The Junior Inter-Regional Regatta is an annual competition for rowers between the ages 14 to 16 years old are given the chance to represent their area at a national competition. On the 20th April 2024, crews representing 13 regions in Britain competed against each other across 29 events at Hole Pierrepoint County Park which is home of the National Water Sport Centre. This year Thames Upriver took the win overall and received the Dame Di Ellis DBE Shield. 

Children across England, Scotland and Wales represented their region for a chance to win points to the overall table and collecting a cool t-shirt for participating. This year, Scotland was added as a region and got 5th overall on their debut; 3rd in the girl's category. Many recalls having a thrilling and joyous experience school, clubs and coaches alike. 

To develop a better understanding in what athletes, go through on their race day, I interviewed a few people about their experience and the atmosphere "It feels like a real sense of community, as were all together in one place doing the same thing," the teamwork, drive and determination encourages friendly team spirit and a drive to success. Another participant apart of Mossbourne Rowing Club which is representing Thames South East. 

"I moved school for rowing. That's how I got into my school here, the school that I go to. We had to get a place for rowing so, otherwise I would be on the wait list." 

The competition based in Nottingham attracted many spectators and participants from all over England. One club saying how they travelled three hours and another for 6! The love for rowing and passion for the sport was appealing to many young competitors to get an entry in the competitive side of rowing.  

A great experience for all no matter returning victorious or empty handed; it was a great day out with beautiful weather. Now, many clubs are look towards the future of competitions as summer arrives and regatta season begins. Summer training with lovely weather and many big competitions encourage many children to pursue their passion and tap into their competitive side.