COMING UP:

FLEET:

Ye White Hart and Hamhaugh Island are both back in the boatshop. They have nice smooth shiny undersides so let's try and keep them that way please. The Hart will be rigged as a double and the Hamhaugh as a Pair. Cygnets is also back but the Alan Cox is now away for a bit of TLC on it's underside.

BIT OF A HITCH:

Best Wishes to Doctors French and Baldwin both of whom will be married men the next time most of us see them (assuming they're allowed out to play of course).

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Ah, what the heck, have a week off.

On behalf of the captaincy I'd like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Enjoy!

If you have been, time for a new sign-off next year methinks.

Neil.

Captain's Log, 12/12

Attendance at midweek training has started to drop-off a little as the party season begins its drunken stumble towards Christmas. Nevertheless there's still plenty of enthusiasm for outings with coached eights, fours and singles variously all out this weekend on a very busy and fast-flowing Tideway. Just for once the weather stayed on our side too.

We voted in six new members at Sunday's committee meeting, including a coxswain and there are two eights worth of names up for the Head already with a few 'big guns' still to sign-up. All good.

THIS WEEK...

COMING UP:

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK - Reporting bad practice:

Obviously minor navigation errors and the odd wash are all part and parcel of life on the river but if you see something particularly stupid happening out there, do please let us know and get a boat ID number if possible. We will either (ideally) contact the club captain and have a quiet word or if it's considered serious enough then we will put in an official report to Bill Mitchell. Bill 'filters' official reports and those deemed worthy are periodically peer reviewed by Tideway club members to decide what, if any action is required. It's a bit sad that it's come to this but of that's what it takes to convince the PLA that we're getting our house in order. Remember some people live for this sort of thing so be careful out there.

If you have been, better start the wrapping.

Neil.

Captain's Log, 04/12

I think that most of the fastest Cygnet Fours Head boat must have decided to retire in a blaze of glory as they haven't been seen since, but never-the-less enough boys for two eights again on Saturday. This time we were able to boat both plus a coaching launch - double Hurrah! All very encouraging.

Numerous up-river Heads have had to be cancelled recently due to dangerous conditions but the Scullers Head went off as planned on Saturday and despite the now traditional blousing-out (there's always one) Cygnet still saw 6 scullers take to the water to compete. Conditions were great and made for a fast race but it was a long, long row back against that stream. Our WSA, Chris Davidson took the honors amongst the Cygnet contingent with a very respectable 137 finish. Full results are available at http://www.vrc.org.uk/sh/results.

Sunday dawned and wished it hadn't, being lashed by wind and rain again but at least no electrics this week. Despite the rain clearing-up a little the very strong wind remained, blowing-up against the rising tide so we decided that discretion was the better part of valour and did an erg instead (or to put it in the trendy safety parlance: following a comprehensive risk assessment we concluded that due to inclement environmental conditions an outing would not necessarily be in the best interests of the oarsmen or equipment). Many thanks to all the guys who also stayed on after the erg to help give the place a jolly good and long over due tidy-up, particularly in the bar. Probably not what they wanted out of a Sunday morning at the boat club but productive and appreciated none the less.

THIS WEEK...

COMING UP:

IT'S ALL FOR CHARIDEE

From Greg - I'm doing a fundraising swim for Marie Curie Cancer Care. I have family and close friends who are affected by this dreadful affliction. If I may ask you to pass on this email to the squad and hopefully we can raise the desired amount of 333.33 before 23rd March 07 (day after my b-day).

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK - Risk Assessments:

Or as they're generally known - using your common sense. I was a bit tongue-in-cheek above with my reference to Risk Assessments but it is important to remember that we all have a responsibility to take care of ourselves and each other. Particularly at this time of year, conditions can be such that the river is not an especially pleasant or indeed safe place to be. It's always disappointing when outings have to be canned but that's just the way it goes sometimes and almost every other club on the river seemed to take the same view on Sunday morning. Thank the Lord for ergs, eh?

If you have been, you should know better by now.

Neil.

Captain's Log, 29/11

Enough boys on Saturday for two eights, Hurrah! However I was sick last week and consequently remiss in organising a second coxswain so just one eight was accompanied by a quad, a double, an erg, a guest appearance in a ladies boat and a coach. Will do better next week. Fortunately the forecast gale force winds failed to materialise and the river was in reasonable condition. The same cannot be said of Sunday where the early morning rumbles of thunder reduced the turnout somewhat. After a safety delay, an eight finally went afloat at 10.00 and was soaked to the skin within seconds as the heavens opened again the moment the hull touched the water. With only one senior and a reciprocal guest BB lady the mostly novice boat was going rather nicely until more lightning in the distance forced us to spin and row for cover. What are the odds for snow next weekend in time for the Scullers Head?

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK - THE STREAM:

You will have noticed that it's been raining rather heavily. Much of the Upper Thames region has been red flagged and the knock-on effect at our end is a rampant outgoing stream. This is resulting in the relatively unusual situation where the stream overrides the rising tide ie. the tide is rising but the stream is still noticeably flowing out. In these conditions you should row the river as if there is an ebb (outgoing) tide despite it actually being a flood (incoming) tide. Not every river user will know this so extra care and a good lookout are required. Also expect more water in the river, more turbulence, a faster stream and adjustment to the predicted high and low water times. The classic mistake in these conditions is leaving equipment (including the launch) too close to the water because the stream makes it look like the tide is ebbing even though it's actually rising, thus taking kit with it.

If you have been, less than a month to go.

Neil.

Captain's Log, 21/11

At last, all the set crews got out in their chosen combinations on Saturday and with a convenient tide they also got a chance to run over the course. It was remarkably busy on the river however, with an awful lot of other boats (all fours) also making best use of the tide. There were also more than the usual amount of ruddy faced men in launches with megaphones shouting a lot but at least they were kind enough to time our pieces and even take some photos for us. They then posted both on the web at http://www.hor4s.org.uk/. When we got back to the boathouse there was loads of food to pinch...erm...buy and even a barrel of Pride on in the bar. So we had a drop of that. Rather too much in some cases as we debated the finer points of rowing technique and many other fascinating subjects long into the night. Many thanks to everyone for their efforts on Saturday both on and off the water. It all went very well.

The turnout on Sunday was a little less boisterous than expected so only a four and a single went afloat. I'm sure it will be much better next weekend as we get back into some big boats for some back-to-basics technical rowing. I'll send out a separate mail to the squad with some details.

THIS WEEK...

NEW KIT:

Most of this was delivered and distributed during the week with only a couple of guys still to collect. However, despite the enormous lead time Godfrey still spectacularly failed to deliver the whole order on time with the splash-tops still outstanding. Please feel free to phone them on 0115 986 4600 and point out their incompetence.

COMING UP:

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK - Proceeding abreast:

Following on from overtaking last week a word about side-by-side rowing. Normally boats are not allowed to travel abreast on the river but rowing boats have been given special dispensation to do so. It's therefore important no to abuse this privilege. You must not row abreast if by doing so you obstruct other river traffic. You must not row abreast in the inshore zone except for the purposes of overtaking. The maximum number of boats allowed to proceed abreast in the channel is three but only where one of the boats is overtaking. Two boats abreast should never overtake two other boats traveling abreast.

If you have been, that's a weight off my mind.

Neil.

BIRC Berk, 13/11

Very interesting from Matthew. Very depressing from Mike.

Captain's Log, 13/11

Lots of rowing this weekend with all the Head crews getting out in their racing combinations and even a bit of Blue-on-Blue action on Saturday as Cygnets I and II tested each other out. As well as racing fours we also had novice eights, the tub, some singles and a double out over the weekend and I think that they probably all managed to somehow attract the attention of the RWSA. Although to be fair you only have to be afloat for him to be trying to steer your boat from his single 300 yards away!

Ex-captain, Mike "ergmeister" Collier was our sole representative at the BIRC on Sunday finishing a respectable 23rd (from 73) in his category. Well done Mike, although despite a rigorous training programme he didn't manage a PB (but then he's not as young as he use to be). Results from Mike's division are here.

BOATHOUSE SECURITY:

Some less welcome activity this weekend as we had another visit from the dirty, thieving scum-bags. It was a couple of new novice Ladies and the bar that lost out this time. Despite people being around on the hard, they came in through an open window in the Ladies loos. This is the second time in the last couple of months and Emanuel were also turned-over the other week. The police are aware and actively investigating but we mustn't be seen to be a soft touch or it will just continue to happen. Please shut any windows, especially at the back of the building and make sure that the (code) door is properly shut when you leave. Also never leave the bar open and unattended. We also think that we encountered someone trying to blag their way in on Sunday by waiting for the door to be opened from the inside. Please challenge anyone you don't recognise. There are still plenty of small lockers available for a very reasonable L10 deposit if you want somewhere to lock-up your stuff.

THIS WEEK...

FOURS HEAD:

NEW KIT:

If you ordered kit, I'm assured that it will be with me by Wednesday at the very latest. Indeed I may even have it by the time you read this email.

COMING UP:

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK - Overtaking:

This week's top tip from the new Code of Practise for Rowing on the Tideway:

Overtaking should in general be on the outside and the overtaking crew does not have right of way. The onus is on the overtaking crew to do so safely and although the crew being overtaken should maintain it's course and speed it should not baulk the passage of the overtaking crew. Overtaking is not permitted in the restricted zones nor should you overtake if it puts you in the path of oncoming boats.

If you have been, me too.

Neil.

Captain's Log, 06/11

A beautiful, if cold November weekend made for a very busy river and it seemed that there were more coaching launches out on Saturday than there were rowing boats! Many varied outings took place including some whole Fours Head crews, some partial Fours Head crews, some single scullers, a quad and a random eight (with a new cox). All good and thanks, as always to the coaches and coxes for their time.

THIS WEEK...

COMING UP:

BOATHOUSE QUIZ:

It's 18.30 on Saturday, teams of no more than 4, prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, sausage 'n' mash supper, 5 per person. For catering purposes and to register your team please contact katybaldwin[at]hotmail.com. As if you needed any more inducement to spend all day at the boathouse, Geordie is planning an Aunt Bessies and conker afternoon to keep you amused until the quiz starts.

FOURS HEAD:

The full draw is here but from a Cygnet perspective Marj has kindly prepared this ready reckoner:

155   S24-   Cygnet I     Neil,    Brendan, Nick,    Andy
181   S24-   Cygnet II    Geordie, Mark,    Barry,   Balders
351   S34+   Cygnet III   Stu,     Matt,    Chris,   Greg
378   S34+   Cygnet IV    Simon,   Shane,   Richard, Derek

If you're not rowing in the Fours Head any help with this event would be very much appreciated. Jobs include marshaling, launch driving, timing and boating. Full instruction is given and usually a free feed into the bargain. Please let me know if you're available to help or contact Nick Wylie on nickwylie[at]btinternet.com.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

This week's top tip from the new Code of Conduct for rowing on the Tideway:

Rowing vessels must display a continuous white light through 360 degrees. This may comprise two continuous white lights, one forward and one aft to ensure 360 degree visibility (ideally on the canvass or in the number slot). Please remember that lights should be shown if you are afloat before sunrise (times posted at the boathouse) or in very dark conditions even if the sun is officially up.

Remember that all rowing activity is being actively monitored with poor/unsafe navigation and non-compliance with the Code of Conduct being recorded. Instance of poor practice will result in the clubs accumulating points, much like points for bad driving. Too many points will result in disciplinary measures against the club and we certainly don't want that. Be careful out there.

