off the Season at Dover’s Viking Shield Regatta

Hastings Rowing Club launched into the new racing season in style at the annual Viking Shield Regatta in Dover, enjoying glorious sunshine, competitive racing, and a fantastic team atmosphere throughout the day.

With crews competing across multiple categories, the club delivered a series of strong performances, highlighting both the depth of talent within the squad and the hard work put in over the winter months.

Leading the results, J. Webb secured an excellent second place in the Open Novice Sculls, while C. Ashcroft powered her way to third place in the Women’s Novice Sculls. In the Open Senior Pairs, J. Webb and R. Rebek combined effectively to claim a well-earned third place finish, marking a strong early-season performance.

The Women’s Novice Fours saw two Hastings crews take to the water. I. Vysniauskaite, A. Loweth, H. Price and K. Webb, coxed by V. Kidd, finished eighth in a competitive field. Close behind, F. Soopraya, C. Ashcroft, R. Dyer and V. Clarke, coxed by C. Chatfield, secured ninth place, gaining valuable racing experience.

In the Women’s Masters Fours 40+ event, C. Lucent, V. Clarke, F. Soopraya and S. Hulson, coxed by V. Kidd, delivered a strong and consistent row to finish fourth. R. Rebek also represented the club in the Open Junior Sculls, finishing ninth after a determined effort.

While the results were impressive, the day was equally about teamwork, support, and club spirit. From early morning preparations to the final races, the energy across the squad was clear to see, both on the water and along the beach.

A huge thank you goes to the 24th Hastings Scouts for generously providing the minibus, ensuring smooth transport for both crews and equipment. Their support plays an important role in enabling the club to attend events and compete throughout the season.

Special thanks also go to Regatta Secretary Colin Chatfield, Captain Vicky Kidd, and Vice Captain Kim Webb for their hard work behind the scenes in organising the trip and ensuring everything ran seamlessly. Appreciation is also extended to P. Smith for capturing the day through a fantastic set of photographs.

Finally, a big thank you to all supporters who came down to cheer on the crews—their encouragement added to an already brilliant atmosphere.

With such a strong and positive start, Hastings Rowing Club now looks ahead with confidence and excitement to the rest of the racing season.