The East Midlands Regatta, a new event for 2011, looks set to be a feature of the rowing calendar in future years following the success of its first outing.

The regatta, which took place on 11th June at the National Water Sports Centre, Holme Pierrepont, in Nottingham was a collaboration between 4 of the major East Midlands clubs, Nottingham,Derby,Newark and Loughborough.

Staged the day before the British Masters, the event attracted clubs from not only across the Midlands but also further afield with rowers coming from Manchester club Trafford RC and Tyne United in the North East.

Judging by the glowing review published on the Tyne United website, the event more than managed to achieve its goals. The aim of the new regatta was to stage a friendly yet high profile 1000m event in the East Midlands catering for all levels and ages of rowers.

Participants enjoyed cool, dry and bright conditions with a breeze rising in the afternoon – a complete contrast to the Masters event the following day which saw heavy rain from mid-morning onwards. The only hitch in the day came about from a delayed start due to the course lanes being laid out for canoes and not for rowing. This was remedied and thanks to the efforts of the starters and marshalls the event was back on track by late morning.

A total of 137 crews from more than 15 clubs participated through the day. Local clubs Nottingham, Newark and Derby achieved considerable success with Nottingham just beatingNewark for the most pots with their 8 wins.

‘I really liked this one. Not only was it (another) good day for the club but it was just nice. There were some really good touches, such as ensuring anyone in an event with heats got at least two rows (going either to the final or to a repêchage) and the presenting of pots while in the boat. First time I’ve had this and it made it feel really special.

The whole atmosphere was chilled and especially the umpires – never had such polite, friendly and chatty people controlling a regatta. Holding it at a major facility and having (for Nottingham) pretty good weather obviously helped but I do hope they do the same next year. This was a great warm up event for the Masters the following day.

My favourite comment of the day came from one of the Duke of Edinburgh volunteers (they were really great by the way) – it was along the lines of I’ve learnt the colours for Leicester and Milton Keynes today – they’re the ones winning everything”! Nice to know we’ve made an impact.

Rob Heywood – Milton
Keynes Rowing Club.

Event organiser and Regatta Secretary Peter Kinnell of Loughborough Boat Club hailed the event a resounding success.

‘We are delighted with how the first East Midlands Regatta ran.  I have received positive feedback from fellow organisers, volunteers and more importantly the competitors. Many crews have commented on the presentation of pots while still in the boats, It’s marvellous to know the little details which really make a difference.’ He added. ‘We can now look forward to  next years East Midlands Regatta , and lets hope that 2012 can be a success of Olympic proportions.’