If you have been, I hope you locked your pets indoors.

Neil.

Times, 05/11

The piece below was printed in the times on the 4th October, here's a link to it on The Times website:

Coach who propelled women's rowing

As a coach John Bull made a significant contribution to British women's rowing in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Born in 1912, he started work aged 14 as a Post Office messenger. He began rowing at the Cygnet Rowing Club in the early 1930s, winning pots at Thames Cup level and only pausing for the war years when he served as a Royal Navy telegraphist on minesweepers in the Atlantic and along the D-Day beaches.

The Civil Service Ladies Rowing Club (now Barnes Bridge Ladies) claimed him in 1968. The squad was small, and there was competition from the Rolling Stones, Joan Baez and Vietnam marches. But Bull's monkish diligence and gentlemanly charm produced excellent results. If he said "Stand up in the boat," they stood up; if he said "Balance the blade with your right leg," they did it.

In 1970 his women won the keenly contested Head of River VIIIs, and four of them, rowing for England, won the first Home Countries event at Molesey, while the other four won the Elites at Bedford.

Bull now set his sights on the World Championships and on Olympic events that would not be open to women until later that decade. He prepared the VIII to race internationally at the Bosbaan in Amsterdam, but the British women could not compete with the power of the East Germans, and had more success in single and double sculls. Within a few years, however, Civil Service women in the national squad were training and racing to international success in small boats.

By making it a competitive force, Bull helped to put the women's club on the national scene. In 1972 they recorded more than 30 wins, including the Victor Ludorum trophy at the National Championships and the Barclays Bank Trophy at Nottingham International.

Bull retired from coaching the women in 1973 and returned to his own club, Cygnet, as senior vice-president (and chief consultant for mixed VIIIs crews). Until quite recently he kept a vegetable garden behind the boat shed, with prize-winning runner beans growing up old rowing blades.

John Bull, rowing coach, was born on March 20, 1912. He died on August 18, 2006, aged 94.

Captain's Log, 30/10

After the miracle of all the Fours Head boats getting out in their chosen combinations last week it was back to type this week with only one crew managing to go afloat without a sub and one unable to get out at all. I knew that it was too good to last. However, I am very encouraged by the excellent turnout to weekday training, particularly ergs and circuits. We may not be very well practiced by the Fours Head but boy, we'll be fit - well, as fit as you can get when you spend half the weekend out drinking with the massed Cygnet Mafia.

Of course I'm referring to the annual Vets Lunch at Leander on Saturday which was a great success with almost 70 sitting down to dinner, including an encouraging amount of active members (which we hid around the corner to avoid disturbing the general discourse). The food was exquisite, the company was entertaining, the drink was abundant and the Chairman was absent so copped a lot of abuse. Of course the highlight of the afternoon was my speech which must have been very entertaining because not one single person fell asleep. Result!

There were also loads of singles out enjoying the lovely weather this weekend and once again many thanks to all those who jumped on on Sunday to help get the new novice guys afloat.

THIS WEEK...

COMING UP:

EARLY MORNING OUTINGS:

Now that the clocks have gone back there is light enough to squeeze in an outing before work and there will be a regular Thursday morning slot. If you're interested you know where to be at 7.00 am on a Thursday morning (subject to weather conditions). Please come prepared with lights for your boat and light coloured clothing.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

This week's top tip from the new Code of Conduct for rowing on the Tideway www.thames-rrc.org/rowing-on-the-thames/navigation-on-the-river-thames. When proceeding with the tide you should keep as near as safe and practicable to the starboard edge of the fairway (ie. to your right as a coxswain or to your left as a steersman or if you prefer, bow side). The fairway is marked on the chart in the changing room. This also applies to bridges which you should pass under on the starboard station.

I can't stress enough the seriousness of the whole navigation issue. Remember that all rowing activity is being actively monitored with poor and unsafe navigation being recorded. Instance of poor practice will result in the clubs accumulating points, much like points for bad driving. Too many points will result in disciplinary measures against the club and we certainly don't want that. Be careful out there.

If you have been, avoid the Port next time (both on and off the river).

Neil.

Le Cygne, 29/10

Aaahhhh. Lovely.

Obituary, 29/10

We were supposed to post this a while ago but completely forgot. Here is John Bull's obituary, penned by Ronnie. It can be found on our docs page for posterity and will also be distributed via the next newsletter. Apologies Ronnie!

Weh Hey, 24/10

Some shots of our brave, brave boys competing in last Saturday's Weybridge Silver Sculls. We suspect it's a trick of the light but a couple of them almost look like they know what they're doing!

Captain's Log, 23/10

Amazingly all the Fours Head boats got out in their chosen combinations at least once this weekend albeit at various different times so coaching was a bit sporadic. Other than that various other fours, quads, doubles and singles also went for a spin making for a busy weekend on the river at you favorite Civil Service rowing club. Many thanks to all those who hung around on both days to help get the new novice guys and new novice coxswain afloat, your continued support is much appreciated.

Saturday afternoon saw a small contingent of three Cygnets make the well worn journey out to Weybridge with some single sculls. For once it wasn't for a sculling camp but for a race - the Weybridge Silver Sculls. There was a bit of friendly inter club competition between Chris, myself and Richard and that starting order didn't change by the finish but we all enjoyed the race and were pleased with the results despite: (Chris) hitting the bank, (me) not catching Chris and (Richard) going for a swim whilst attempting to land. To be fair to Richard the water lapping over Weybridge Ladies hard was appalling due to the rampaging torrent coming over the fully open weir. Weybridge RC were having to carry all their singles around because the couldn't scull across the standing waves from weir stream! Nevertheless it was a great event on familiar water and hopefully we'll get a few more competitors along next year. Many thanks to Alan, Sam, Marj and Nick for their support. Full results are here and there should be some photos as well.

There was also a very good turnout on Sunday for the Pairs Head prize-giving, which had the added bonus of the Shed getting a good clean and loads of leftover food. Brilliant.

THIS WEEK...

COMING UP:

EARLY MORNING OUTINGS:

Once the clocks go back there will be light enough to squeeze in an outing before work. A few of us single scullers are looking at a regular Thursday morning slot to get in some practice for the Scullers Head. If you're interested you know where to be at 7am on a Thursday morning (subject to weather conditions). Please come prepared with lights for your boat and light coloured clothing.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

This week's top tip from the new Code of Conduct for rowing on the Tideway. Nice and easy this week - Keep a good lookout. It's arguably the most important thing you have to do and may seem obvious but you'd be amazed how many people don't. A good lookout should involve looking alternatively over each shoulder at least every five strokes and that means a proper look along your course not just a cursory glance over the shoulder. If people keep a proper look out there should never be a clash or even a near miss again.

If you have been, me too.

Neil

Eyes On The Prize, 22/10

A really good turnout at today's Pairs Head prizegiving with drinks and sandwiches being served in the bar prior to the ceremony which was held in a spotless (Cygnet scrubbed) shed.

Continuing the trend of inviting a prominent female rower to present the prizes the race committee were able to secure the services of Olympic medallist & GB squad member Elise Laverick, who smiled gamely throughout.

Eliot George was in attendance as the official photographer and the pictures are already available for purchase on his website. Not only a great buy for the winners themselves, they are also perfect for playing that famous Victorian parlour-game "Locate The Lurking Lady". Ten points if you can spot Theresa picking her nose...

Camera 1 pictures. Camera 2 pictures.

Captain's Log, 16/10

Many thanks to everybody who turned up to help, support or race in the Pairs Head on Saturday. Tea was brewed, sandwiches filled, cakes baked, burgers flipped and profits turned - there was even some racing to watch at the same time, nice. The webmaster has kindly summarised the Cygnet results on the blog already but for those of you without cyberspace access here they are again:

[Removed, see below - Ed]

Full results are here and doubtless there will be some photos as well.

There may a been a few unpleasant heads on Sunday morning to match the unpleasant water but two fours and a double ventured out as training began somewhat unearnestly for the next big Tideway event, the Fours Head in just over a months time. Crews have been selected and true to form, the odds of getting the whole crew together in the same place at the same time are very long indeed. 'Tis the Cygnet way.

THIS WEEK...

COMING UP:

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

This week's top tip from the new Code of Conduct for rowing on the Tideway: When crossing the river you should do so as quickly, safely and as near to 90 degrees to the bank as possible. You should not cross within a Restricted Zone nor in front of oncoming traffic and may have to wait before crossing. Never overtake a boat waiting to cross. http://www.thames-rrc.org/rowing-on-the-thames/navigation-on-the-river-thames/

If you have been, not in front of the RWSA please.

Neil.

Pairs, 14/10

Another Pairs Head has been and gone and from where we sat this one looks to have been the slickest yet. Early arrivals had the numbers collection point up and serving before 8am with the Bridge's catering effort kicking in shortly after. The weather was great (which helped) but even so if the effort and organisation shown this morning continues throughout the season (and is reflected in training) it promises to be a good one.

Full results can be found on the Pairs Head website, below is a summary of all of ours:

S1   2- Neil & Nick                10th in 13:50.8
S4   2x Stu & Simon                22nd in 14:25.7
S4   2x Davo & Rich                17th in 14:51.5
S3   2- Bates & Petey              29th in 15:06.6
MxS3 2x Chris J & Lockhart (Deben) 6th  in 15:11.7
MxS4 2x Neil J & Hazel (no club)   8th  in 16:04.8

Vets Final Call, 11/10

A final reminder for the Vets Lunch at Leander on Saturday 28th October. This "star-studded" event always proves to be "good fun" & it would be "great" if a few more of the active members went along. Remember that "a Cygnet Vet is only as old as the woman he feels" (that's not supposed to be depressing).

Follow this link for full details and contact philip [dot] beckett [at] dti [dot] gov [dot] uk without delay.

FOR THE PRIVATELY EDUCATED
Canapes
***
Crisp fillet of sea bass with lightly spiced mung bean combo, Pernod beurre blanc
or
Salad of avocado and melon with Jerusalem artichoke and fresh thyme
or
Char-grilled Mediterranean vegetables with pesto and pasta
***
Herb crusted saddle of lamb, confit of garlic and artichoke, marinated cherry tomatoes, rainbow chard leaf and jus naturale
***
Seasonal berry Pavlova with lavender ice cream, blackcurrant coulis and pistachio crystals
***
Coffee with Leander chocolates

FOR THE COMPREHENSILVELY EDUKATED
Twiglets
***
Fish finger, baked beans, salt, pepper
or
A gherkin
or
Tinned carrots (singed), gravy
***
Lamb chop (dropped and trodden into floor), funny jam, greens, hot water
***
Knickerbockerglory or neopolitan ice cream (or both)
***
Builders tea, dunkers

"Even Theresa's going."

Captain's Log, 10/10

Despite all of the captaincy and coaches being away I understand that there was some rowing over the weekend, despite some very low tides. The same couldn't be said of the Rhine which was the fullest I've seen it in five years and with a stiff NW breeze, the worst marathon conditions in a long time apparently. Alas Cygnet A couldn't hold onto the fastest overseas crew title that we won last year. Even with the [dodgy] excuse of having shipped a huge amount of water early on that took nearly 10km to pump out, we were well beaten into second place by a quad from our old Irish adversaries, Fermoy RC. I think last year's defeat must have hit them hard as their 'A' crew this year drafted-in a ringer from the Irish National Squad and a chap who flew in especially from Russia! Cygnet B were less troubled by the conditions in their extra wide 'ship's gig' and posted a very respectable time for a mixed sweep boat.

