The ChChBC Women's First Eight have won their first ever Headship

We are delighted to share that W1 have cemented their place as Head of the River, the first ever ChChBC Women's Headship!

This achievement builds on the achievements of many past rowers, coxes, coaches, and supporters, and the winning crew hope to mark this achievement with an event for both current and alumni Boat Club members.

Whilst W1 are the stars of this year's VIIIs campaign, it has been an incredible year for all our crews. They are identifiable on the river not only by the dark blue they wear with pride, but by their unwavering strength, dedication, and camaraderie. 

Report on Summer VIIIs 2023

(Thanks to Ayman D'Souza, President)

Despite rowing long and strong, W3 (63 --> 66) were caught up to by some rapid crews including a blades-winning Peters W2. These rowers have, however, exemplified the hard work and unity that bonds a Christ Church Boat Club crew, and finished Eights ranked 66th overall, the third highest W3 behind Wolfson and Univ. We look forward to them coming back even harder and faster in 2024.

W2 (37 --> 34) had an incredible week, bumping three days back to back. But, they had their blades snatched away from them at the last minute as they chased St Antony’s W1 right down to the wire on Saturday afternoon. Good crews go +3, lucky crews get blades – unfortunately our W2 were the former. They finish ranked an excellent 34th overall, and as second highest W2 (with the highest W2 fast-falling from above!).

M2 (26 --> 28) found themselves as the first slice of bread in a tantalising 3-boat sandwich on the final day, being chased by Corpus Christi M1 who themselves were hotly pursued by Pembroke M2. The crew held off Corpus to put in a strong row over, and end Eights as the second highest M2 boat, in 28th place.

M1 (2 --> 2) put in a strong effort to walk on Oriel, but the age-old rivals evaded us this time. Men’s 1st Division ended with all top 8 crews rowing over, and a strong display of the health and strength of College Rowing. M1 now look to composite with Wolfson, as we target qualification for the Temple Challenge Cup at Henley Royal Regatta, looking to beat Cambridge college crews and a Lightweight Blue Boat – OUBC 3rd VIII composite.

W1 (2 --> 1) were of course the highlight of the week, and sealed the deal on our first ever Women’s Headship on Saturday evening, rowing over with lengths of clear water. If you weren’t able to make it down, this footage from one of our members can transport you back:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bqwk71hVcu0. Our women won in effortless style, and the club could not be prouder of the crew for bringing home our second Headship this year. 

2023 has been a spectacular year for the Christ Church Boat Club, with HRR still to come. With our crews hungry to claim 4/4 Headships, 2024 promises just as much festivity!