After that things went pretty much to form: bier was drunk, sausages were eaten and class winners politely applauded - even Fermoy as I handed them 'our' trophy. This year Christoph had arranged another Vaddle but unlike the previous effort we actually managed to stop at a couple of bars this time! After that thing went pretty much to form: more bier was drunk, lumps of pig were eaten and heavy metal bars were visited. Needless to say we missed breakfast on Sunday but that's pretty much to form as well! Many thanks to our hosts at RG Benrath and my fellow Cygnets (and token BB lady) for another enjoyable weekend in Dusseldorf. Results and photos coming soon.

THIS WEEK...

PAIRS HEAD:

This starts at 10.30 on Saturday and the River will be closed from 10.00 so I'd like outings to be done by 9.30. That means for this week only it will have to be 8am outings. It would be appreciated if people could hang around during the race to cheer on the Cygnet crews and generally make themselves useful - I'm still looking for a launch driver please. Be aware that there will be lots of visiting crews around the boathouse so please lock-up or remove your valuables on Saturday.

COMING UP:

VETS LUNCH:

Don't be put-off by the name, this event is open to all members and is is highly recommended. If you were thinking of going but haven't got round to it yet, please do so now as time is running out. Details and application forms are available on the website of from Phil Beckett - contact philip.beckett [at] dti [dot] gov [dot] uk.

CLIMBING:

The ladies have been looking into some 'cross training'. A Group climbing session has been booked for a taster session on Monday 13th November at 7.30pm - 9pm. 12 places available, so first come first served. Cost will be GBP15 plus GBP3 registration. If you have climbed before and are able to register ie: demonstrate that you are able to put a harness on correctly, tie in with an appropriate knot and belay safely, then you are welcome to go down and register whenever you like. If you pass, then you can go in and climb whenever, so can conceivably climb alongside the group on the 13th. Normal entry is GBP8 at peak times and a one-off registration fee of GBP3. Let me know if you wish to be included on the 13th.

KIT:

Go to the Kit link on the Cygnet homepage. Place your order online by the 14th October and Godfrey will collate all the orders and apply any discounts where there are multiple items. The kit will then all be delivered to my address thus saving on postage as well (do be aware that when you place an on-line order the automated response will indicate that you'll be charged the full price for one item. Don't panic, as long as someone else orders the same thing you will be charged the discounted rate). Unfortunately the Helly Hanson tops are no longer being sold by Godfrey but a suitable (similar) replacement has been posted.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

The new Code of Conduct for rowing on the Tideway came into force on Friday 6th October - http://www.thames-rrc.org/rowing-on-the-thames/navigation-on-the-river-thames/. This week's top tip from the code: If at low tide you can't get between the bank and any of the upstream buoys then you must stop and spin. You should not proceed upstream as the lack of water inside the buoy indicates that there is not enough water in the river for safe navigation upstream of that buoy.

If you have been, get a bigger pump.

Neil.

Vet Novice, 10/10

There used to be a website called veteran-rowing.org, but it has been defunct for several months now, which is a shame as it featured a year or so ago quite prominently in an article in Regatta magazine.

It was targeted particularly towards Veteran Novice rowers, rather than veteran rowers in general.

Well a new site www.rowvetnov.org.uk has been created in its place. Apparently there is no commercial interest involved, it is basically a forum/message board to enable VN rowers to find other clubs with similar sqauds, arrange to meet up, discover which events are accepting VN entries and so forth.

We've added a link to our links page (see left) so if it applies give it a go!

Early Rhine, 09/10

Our roving insect correspondent with a few choice words on this year's Rhine trip...

The Race:

A complement of 10 hit the Rhine: 8 rowers, 1 Only Here For The Bier and 1 Only Here For The Killepitsch (and possibly here for some of the Benrath boys too). The Rhine hit back with the worst water in Alan Cox's experience - which is a lot of experience, from a variety of angles. The mixed in-rigger crew tackled this by using a boat as wide as it was long, with seats so staggered it was possible for the cox to walk down the aisle and serve tea. The heavy mens sweep tackled this by rowing slowly with 150kg of ballast (plus bow pair). So we relinquished our beloved Fastest Overseas Trophy to a bunch of Fermoy ringers. But it's not the winning, it's the taking part.

The Vaddle:

This year we managed to drink something on the Vaddle, which made it even more successful than last years attempt. The painstakingly planned itinerary allowed us to wait for a wide variety of Düsseldorf's enviable public transport options, without actually using any. An instructive tour of different Altbiers, or for Wyatt: jugettes, or for Petey: a long and fruitless attempt to get a Jim Beam. But it's not the drinking, it's the taking part. Apparently.

The Rest:

Lots of pig in a variety of formats, a slab of heavy metal, too much Killepitsch (i.e. some), an hour on Düsseldorf Airport's observation terrace (where captain Pickford plumbed new depths by becoming an Aircraft-Spotters-Expensive-Camera Spotter), a toblerone, and an enormous slice of Benrath hospitality. Does it get any better than that?

...perhaps only when the midges are swarming over the hard as the autumnal sun sets behind the boathouse. Or something.

RR Results, 03/10

French David has kindly collated all our Rowers' Revenge results into the handy table below:

Pos	Bib	Name	Club/Org	Row	Bike	Run	Result
44	247	Nick WYATT	Cygnet	0:15:20.74	0:51:06.39	0:29:32.58	1:35:59.71
79	240	Neil PICKFORD	Cygnet	0:16:11.84	0:51:18.70	0:32:43.27	1:40:13.81
98	243	Nick BATES	Cygnet	0:15:43.71	0:52:30.70	0:33:52.14	1:42:06.56
109	242	Mark WILSON	Cygnet	0:17:15.36	0:50:35.33	0:35:24.60	1:43:15.29
122	244	Michael FRENCH	Friend	0:16:39.59	0:54:27.51	0:33:20.12	1:44:27.22
218	239	Peter LEFFLER	Cygnet	0:17:33.32	0:53:19.95	0:42:11.28	1:53:04.55
233	237	David FRENCH	Cygnet	0:15:53.22	0:58:50.07	0:39:54.71	1:54:38.00
236	246	Pete SHIRLEY	Friend	0:17:19.69	1:02:26.00	0:35:04.38	1:54:49.61
242	235	Marc BALDWIN	Cygnet	0:16:44.60	0:56:59.61	0:41:52.81	1:55:37.02
303	238	Peter HUMPHRIES	Cygnet	0:16:43.44	1:07:13.09	0:38:01.03	2:01:57.56
317	236	Mike COLLIER	Cygnet	0:17:31.05	0:58:44.83	0:47:10.73	2:03:26.60
343	42	Marjorie ISRAEL	Cygnet	0:20:38.73	0:59:48.91	0:48:08.05	2:08:35.69
358	44	Margaret BOWLING	BBLRC	0:18:32.87	1:09:33.13	0:47:08.27	2:15:14.26

Conditions didn't make for particularly fast times but even so we suspect that (with only a 4-minute margin of victory) we might be seeing the beginning of the commencement of the prelude to the decline of Wyatt (Minor). Watch this space.

Captain's Log, 03/10

The weather this weekend seemed to confirm that winter season is finally upon us but an eight and 3 pair/doubles managed to avoid the worst of it on Saturday morning. I can't vouch for Sunday outings as I was in Marlow with a large chunk of the squad (plus guests) as Cygnet put in another strong showing at the Rowers Revenge Triathlon. I can however, vouch that the weather was pretty awful and conditions made for a much slower race this year. Predictably Super Nick led the charge for Cygnet but the chasing pack finished closer to him than ever before. He is not amused. Full results on the Rowers' Revenge website.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

COXSWAINS:

I have a list in front of me with 17 new and novice rowers! Great news for the club but not much good if we can't get them on the water because we only have one full time cox. Marj is good but she's not that good and although we do have various part-time and ad hoc coxing offers we really are at a point where we need another regular full time coxswain. Mike is working with one new contact but if you know of another who might be suitable then please do let us know. We'll provide training in all the necessary aspects of Tideway coxing

KIT:

With the Fours Head coming-up now seems like a good time to put in a fresh order for kit. Remember you have to have a Cygnet all-in one if you're going to race for us and you'll need appropriate warm kit for winter on the water. For the uninitiated, our kit is supplied by Godfrey and can be ordered via our kit page. All you have to do is place your order online by the specified date and Godfrey will collate all the orders and apply any discounts where there are multiple items. The kit will then all be delivered to one address thus saving on postage as well (do be aware that when you place an on-line order the automated response will indicate that you'll be charged the full price for one item. Don't panic, as long as someone else orders the same thing you will be charged the discounted rate). Please put your on-line kit orders in by 14th October.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

The new Code of Conduct for rowing on the Tideway comes into force on Friday 6th October. I intend to draw your attention to the salient points in this section each week so without further ado: probably the most significant change is the introduction of restricted zones around all the bridges. It's really quite simple; no stopping, turning, crossing or overtaking within a restricted zone. The zones are marked in red on our nice shiny new map in the changing room. The information is also available here.

If you have been, only 84 shopping days until Christmas!

Neil.

How Bad Can It Be, 01/10

It did the blog's heart good to see so many Cygnet's (10), friends (2) & BB Ladies (1) at today's Rowers' Revenge Triathlon down in Marlow. Results will be on their website soon no doubt. We think we were the best represented RC in the event and feel sure that our results will reflect this!

Goodbye, 29/09

A few of the older lags made the trip into Soho last night to say farewll to ex-captain Steve Keating as he finally leaves his London-based job to go to Nottingham full time.

For those that don't remember (98% of Barnes Bridge for example), Steve was captain for the 2003/4 season and went on to represent Cygnet (along with Simon French) in the first of our Goblets boats at Henley 2004.

Steve would obviously prefer to be remembered for these positive things, but we will remember him best as the ex-captain who flew to Prague dressed as Wonder Woman, pi**ed up a local's trouser leg, legged it but was eventually caught and detained by Prague's finest whilst he sobered up. A truly class act.

We wish Steve all the best in provincial Nottingham. Here are some of our favourite shots of him in "action"!

5k ergo 02; clubs shot 04; Goblets 04; Wedding 04; Valentine 05.

Blisters, 26/09

We at the blog frown on gloves and as a consequence have been known to sit in meetings and on the tube picking away absent-mindedly at our rather paltry blisters. Having said that these (from the Boston Marathon) put anything we've ever had in the shade (from the Slug).

Stroke Cyles, 26/09

This is a really fantastic resource on the Inverness RC website. It's pretty self-explanatory really but we'd recommend having a good root around no matter what your level of rowing. [We really are this sad - Ed].

Stroke Cycles.

One of the most interesting things is the ratio for the racing scullers. Fiona Milne's recovery is actually shorter than her drive & Marcel Hacker's ratio is almost 1:1. Does that mean that Geordie's been right all along? Time on the slide IS time wasted.

C2 Newsletter, 26/09

The latest Concept2 newsletter can be found here (we know you love it).

Smarten Up, 25/09

From Neil...

Boys and girls,

It looks like my splash top is gone forever so am going to bite the bullet and order a new one. If anyone was thinking of a similar purchase nows the time as we'll get a discount for more than one.

Whilst we're at it, now would also be a good time to be putting a more general order together, especially with the Fours Head coming up not to mention winter training. Remember you have to have a Cygnet all-in one if you're going to race for us and you'll need appropriate warm kit for winter on the water.

For the uninitiated, our kit is supplied by Godfrey and can be ordered via our kit page on their website. Click on this link or go to the Kit link on the Cygnet homepage. All you have to do is place your order online by the specified date and Godfrey will collate all the orders and apply any discounts where there are multiple items. The kit will then all be delivered to one address thus saving on postage as well. Do be aware that when you place an on-line order the automated response will indicate that you'll be charged the full price for one item. Don't panic, as long as someone else orders the same thing you will be charged the discounted rate.

Currently lead times for club kit are about 3-4 weeks so lets say last call for kit orders is the 14th October.

You'll look so smart.

Neil.

PS: Bates wants to get Cygnet singlets added to the range. If you agree let me know and if we get more than 3 then I'll make the necessary arrangements.

...we suspect that Bates wants singlets so the girls can better admire those expanding shoulders, biceps and ego!

Captain's Log, 25/09

I had a bit of a disaster before Sculling Camp when all my digital contacts were automatically stripped out of my address book by my administration software - nice! I have managed to recover most of them but some of my information may be out of date. If this email has gone to the wrong address please let me know and I'll sort it out. If you're reading this on the website and thinking "where was my email?" the same applies. Apologies in advance for any problems.

Many thanks for the excellent turnout for the meeting last Thursday, if that was an indicator of commitment to training this winter then we should have a good season. Shame that the TRRC failed to show-up to launch the new Code of Conduct but I think that we covered the basics. See Safety tip of the week for more details.

Thursday's good turnout was followed but a very encouraging numbers at the weekend but that might have had something to do with the great weather and tides making for some lovely rowing conditions. A coached eight out on Saturday plus various Pairs Head crews including a race-off between the doubles for the "better" boat. Pretty much the same on Sunday with a Sculling Camp follow-up pod out later in the morning made for a good start to the winter regime.

I've been asked to remind you about the Vets Lunch at Leander on 28th October. You should have received details with the newsletter and Phil is braced for the onslaught of applications. Remember that you don't have to be a Vet to come along to what is a very convivial afternoon. It's the only chance that you'll get to hear me make a speech too.

THIS WEEK...

COMING UP:

BOATHOUSE:

Various jobs need doing in and around the boathouse so if you can spare an hour or so after outings your help is always appreciated. On a general note please do your best to tidy-up after yourselves as you go - bins don't empty themselves, cups don't find their own way into the dishwasher and kit doesn't hang itself up!

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

The new Code of Conduct for rowing on the Tideway comes into force on the 6th October. This is effectively a reaffirmation of the current rowing rules but there are a few fundamental changes to be aware of. It's important that we know what we're doing out on the river and enforcement will be stricter than it has been in the past so steersmen, coxes and scullers please familiarise yourselves with this document. There are printed booklets at the boathouse as well as a nice shiny new map. The information is also available here so no excuses. Also see the NTM here. Any questions please ask myself, Marj or Chris Davidson.

Also the Thames 21 yellow litter cages are back on the foreshore this week, this time down at the Hammersmith end of Crabtree Reach on Middlesex, they ought to be well out of harms way but worth a mention.

If you have been, wacky-do!

Neil.

Best Served Cold, 24/09

The provisional Rowers' Revenge start order has now been posted here. It would appear from initial perusal that wave 19 is probably the most loaded with talent (particularly in the lower numbers). However we at the blog are slightly concerned that youngish Master Wyatt cannot seem to type in the 6 letters of his rowing club name without error. Shouldn't the attention-to-detail of a very senior government statistician be somewhat better than this?

Go! Go! Cygbet!

Vice Captain's Log, 19/09

With the Captain and Deputy Captain continuing to enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the Cygnets Bungalow, its been left to me to send this weeks Log.

First of all, many thanks to those of you who came along to sculling camp. Whether it was coaching, cooking, washing up, or doing handstands and action man forward rolls in the garden, everyone pitched in to make the weekend a resounding success.

There was also some sculling. About 10 new single scullers took to the water with other novice scullers going further afield to Sunbury lock for the first time. Whether the calibre of new oarsman is improving or the coaching is reaching new heights I don't know, but I'm pleased to report only two fatalities (capsizes) this time round. This is down from about 13 a year ago. The next step is to transfer all of this good sculling camp work to the Tideway (where the action is) and plans are afoot for a sculling camp follow up session and regular sculling outings from next Sunday at 11:15. A few more Cygnet sculling pots next year? We'll see.

Turning to upcoming events and a reminder about sculling camp boat unloading on Wednesday evening and the squad meeting on Thursday at 19:00. If you intend to row with the squad or steer any boat this winter please do your very best to attend this meeting. There will also be a short presentation from the TRRC about the new rowing code of practice (essential for the steersmen) and some spiel from the Captain outlining the plan for the winter season.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

HELP REQUIRED FOR THE PAIRS HEAD:

This year, the Pairs Head of the River Race will take place at 10.30am on Saturday 14th October. For those that don't know, this race is organised by Barnes Bridge Ladies Rowing Club. Once again I am co-ordinating the timing team for the race and am in need of willing volunteers to help out on the day, recording boat orders at the start and finish, and recording start and finish times. The race is starting at 10.30am, so you will need to be available from approximately 8.30am (for a briefing meeting at the Civil Service Boathouse and to allow time to get in position) until approximately 12.30pm. Whilst this is an earlier start than in previous years, it means you get the afternoon free to do what you want! For more information on the race, which is from the University Stone at Chiswick Bridge to Hammersmith Bridge, see the following website http://www.pairshead.co.uk/PHframeset.html Don't worry if you haven't done this before, no experience is required, and full briefing will be provided. If you have a preference for a particular job, or for being at the start (near Chiswick Bridge) or finish (Hammersmith Bridge), please let me know and I will do my very best to accommodate your wishes. Please can you let me know if you are available and keen to help. Regards Katherine.

Think that's it. Have a great week.

Stuart.

Inches, 13/09

It'll bring a tear to your eye. So will this.

Slightly Mad, 13/09

Below from BBL Margaret - all sounds a bit strenuous for one of our sisters. What next? Rowing to the moon?

I have recently been selected to become a member of the first crew to row around the world without touching land. Three crews of three rowers will be attempting this record-breaking voyage, which departs from Tasmania in late 2007 and crosses the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian Oceans. I will be joining the first leg for an estimated 5-month row across the Pacific Ocean - making me the first Australian woman to row an ocean.

To take part in the challenge I must pay a fee of GBP 16,300 towards expedition costs. I hope to raise the full amount through sponsorship and donations. If you would like to make a donation please send a cheque made out in pounds sterling to Margaret Bowling at the address below or leave it at the club. Alternatively you can Click Here To Pay.

The crew as a whole is also looking for a title sponsor, sponsorship in kind, and assistance with logistics and publicity around the world. If you are interested in helping with logistics we are looking for people in South Africa and Chile or Argentina for the re-supplies, and in Hobart for the departure and arrival. Help will be needed to hire re-supply yachts, arrange accommodation, deal with local officials, source spare parts, etc. We are also looking for a documentary commission. If you would like further information please visit the website or contact me directly.

I have always wanted to do something 'extra ordinary' and believe that, in ocean rowing, I have found my perfect challenge. Please help me to make it a reality.

Kind regards,

Margaret Bowling.

We've added links to Row Extreme & Margaret's biog to our links page (bottom left).

Captain's Log, 12/09

An eight out both days this weekend as well as various singles and a pair enjoying some great early autumn sun, indeed several of us are sporting quite healthy tans this morning. Marvelous! Not so marvelous however was a visit on Saturday from the local scumbags who made off with several wallets and phones from the changing room during outings. You can't really blame the scumbags though - the inside door had been left propped open whilst everyone was out on the water - might as well have sent out invitations and put up a sign. So despite all the various warnings (in this log) over the summer we've had to learn the lesson the hard way. Fortunately it's a very simple lesson to remember:

Don't leave the bl00dy door propped open!

Having to keep tapping in the code may be a bit of a pain but not as much of a pain as cancelling all your bank cards and typing all your numbers into a new SIM card.

PLEASE - always assume that you're the last out and close the door. Should you see someone that you don't recognise, please challenge them. They've had a good haul recently: wallets and phones on Saturday; the jockey wheel off the trailer last week; and I'm still missing my splash top (has anyone seen that?). Let's not get a reputation as a soft target.

Back to more fun stuff - If you're coming to Sculling Camp next weekend please try to make it down on Tuesday evening and help load the trailer. If you're not coming to sculling camp and intend to do an outing please bear in mind that The Great River Race is taking place on Saturday and their will be a continuous stream of badly steered ships gigs and dragon boats on the river for most of the morning.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

Saturday 21st October - Weybridge Silver Sculls. Single scullers only. Contact davo [underscore] davo225 [at] hotmail [dot] com if you're interested.

Saturday 28th October - Vets Lunch at Leander club, Henley. Remember you don't have to be a vet to come along, everyone is welcome. Details and application forms with the next newsletter and on the website.

HELP REQUIRED FOR THE PAIRS HEAD:

This year the Pairs Head of the River Race will take place at 10.30am on Saturday 14th October. For those that don't know, this race is organised by Barnes Bridge Ladies Rowing Club. Once again I am co-ordinating the timing team for the race and am in need of willing volunteers to help out on the day, recording boat orders at the start and finish, and recording start and finish times. The race is starting at 10.30am, so you will need to be available from approximately 8.30am (for a briefing meeting at the Civil Service Boathouse and to allow time to get in position) until approximately 12.30pm. Whilst this is an earlier start than in previous years, it means you get the afternoon free to do what you want! For more information on the race, which is from the University Stone at Chiswick Bridge to Hammersmith Bridge, see the following website http://www.pairshead.co.uk/ Don't worry if you haven't done this before, no experience is required, and full briefing will be provided. If you have a preference for a particular job, or for being at the start (near Chiswick Bridge) or finish (Hammersmith Bridge), please let me know and I will do my very best to accommodate your wishes. Please can you let me know if you are available and keen to help. Katherine Pugh.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Beware The Great River Race on Saturday morning. There are also loads of pairs and doubles out practicing at the moment, many of whom are unfamiliar with the Tideway, so stay alert.

If you have been, then don't leave the bl00dy door propped open.

Neil.

C2 News And Bits, 06/09

The latest C2 BIRC newletter can be found here. IT INCLUDES AN ENTRY FORM.

In other news a big well done to Chris Jillings who raced and won VetC 1x at Lea Autumn Regatta last Sunday. His, and all the other season's results can always be found on our comprehensive results page.

Lastly a reminder that sculling camp is once again being extended, this time to "wrap-around" the official w/e. Currently we believe that Neil & Marj are there Thursday 15th & Friday 16th. Theresa, Mike, Neil & Marj will be staying on from Monday 18th until Wednesday 20th.

As before people are welcome to come along and enjoy the facilities for any of this extended period, but (a) let us know in advance and (b) be prepared to listen to Mike talk knowledgably and at great length on all things sculling. If you're lucky he'll even let you watch some of his rowing DVDs!

Too Camp, 05/09

The entry below was pasted earlier in the year to encourage people to attend the (then) upcoming spring sculling camp. Hopefully it'll work for the upcoming (16/17 September) autumn one too.

For any of you that might be wavering with regard to autumn sculling camp why not take a look at the pages below to get an idea of what you'll be missing.

Spring 2002, Autumn 2002, Spring 2003, Spring 2004, Spring 2005, Autumn 2005, Spring 2006.

Some interesting S.C. facts:

Cygnet Henley Lunch, 05/09

We think we put this up a while ago but here it is again for all those interested. We've also added it to our docs page so it can always be found there. We at the blog are not sure if this lunch is being "rebranded" without the word "Veterans" or if that goes without saying, but that aside it is always a lot of fun and I suspect a group of "younger" members would be made more than welcome, even if it is the thin end of the wedge.

Feel Eepey, 05/09

We at the blog are always pleased to hear that our favourite girls in blue are moving one-step-closer to implementing a proper boat-buying programme: "after many months of decision-making and much research on possible options the club has ordered a new coxless 4 by Filippi".

The last boat they bought was also a Filippi, a double, which to our fairly certain knowledge only goes out about once a quarter. We'll be monitoring the new boats use with interest.

Club Opping, 05/09

Obviously anybody with half a brain will be either (a) staying at Cygnet, or (b) moving to Cygnet for the 2006/7 rowing season. That said the Army's entry in the club hopping section of the Slug made us laugh:

"Wars, operation deployments and exercises willing the squad train, on the water, every Sat and Sun morning, 08:30-12:30 hrs, Jan-Jul."

Which got us to thinking; what would a similar entry be for Cygnet? So far we have (from Bates):

Ministers, house-hunting and bodies physically able Cygnet's "squad" "train", on or near water, Tues, Thurs, Sat and Sun, Jan-Dec.

Can you do better? Send your suggestions to the blog and we'll publish the best.

Captain's Log, 04/09

The traditional rowing 'holiday' period continues unabated with very little rowing to report again this weekend. A coxless four, a quad and a double did venture out on Saturday with another quad and two doubles out on Sunday. All random scratch crews of course but patiently coached by Kathryn none the less.

Off the water the end of season BBQ was rather scuppered by the weather but all the quality people were there, which is what counts. Many thanks to Stu, Si and Pete for their post BBQ scrubbing efforts on Sunday morning.

THIS WEEK:

If there are crews available at 6.30 for outings then they are welcome to go out but I'm not proposing anymore weekday evening outings as the daylight is just no longer available. We do have a fully equipped gym however, so no excuses.

COMING UP:

KIT:

Time for a bit of a clean-up in the changing room. You know the rules, if it's not hung-up or put away by the time we're back from Sculling camp then it's in the bin.

The small (colour) TV that has appeared on the bench is fully functional but unwanted so if you want it feel free to take it away. And if anyone has borrowed my splash top from it's peg can I have it back please? It's easily identified by virtue of my name being sewn into the label. Ta.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

There were at least two incidents this last week involving pleasure cruisers and rowing craft, one resulting in a pair being run down and sunk at Barnes Bridge. It is imperative that you keep a good look-out when steering a boat and that you are aware of the navigation rules. You'll not have a leg to stand on if you're involved in an incident and out of position. Equally neither will they, so please report any incidents through the proper channels rather than just letting-rip and leaving it at that.

There are copies of the new Code of Conduct at the boathouse which I encourage all steersmen to read and for everyone to attend the squad meeting on the 21st September.

If you have been, then it's time to stop.

Neil.

Captain's Log, 29/08

Bank holidays were enjoyed, World Rowing Championships watched and Stag Dos survived but very little rowing to report on from our favorite boathouse this weekend. I believe that a four might have snuck out on Saturday and doubtless some scullers enjoyed the long weekend but your guess is as good as mine.

So in lieu of any thing meaningful to report, I shall take the opportunity to remind you of what's coming up over the next couple of months...and there's plenty of it.

THIS WEEK...

...might just be the last for evening outings as the failing light (sunset is now before 8.00 pm) will make for very short outings unless you can boat before 7pm. With so many entries into the Triathlon I would suggest that a 4k erg and 2 bridge run would be more beneficial exercise.

COMING UP:

Saturday 2nd September, 19.00 - End of season BBQ. This is an informal social at the boathouse to celebrate the end of the regatta season. All welcome, indeed positively encouraged to come along but please contact Katy.Baldwin [at] nationalarchives.gov.uk for catering numbers

16th - 17th September - Autumn Sculling Camp. See posters in the boathouse for details or contact vice [at] cygnet-rc.org.uk for more info. This weekend is thoroughly recommended, especially so for the new guys (check out the links on the website to previous S'camps). If you have a few spare days annual leave and want more then we will be at the bungalow for a couple of days either side of that weekend. This is not part of sculling camp per-se so if you fancy it you'll be expected to chip in with the chores and the shopping etc. Please contact me for further details or if you'd like to come along.

Thursday 21st September 19.00 - Squad meeting. If you intend to row with the squad or steer any boat this winter please do your very best to attend this meeting. There will be a short presentation from the TRRC about the new rowing code of practice (essential for the steersmen) and some spiel from me outlining the plan for the winter season. Details of the weekly winter training timetable are still being finalised but expect circuits, weights and ergs weekday evenings and lots of rowing at the weekends. We have a lot of coaching available this year so let's make the most of it.

Sunday 1st October - Rowers Revenge Triathlon. Effectively a curtain-raiser for winter training with a record entry of 16 (plus 3 guests) this year. All very encouraging.

7-8th October - Rhine Marathon. If you're interested or for more details contact deputy [at] cygnet-rc.org.uk but please hurry as we have to let Benrath know numbers fairly soon.

Saturday 14th October - Pairs Head. Nick and I are up for it which leaves three boats. If you are a pair or a double then please let captain [at] cygnet-rc.org.uk know if you fancy entering - remember it's only to Hammersmith Bridge. The committee are always looking for willing helpers with this event so if you want to get involved but not actually row it, let me know.

21st October - Weybridge Silver Sculls. Single scullers only for this quality event which takes place downstream from the Bungalow. An ideal training piece if you intend on entering the Scullers Head. Contact davo_davo225@hotmail.com if you're interested.

Saturday 28th October - Vets Lunch. Held annually at Leander club in Henley the Vets Lunch is now open to all members and will be Cygnets official formal social event of the year. Good beer, excellent food, average speeches and more good beer. All you need is the ability to look smart and some money for your good beer. Details and application forms with the next newsletter and on the website.

FROM THE ARA:

There are two training events in the Thames Region on the 23rd and 24th September: for club committee members, the TRRC Club Development Seminar at Leander Club, on 23 September and for coaches and athletes, the Australian Physiotherapy and Pilates Institute has organised a half-day workshop entitled "Pilates for Rowing", on 24 September. Full details of both events are available at: http://cms.thames-rrc.org/index.php?id=20.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK - a cautionary tale:

I was out for an evening paddle on Thursday last and at about the end of the brewery wall I stopped to chat with a very attractive young lady from Mortlake. The most striking thing about this particular young lady, apart from her looks, was that she and her single were 'as one' with a huge lump of tree drifting slowly down on the tide, totally unable to manoeuvre. Naturally I offered my assistance and gallantly "powered" off to Scrubbers with the intention of getting a launch afloat to assist. However the holigans in the big orange rib arrived (doubtless having washed down every other boat on the river getting there) and my chance of heroic glory (and getting her phone number) were dashed.

What, you are thinking, is the bl00dy point and if there is one do please, get on with it! Well, it was an almost perfect evening for sculling, calm, flat, clear and quiet so how did she manage to get stuck on such a huge and obviously lump of tree? There is only one conclusion to draw which is that she wasn't looking around enough was she? I wouldn't be so gauche as to embarrass the girl by divulging her name (well of course I got her name) but it graphically illustrates the point that even in the most sublime conditions you have to concentrate on your navigation. Keeping a good look-out is the first and most important rule of steering as there might not always be a handsome Tideway captain around to rescue you if you don't.

If you have been, then what goes on tour, stays on tour.

Neil.

RWC Beeb Vids, 28/08

Various BBC website world rowing clips can be found here (including the lwt 1x final and hevyweight 4- semifinal).

Also for those in-the-know here is a link to some YouTube rowing clips. Astonishingly bad? You decide.

C2, 27/08

The latest edition of the C2 newsletter can be found here.

Also a reminder that there will be an EoS BBQ at the boathouse next Saturday (2nd) from 7pm. All are welcome.

Captain's Log, 21/08

For those who don't already know, it is my very sad duty to report the news of the death of Frank Bull. Frank had been ill for some time and passed away in the early hours of last Friday in Charing Cross Hospital, where he had been since the 14th August. He was 94. The secretary will publish an obituary in due course but suffice to say that Frank, or John as he was often known, is the only person to have had a boat in both Cygnet and BBLRC named after him which I think signals the regard in which he was held.

John's funeral will be held at 11.30 on Thursday 31st August at Mortlake Crematorium. No flowers by request, but, if wished, donations to the Salvation Army c/o Holmes & Daughters, 461 Upper Richmond road, London SW14. All John's friends will be welcome at a gathering afterwards in the Barnstonian Room (1st Floor) at Ye White Hart, Barnes. If you plan to attend at Ye White Hart, please let Mike AG know on mikeag [at] btinternet [dot] com. Our flag pole is out of action so Emanuel school have kindly allowed us use of theirs where our flag will remain at half-mast until the 31st.

It was a quiet weekend at the boathouse with the BB ladies away at Oxford and the opportunity for a post-regatta season break taken-up by many. However an eight (The Frank Bull, of course) took to the water with a mixture of new and seasoned oarsmen, accompanied by a coaching launch on Saturday. Continued thanks for the support in getting the new chaps on the water and particularly to Chris for coxing on Sunday.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

On-the-water activity is likely to be a bit ad-hoc for the next few weeks as stag-dos, weddings, availability of coxswains, bank holidays and general apathy all continue to disrupt any chance of much structure. But that is all to be expected at this time of year (as we switch from summer racing to the long haul of winter training) and a bit of a break is no bad thing. We will continue with a show-up-and-row policy for the next few weeks until Sculling Camp on the 16th-17th September. I suspect that weekday outings may reach a natural conclusion as the evening light fails us, so ergs and runs may be the order of the day, especially for those who have entered the Triathlon - a 4k erg then a 2 bridge run...nice!

In the week after sculling camp there will be a squad meeting where we will outline the plan for the winter. This meeting will be either Tuesday 19th or Thursday 21st September and all active oarsmen, novices, coxes and coaches are encouraged to attend.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

THE SHED...

...has been tidied-up and reorganised in time for winter training. Please keep it that way.

FROM THE ARA:

I'm pleased to announce that the ARA has reached an agreement with the London Sports Partnerships Services Team to subsidise places on generic sportscoachUK and RunningSport courses and workshops. The first 100 applicants who are linked with an ARA affiliated club in the capital will be able to attend these workshops for 3GBP instead of the normal 15GBP. Full details of all the courses, and how to apply for the discount are on the TRRC website at http://cms.thames-rrc.org/index.php?id=86.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

There is a lot of rubbish in the river at the moment, some of it very large indeed and much of it submerged. Please take extra care, especially on the incoming tide.

If you intend to, fake breasts and a silly hat for the stag please.

Neil.

Play The Percentages, 20/08

A mixed-ability eight today saw Davo take to the coxing seat for the first time in a while. All went well but one of his calls made us smile. During slide progression exercises Davo was heard to say:

OK let's take it up to three-quarter slide. For anyone who doesn't know what that means it's approximately 15% short of full slide.

Says a lot about the state of schooling in Australia, we feel.

Frank Edward "John" Bull, 19/08

Please see the note below from RduP regarding the death of John Bull. We've added a couple of shots of John from the website and Ronnie is working on a suitable obituary for the newsletter & website. Very sad news...

20th March 1912 - 18th August 2006.

Frank died this morning, about half past midnight, in the Charing Cross Hospital, where he had been since 14th August.

His membership of Cygnet RC, as you know, goes back a very long way - we have active members [well, members paying active subscriptions] whom he taught to row as teenagers, who are themselves now state pensioners.

Richard.

Those newer members who didn't know John personally were made well aware of his importance to the club the first time they went out in a boat; most of Cygnet's successful active oarsmen, and all of our recent novices, have been taught their trade in our Janousek eight, the John Bull.

Row TV Too, 19/08

With the WRC at Dorney kicking off tomorrow here's a quick reminder of the official website & also the times for BBC TV's coverage of the event.

Grand Designs, 19/08

Several members of both clubs have worked very hard today cleaning the boathouse and re-organising/cleaning the equipment in the shed ready for the onset of winter training. Please TRY and keep things safe & tidy - stow free weights and PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE wipe down the ergo slides after use. Some of them were rougher than Geordie's tongue will be next weekend!

Autism Speaks, 19/08

Please see the note below from Liz Lake at Staines Boat Club...

I am a rower at Staines Boat Club and am currently helping the charity Autism Speaks to organise a sponsored row at Dorney Lake on the 3rd of September. We are currently recruiting rowers/scullers to work together to keep a boat moving for 12 hours. It is a fantastic cause and Autism is more widespread than people realise.

Please find attached our poster to advertise the event. Would it be possible for you to let your club members know by putting the poster up in your clubhouse or maybe putting a link to our website on your club website?

http://www.autismspeaks.org.uk/sponsored_row.htm

If you have any queries please don't hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your support in advance. Liz Lake.

Peterborough Shots, 19/08

Some early photos from Matt (I'm sure we'll get round to doing a "proper" page soon).

Gents What Lunch, 15/08

The Vets Lunch is creeping up. Full details (and a reply slip) can be found in this Word document. All are welcome.

Better Let Than Never 2, 15/08

PLEASE NOTE: the date on the original verion of this entry was wrong and should have read "Sunday 27 August" instead of "Sunday 27 October". It has been corrected in the version below (and might influence your decision a bit).

Unfortunately Sam has had to cancel the week he reserved at the bungalow commencing on Sunday 27 August. So if anyone is interested in taking advantage of Sam's misfortune please email me at ronald [dot] lambe [at] btinternet [dot] com. Normally the rent for this period is GBP270 but I am willing to discuss discounts. Think hard about this - it will do you a power of good to relax by the Thames for a week., or even travel to and fro to work by the local train. Relatives, friends or other loved ones are eligible.

Captain's Log, 14/08

Much like last year there wasn't a lot of 'Summer' about Peterborough this weekend. They really will have to give it a new name - Peterborough Gale-Force-Winds-and-Rain Regatta would do. It was, once again, horrible, especially on Saturday when the general consensus was that the sheltered lane 1 had as much as a 2 length advantage over the windy lane 4! The traditional BBQ was again abandoned for the warm, dry cabin of our favorite floating Chinese restaurant. No pots either but some good racing from our boys with Chris Dunhill competing in a N1x for the first time and the S3 4+ coming second to a very fast Reading crew but well ahead of everyone else. They repeated the 2nd place result on Sunday which, while frustrating, proves that they're genuine contenders at S3. Not bad for a crew that started the season as novices. Richard also got through 2 rounds (plus a re-row after a dead heat!) to make the final of N1x. An excellent effort considering the quality of opposition at Peterborough 'Summer'. Many thanks to everyone for their enthusiasm despite the weather and for staying around to help with the boats yesterday.

And that, Ladies and Gents, concludes our regatta calendar for the season. Many thanks to the squad for their time and effort over the season, some good results in there, all the way from novice to elite. I will be meeting with the captaincy and coaches this week to formulate a plan for the winter and will send out a separate email to the squad with all the details.

Many thanks to those few remaining souls who looked after our new novices this weekend. We do have a number of new chaps and with racing now over it's the ideal time to get them up to speed. We will continue with a show-up and row policy for the next few weeks, whilst the light lasts, so your continued availability to help get these guys rowing is appreciated. We've all been there and now's the time to repay that. You're all very kind.

Also a big thanks from Mike and his chums from the International Business Machine to those guys that helped with the taster session last Wednesday. A good time reported by all.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Be aware that the evenings are starting to draw in and outing times will have to take that into account. Please wear light/bright coloured clothes and if you think that your outing might go beyond sunset, take some lights with you. Our rowing after dark policy and the rules about lighting of rowing boats are available on the website.

Nothing too important from the PLA this week just a reminder to use the kill-cord in the launch and that navigation whilst under the influence [of alcohol] is both dangerous and contrary to popular belief, illegal.

If you have been, please let me know if you'd rather not continue to receive this log every week.

Neil.

Row TV, 11/08

For anyone can't make it down to the upcoming Worlds at Dorney, here are details of BBC TV's coverage of the event. In other news we're pleased to see that James has got his medals back!

Pretty Rubbish, 11/08

Dodgy assistant treasurer [assistant to the treasurer - Ed], erstwhile oarsman & hair-product megalomaniac, Pretty-Boy Naylor, has moved a step further in his ongoing attempt to wrest the nickname Rubbish from its current holder.

Picture the scene. Twenty hungry people sit on Wandsworth common. All have been "duped" into getting there for 2:30pm in order to surprise Andy's long-suffering girlfriend on her birthday. Emails too numerous to mention have been sent with instructions & details being changed, enhanced and revoked so often that nobody really has much of an idea what is going on.

Least of all Naylor, who was phoned by the expectant picnickers at about 3pm to find out why he was late, only to find that he had taken Poppy for a birthday lunch at a restaurant in Fulham and was only just tucking into the main course.

Rubbish (although it all turned out alright in the end).

Top 5 Mate, 11/08

Were YOU aware we are top-of-the-pops? Nor were we, but thinking about it we're hardly surprised. Well done, LS magazine.

E By Gym, 09/08

Concept2 will begin shipping the model E from September. Petition your friendly boathouse captain to get one for the shed?

Petey, 09/08

The draw for Peterborough Summer is up here. Looks like all our crews are in.

Deputy Captain's Log, 07/08

Dear all,

A lovely weekend on the river yet again, although not many people were there to witness it at our normal squad times. Many thanks to those of you who helped out on Saturday and Sunday with the novices - both Stuart and I much appreciated your assistance, and I am sure that especially the brand new novices appreciated having experienced rowers in the boat to balance it. My gratitude to Davo for coxing the eight on Sunday is immense - you all know why.

THIS WEEK:

We should all still be training for the last regatta of the season, so I expect the Peterborough crews out in force. For the rest of the seniors, show-up-and-row will do, but do bear in mind that I'll be coxing so coxless boats only, probably. The same for the weekend for the seniors, with experienced steerspeople allowed to take boats out as necessary. Stuart will be in touch with the novices for weekend arrangements, as I won't be around for coxing.

THE PROGRAMME THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

BOATHOUSE:

Hurrah - the plumber has been and a new pump has been installed in the kitchen. I have cleared up the mess we call the work tops, so we can start with a clean kitchen. Please use the sink and the dishwasher!

SAFETY:

It's still summer, it's still hot, so getting splashed with the river water during an outing does not seem too bad. However, it's not bath water so please ensure you have a shower after outings to get rid of nasty organisms living in the river. You would not want to get ill during your holidays now, would you.

SECURITY:

With the hot weather we teld to leave the door into the club room open. Please make an effort to close the inner door to the club room if there is no one in the club room itself. When in doubt, just close the door as we all know how to unlock it!

Marj.

Deputy Captain's Log, 02/08

Dear all,

Well, Neil is away and he promised I'd do a brief log so here it is, although it won't be a brief one. No regattas this weekend, just training outings on Saturday and Sunday. The ongoing lovely weather tempted most rowers to get out of bed on Saturday morning so we had an eight, a coxless four and 3 singles going out - rather impressive. Less impressive was the enthusiasm for rowing on Sunday morning when the good weather obviously tempted most people to stay out late Saturday night. In the end the Vice-double went out, as well as a coxed four which was coached by Pete. At 11:30 Mike had organised another sculling pod with 4 scullers going out.

NOVICES

Your continuous help with the novices is much appreciated. To ensure that the squad get their usual training outings in first, we aim to organise the novices to come to the club at 11/11:30. However, these sessions only work if the squad members stay for these second outings by doing a bit of coaching, steering a tub, or rowing in a four/eight with them. So far, this has turned out rather well and I hope that we can all continue to help out.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

BAR

Please note that there is a firkin of London Pride in the bar that needs to be drunk as soon as possible. A bargain at 2 pounds per pint, so do stay on after outings.

Also, Rhiannon has organised an "outing" to the Great British Beer Festival for this Friday for a number of Benrath rowers and their captain, as well as a number of beer lovers from Cygnet. If you'd like to go too, tickets can be bought at the door and if you'd like to meet up, let me know. Doors open at noon.

BOATHOUSE

With the pump in the kitchen still broken please continue to use the sink in the bar or the basins in the changing rooms. On no account pour anything down the plug hole in the kitchen - the smell will be awful. Thank you.

SAFETY

Although there are less crews out on the river at the moment, please be aware that we have to stick to the navigation rules as the PLA are still keeping an eye out for infringements. So stay on the righthand side of the fairway when going with the stream and be sensible when spinning around. I saw a single sculler spinning to return to Putney about 5 feet below Barnes Bridge yesterday on an outgoing tide - which is way too close to the bridge in anyone's rulebook. He only could have made it worse by spinning 5 feet ABOVE Barnes Bridge.

SECURITY

Over the past weekend AK have been hit by thieves, with a collection of wallets being stolen. Can everyone please make an effort to keep the inner door to the club room closed if there is no one in the club room itself. When in doubt, just close the door as we all know how to unlock it!

Marj.

Eye Of The Tiger, 28/07

Gotta have a montage! Fantastic work by Simon (Hayley's partner). If you have trouble viewing and don't want to install Quicktime you might like to go for this. It's well worth the hassle.

Ergo News, 24/07

The latest edition of the C2 newsletter can be found here.

Also take a look at the rowbike. Fact or fiction? You decide.

Captain's Log, 24/07

The observant amongst you will have realised already that since nothing about this Log seems to have changed, you've got to put up with another year of me as captain. Those who attended the meeting on Tuesday can bear witness to the wild drama and tension of another Cygnet Captaincy Election [sic]. There being no other candidates I can only assume that I can't have done such a bad job last season so I don't intend to change very much; just tinker with this idea, learn from that mistake and try out the other. Do not fear however, as Marj and Stuart have also retained their positions as Deputy and Vice respectively, so all will continue to run smoothly despite my best efforts. I'd like to reiterate that it really is a team effort and my thanks to everyone for their support and commitment.

Yeah, yeah, yeah but what happened at St. Neots I hear you cry. Well pretty much exactly the same as last year as it happens. All the crew boats on Saturday went out in the first round, it was hot and sunny, it rained (very hard), we had to hold onto the marquee to stop it being blown away, it was hot and sunny again, we had a BBQ, we had some beers, some folk went of to the cheesy disco (which wasn't there due to the new licencing laws - shame). Chris Jillings did however rescue the day with a win in Vet C Sculls.

Again, much like last year, Sunday's 500m sprints proved more successful. Richard won a round in his single for the first time, the S4 4+ now all have a point (well earned over four rounds with a 3 foot win in the final), the S1 pair had a comfortable 4 length win for a pointless pot and Cygnet once again had to race the last race of the regatta, late on Sunday evening. But what a race - a frenetic thrash of flailing blades and excessive back splash resulting in a Cygnet victory by 1 foot over Sudbury. Yes you heard that correctly, a Cygnet win in an 8! The first for as long as anyone can remember. Congrats also to the BB ladies S4 4+ for their pot and many thanks to everyone for all their help over a long and busy weekend.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

NOVICES:

Stu has an increasingly long list of new chaps on the books which can only be a good thing for the club. We will be arranging sessions for these guys after normal weekend outings and any assistance will be much appreciated. We've all been there and this is pay-back time. I know I can rely on you.

BOATHOUSE BITS:

Please note that the pump in the kitchen is still broken which means that neither the sink or the dishwasher can be used until it is fixed. The Exec. are working on resolving the problem but in the meantime please use the sink in the bar or the basins in the changing rooms. On no account pour anything down the plug hole in the kitchen. Thank you.

With the hot, sunny weather the inner door to the clubroom is often propped open. This is fine if people are about but if you're the last out (or think that you're last out) please remember to shut that inner door or run the risk of having your stuff nicked.

PLA NOTICES OF THE WEEK:

Please find here the link to the Chart that will accompany the launch of the new rowing code of practice. This will be professionally printed and issued to rowing clubs and event representatives along the Tideway courtesy of the TRRC, if individuals wish to buy a copy for their kitchen wall they will be able to do so through the PLA. Obviously the rules on the chart refer to the new rowing code which is not yet in force, so common sense should be used in their application (although the majority are not changes to the current system).

http://www.portoflondon.co.uk/pdfs/Rowing_Chart_110706.pdf

As is traditional I shall be starting my captaincy by going away for a week (29th July - 5th August inclusive) so Marj and Stu are in charge next week and the (Deputy) Captain's Log will be mercifully short no doubt.

If you have been, it's more fun with a full eight to finish with.

Neil.

Neots Draw, 19/07

The draws for Saturday & Sunday are now up on the St. Neots Regatta 2006 website.

Captain's Log, 19/07

Perhaps a little windy to be perfect but a gloriously sunny weekend at the boathouse nevertheless, with plenty of activity on show. The surprise of the weekend was that the S2 8 for St. Neots not only got our for a practice outing but also went rather well and managed another outing on Sunday, albeit with a sub. A 4+ also boated on Saturday along with some singles and our new chaps out on the water in on both days. Thanks to all who jumped in the boat to help get the new boys afloat.

The main event of the weekend however was the club day on Saturday where members of both clubs got together for the traditional summer afternoon of mixed rowing. Boys and girls of various heights, weights and abilities were thrust into 4s and 8s and after various side-by-side pieces it was determined that Dave, Lindsay, Robin, Barry and Nick W were the best combo in a 4+, while Marj, Jenny, Poppy, Jo, Lindsay, Barry, Stu, Balders and Nick B had what it takes in an 8. Neil and Chris D went out with CJ who showed them just how fast an S2 sculler really is, even from 6 lengths down. But at the end of the day rowing was the true winner so we celebrated that with a few beers and some blackened sausages. A small but high quality selection of cakes were also produced for the BB Bake-off with Theresa's cheesecake taking the honours. Many thanks to everyone for coming along, helping-out and joining-in and to all those who helped with the arrangements, particularly Geordie (food), Mike (prizes) and Chris (safety).

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

BOATHOUSE BITS:

MONEY:

Please check the list on the back of the changing room door (which includes St. Neots) for your financial status with regards to race fees. With just Peterborough to go please make sure that you're settled-up with Marj.

FLEET:

Our WSA and former captain of vice, Mr Chris Davidson has bought a new single scull and has very generously offered his old one to the club. We have accepted it with many thanks which means that our single fleet is now up to 5. The boat, a Sims, is currently racked on the top at the back on the Cygnet side.

SAFETY TIP OFTHE WEEK:

With so little water in the river at low tide please take extra care as there are some previously undiscovered nasties being exposed, especially around bridges and piers. The low water is also causing a lot of rubbish to be swept-up with the flood tide - we lost a fin on Saturday to a submerged log.

PLA NOTICES OF THE WEEK:

All coxswains, coaches, steersmen and indeed other interested parties are invited aboard the local PLA harbour masters launch for non-rowing perspective view of the Tideway. The launch is out during working hours, 7 days a week but a trip during rowing hours would be of most benefit. This is highly recommended to anyone with an interest in navigating on the Tideway and if you fancy a go please contact me in the first instance.

If you have been, panda eyes all round then.

Neil.

Borat, 14/07

Thanks to Daley for the link. It's not a pig, it's a hippo. We laughed so hard a bit of wee came out.

Rowing Trader, 10/07

Looking to buy or sell rowing equipment? Then the Rowing Trader website might be for you. We've put a link on our Links page too.

Captain's Log, 10/07

Our four didn't get an entry so just a Nov 2x, Nov 1x and S4 4+ represented the club at Kingston Regatta this weekend. Both sculling boats failed to make it beyond the repechage, Richard being particularly unlucky in his single as a fisherman cast right across in front of him, entangling him in the line and forcing him to stop. Somehow Richard had recovered his sense of humour on landing despite a 'not rowed out' verdict. The 4+ fared better, getting directly through to the final where, in increasingly Tideway-esque conditions thanks to the wind, they were beaten by a very good crew from the Uni of Surrey and, annoyingly, AK - surely it's about time these damn students were off for the summer writing their dissertations or stacking shelves to earn next terms beer money?

Back on the Tideway the water was fortunately, very low as a veritable fleet of fours, pairs, doubles and singles braved the windy conditions on both days. We also had four new chaps in the tank and out in an eight on Sunday afternoon plus a visit from a potential new coxswain. Everyone seemed to enjoy their introduction to the club and to the Tideway and hopefully will be back for more next weekend.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

PLA NOTICES OF THE WEEK:

1) Please be aware that some cage things will be going in the river at the positions on the chart* upstream of Hammersmith bridge, they will probably go in a day or two before so please keep a lookout for them (* the chart is up on the notice board in the changing room)

2) At the same time as dropping in the yellow cages, the driftwood will be replacing the current riverview buoy with a slightly larger model. It is hoped that this buoy will not be dragged down in the same way as the current one and it is also large enough to put a light on, which we will trial if this larger buoy proves to be a success.Your comments, as ever, would be appreciated

3) Hammersmith Bridge Survey. NTM U12_2006. On or about 17 July 2006, for a period of about four weeks, repairs and inspection will be carried out on the Hammersmith Bridge from a gantry suspended beneath the bridge. The work will be carried out from 0800 to 1700 Monday to Friday; the gantry will be moved to a position alongside a bridge pier at the end of each working day. The gantry will be installed beneath the bridge, stretches the width of the bridge and is approximately 2 metres wide. The gantry will restrict the headway by up to 2 metres. The ends of the gantry will be marked in accordance with the Port of London Authority River Byelaws 1978 (as amended) namely: a bundle of straw during the day and by a white light at night. A safety boat, maintaining a continuous watch on VHF Channel 14, will be in attendance whilst the work is taking place and will warn approaching traffic of the current position of the gantry. All vessels are to ease speed when passing under the bridge, proceed with caution and be aware of the reduced headway beneath the gantry.

4) On Friday the 14th of July the MCA in conjunction with all the other river service agencies will be performing tests to investigate the behaviour of a loaded liferaft in a river environment. These will start from Putney Pier at 09:00 and will finish at 18:00. If you are rowing through this area at this time please keep a careful lookout as there will not only be a 65 man lifeboat floating in the vicinity, but accompanying motor vessels as well,

If you have been, naughty, naughty.

Neil.

King's Ton, 09/07

Couple of shots of our scullers from Saturday's Kingston Regatta. The 1x and 2x both lost in their heats and the S4 coxed four got through to the final but lost there. Roll on St. Neots...

Captain's Log, 03/07

Well that's that over for another year.

We went, we saw, but alas, we were conquered. Giving away 4 inches and over 2 stone per man, physics was never going to be on our side and despite having a good row it has to be said that we were out-classed by a very good pair, who went onto the semi-finals. Nevertheless we were pleased to have got there and proud to represent Cygnet RC once again in the Goblets at Henley Royal Regatta. Many thanks from both Nick and I for the great support we received all the way down the course on Thursday.

But what of the other (ex) Cygnet interest at HRR - our boys from last year's Goblets crew? Well it was very bad Luck for Simon who was out to defend the Prince Albert for Durham University. After making good progress they were forced to row with a sub in the semi, missing out to the eventual winners, Imperial College. Congratulations however to Ben who won the Thames Cup with London yesterday. Obviously we taught him everything he knows about rowing. All the results are here http://www.hrr.co.uk/thisyear/results.asp.

Many thanks once again to Peter and Pat Sly for their kind hospitality on Friday and to Marj for coordinating another fantastic picnic. Good food, good weather, good company and not a small amount of fizzy pop ensured that everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves, as always (well, everyone that is, except the taxi driver that had the misfortune to take Owen home).

So back to business as usual and Kingston Regatta next week. I was rather disappointed with the turnout over the weekend, especially as crews have been selected and posted. Come on boys the season's not over yet, there's still pewter to be had.

THIS WEEK:

We have several new guys from the taster day last weekend coming along on Sunday at 12.00 so if you could spare a few hours to help show them the ropes that would be much appreciated.

COMING UP:

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

From the PLA - Please find the link to a new NTM concerning the current drought. You should be aware that if the current weather continues into August, there is every probability of the river being completely unrowable at low tide in the whole rowing area...

http://www.portoflondon.co.uk/notice2mariners/index.cfm/flag/2/id/2572/site/navigation

Also a reminder about the importance of sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, water and not spending any longer than necessary out in this very intense heat.

If you have been, get a couple of big blokes in the middle of the boat next time.

Neil.

Goblets Hot Off The Press, 29/06

A big well done to Nick & Neil from all at the blog. Three Goblets crews in 3 years is a fantastic run for a club like Cygnet!

Very Late, 28/06

OK it's very late and we at the blog are slightly the worse for drink but tomorrow (well this) morning cross your finger for our boys. At 10:20am they race in the 1st round of the Goblets.

Must go to sleep now as am not making a lot of sense. Night night!

Bag Pipes, 27/06

In another of our occasional "what links?" series, can you guess "what links?" our erstwhile VC & current (un)safety officer Chris TPC Davo with your friend & (well just yours really) water-haten', barber-haten', party-poopen' Geordie Stephenson?

That's right - it's the Morpeth Bagpipe Museum. Why? Because Geordie should actually be known as Morpie, and Davo can't play the bagpipes - badly.

More "what links?" the next time we're constipated.

Captain's Log, 26/06

Apologies to the squad for my lack of attention this last week or so but my energies have been unavoidably distracted by all the Henley excitement. Normal service will (hopefully) be resumed after the weekend. The Hamhaugh Island is now safely installed on rack B20 at Henley having made the same pilgrimage down the M4 as her big sister, RG Benrath, has these last two years. Fingers crossed that Nick and I can do her justice on Thursday. Best of luck also to the boys from last year's Cygnet pair who are both racing at Henley again this year and have a good chance of picking up some silverware with Durham University (Simon, 4+) and London (Ben, 8+). The draw is here http://www.hrr.co.uk/thisyear/draw/dcomplete.asp.

Meanwhile back at the club Stuart reports:

A busy weekend saw a coxless four, two doubles and a pair venture out on Saturday. Everyone returned for the evening's Summer Party and bust-some-moves [danced - Ed] into the early hours, the outside of the Shed being used as a makeshift dance floor. Many thanks to all those involved in organising the party, particularly Katy, Jenny and Rhiannon who put in such a sterling effort.

Seven bleary-eyed Cygnets then dragged themselves down on Sunday morning which saw a coxed four and pair taking to the river. Most of the magnificent seven then stayed around to help out at the Civil Service Taster Day where there was interest from about six prospective new members.

Thanks to the guys for their help and the ladies for organising the event.

Richard was our sole representative at Richmond Regatta where he took part in his maiden single race. He didn't progress beyond the heat but reportedly enjoyed a good race. Hopefully some photos will appear soon as will more Nov x1 entries from Richard.

Thanks to Marj and Kathryn who in my absence have selected crews for Kingston and St.Neots Regattas which will be posted forthwith. The door is still open for St. Neots, so if you're still prevaricating, do make a decision and let us know by Friday.

THIS WEEK:

CLUB DAY AT HENLEY, FRIDAY 30TH:

Once again Peter and Pat have kindly invited club members to join them at their home, Old Blades, for some pomp, Pimms and blazer spotting. If you haven't already, please contact Marj today about picnic coordination. If you're new to club day at Henley contact the captaincy or a senior club member for more details and check out the Older Events section of our website for top fashion tips - club ties and blazers for the boys, posh frocks and big hats for the girls. As you can see Wyatt will have a dodgy pink shirt on, Collier will most likely have an even dodgier yellow one, whilst Balders and I will spend more time in Marj's hat than she does.

COMING UP:

MONEY:

Get your new club ties from Nick, settle-up your race fees with Marj and buy some 300 Club tickets before Alan hunts you down.

FLEET:

The Du Parcq is back from the menders and will be rigged as a quad.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Bates and Barry are planning to go out in a pair for the first time this week. They will have a launch with them at all times but my advice is to stay well clear, might I suggest repairing to YWH to watch the entertainment from a safe distance?

FOR SALE: Carl Douglas Custom 1x Special, 70-75kg. The first of Carl's black boats and named Lindiwe by the South African High Commissioner. Moderate use, good condition. 5,000GBP (original price 6,500GBP in 2004). Fitted to take a Speed Coach and also comes with a pair of Dreher Blades, CD tressels and a CD car-top boat rack. Email Greg Edelston (20/06/06).

If you have been, there's a long way to go yet.

Neil.

Marlow 1500, 21/06

A nice shot of the boys racing in elite pairs at last weekend's Marlow Regatta.

Captain's Log, 21/06

With all of the captaincy away this weekend the former captain slipped easily back into his old role arranging a veritable fleet of boats for outings over the weekend. Thanks Mike.

Meanwhile at Dorney Lake it was Marlow Regatta and despite it being 8.40 in the morning, Nick and I rowed a blinder in our heat of Elite Pairs, finishing second and progressing directly to the final. To be honest I think I needed the ensuing 7 hour wait in order to recover! Not quite such a good row in the final however where we finished 5th, which was a tad frustrating having held 4th place for most of the race, being pipped by half a length at the line. So a trip to Henley on Friday then, where 2 from 3 will qualify. We did manage to beat one of those crews twice on Saturday so fingers crossed.

STOP PRESS - STOP PRESS: a trip to Henley on Friday might not be required after all. Apparently there has been a withdrawal from the Goblets so it looks like we're in!

Speaking of Henley qualifiers, BBLRC turned-out on Friday morning and qualified for intermediate VIIIs at Women's Henley. Alas they were beaten in the first round by Aberdeen but were rightly pleased to have qualified and our congratulations to them.

As if that wasn't enough, Nick and I joined Marj and Pete Leffler for the London to Brighton bike ride on Sunday. Another early start as we mustered under Barnes Bridge at 05.20 (!) for the ride to Clapham Common. Pete and I set the pace arriving just 3.5 hours after leaving the start with Nick and Marj very close behind. A quick bite on the beach then a much more leisurely peddle back, eventually arriving home, slightly saddle sore, at about 19.45 after a 120 mile round trip. He may be quick in a pair but I'll bet Barney Williams didn't manage that, the big girls blouse.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

MONEY:

SECURITY: A changing room window was left wide open on Saturday. We don't really want the local chavs nicking our kit or 'redecorating' the changing rooms so please can the last man out please double-check all the window and doors are shut.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Please avoid stopping or turning close to, or under bridges and crossing points. This is particularly relevant to the bridges upstream of us where they are in close proximity to boathouses, crossing points and very narrow bits of river. As most of you appreciate navigation is much more difficult with a crew easied close to a bridge or crossing points. If you come across that scenario yourselves fell free to remind the offending crew that it's a less than ideal place to stop. Do be polite however and, if necessary, report the incident.

If you have been, 2k is a bl00dy long way in a pair!

Neil.

Ell Too Bee, 21/06

Three [Where's Wyatt - Ed] gallant Cygnets "competed" in last Sunday's London to Brighton bike ride. Riding for the British Heart Foundation our very own Pete "Statto"/"Loser" [delete as applicable] Leffler sent the following "report"...

I'll get these down before I forget or delete them by mistake!

I'm off for a hot bath. Gad my arse hurts!!

Perhaps he needs to get out more, whoops no - stay in more.

Bungalow BBQ Advance Warning, 19/06

A new date-for-your-diary is the annual Cygnets Bungalow BBQ. This year it's on Saturday 12th August from midday onwards. This PDF will tell you more than you want to know. Properly coordinated travel arrangements will be made nearer the time & might consist of a bungle-row, bungle-bike, bungle-bus, bungle-drive, bungle-rail or (for purists) a bungle-bungle.

In Like Flint, 19/06

ANOTHER Henley update. One crew has withdrawn from the Goblets leaving 16 entries for 16 places, so Nick & Neil are in and will be racing on Thursday 29th at Henley Royal - a fantastic achievement since they started the season six rowing points short of the S1 entry requirement and under the impression that St. Neots would be the highlight of their year.

With three Goblets pairs in three years we hear rumours that the Stewards are thinking of changing the name of the event to The Blue & White Cyglets & Waddles' Challenge Giraffe for Clueless Pairs. Although that may not be true.

Come on Cygnet!

Enley Royal, 18/06

The Stewards have sat and the list of qualifying races is up. Goblets details pasted below, or follow this link. The races are on Friday 23rd June.

THE SILVER GOBLETS & NICKALLS' CHALLENGE CUP - START: 6.00 p.m.

383  P.M. Lock & R.G. Davies (Lymington Amateur Rowing Club)

387  R.A. Skinner & A.S. Allsop (York City Rowing Club)

390  N.J.G. Wyatt & N.V. Pickford (Cygnet Rowing Club)

TOTAL: 3

SUBJECT TO WITHDRAWALS, THE FASTEST TWO PAIRS WILL QUALIFY

Marlow Update One, 17/06

2pm - Nick & Neil came second in the 0840 heat of the men's elite pairs at Marlow today so have gone straight to the final at 16:30. Check back here later for more.

Gobs 2006, 16/06

The full Henley entries list is now up on their website, including our own Goblets pair.

Pewter Tasting Backsplash, 15/06

A date for your diary. This year's joint BBLRC/Cygnet club day will be on Saturday 15th July. Watch this space for more details.

Also a poster for the upcoming rowing taster day, 25th June, can be found by clicking on that link back there.

Marlow Update Two, 17/06

5:30pm - The boys came 5th in the ME2- final unfortunately losing a place having held 4th for most of the race. The Henley Stewards sit tomorrow. We shall see...

Marlow Update One, 17/06

2pm - Nick & Neil came second in the 0840 heat of the men's elite pairs at Marlow today so have gone straight to the final at 16:30. Check back here later for more.

Gobs 2006, 16/06

The full Henley entries list is now up on their website, including our own Goblets pair.

Pewter Tasting Backsplash, 15/06

A date for your diary. This year's joint BBLRC/Cygnet club day will be on Saturday 15th July. Watch this space for more details.

Also a poster for the upcoming rowing taster day, 25th June, can be found by clicking on that link back there.

Lastly (& mainly for Dr. Baldwin M.Eng. K.Nob.) some bedtime reading - back-splash in rowing shell propulsion. Schmick.

Captain's Log, 14/06

I hope you all followed last week's safety tip because protection from the sun was very much the order of a blisteringly-hot weekend. But alas, the sun wasn't glinting off any Pewter for us at BMI Regatta. The S4 4+, acting-up at S3, were beaten in their heat and just squeezed out the rep. Still, they were back in time to watch the football (mmmm?) and word has it that they have some really good boat speed going, which bodes well for future racing. Davidson was also rowing above his status and lost a straight final in the S3 1x. The sculling races had been postponed for 1.5 hours as the strong wind against the high tide had rather made a mess of the water but I don't think he'll be using that as an excuse for the air shot off the start. I managed to avoid the (rather ridiculous) multiple repercharge system with a win in the heat taking me directly to the final but was pipped at the post, by half a length, in the novice 1x event.

Richmond is the next regatta for the squad although Nick and I have been persuaded to try a cheeky little race next weekend at Marlow. Well, when I say cheeky little race I'm actually referring to the Elite Pairs. Now, it's not that I'm not confident in my rowing ability but how on earth have I been persuaded to enter that, the last chance for all those international class athletes to impress The Stewards before Henley? Just a few weeks ago I was racing S2 against my own club at Borne! Peer pressure is a terrible thing you know (and yes, a Goblets entry has gone in - just in case).

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

MONEY:

FLEET:

SAFETY TIPS OF THE WEEK:

FROM THE PLA:

If you have been, do try to keep up with the umpires launch, its only 2k.

Neil.

Disorganised, 14/06

With various computers in various parts of London we at the blog find ourselves slightly confused by which email contains what information and (most importantly) where the hell it is.

We were hoping to have 3 bits up by now: (1) a reminder of the rowing taster day on the 25th - a rather spiffy poster coming soon; (2) the captain's log, our copy of which has mysteriously disappeared; (3) some rather grainy shots of BMI Regatta showing a couple of single scullers - just use your imagination. We'll get these sorted as soon as we can.

On the rowing front, we would like to wish the BBLRC intermediate VIII the best of luck for the Women's Henley qualifiers on Friday & fingers crossed, the regatta beyond. The regatta website contains all the details.

On our side, Nick (bow) & Neil begin their push for this year's Goblets at Marlow Regatta on Saturday. Their elite 2- heat is at a cock-crowingly early 08:40 and if they don't make the final directly are guaranteed a slot in the rep. The full draw can be found on the Marlow Regatta website.

Vest And Pants, 09/06

Got up late? In a bit of a rush? Forgotten your kit? It's OK because at Cygnet you can row in your underpants.

Following such a spectacle an impromptu meeting of the nicknames sub-committee was called in the boathouse garden & henceforth Psycho will be known as Knickers.

The 2 seat of the Wylie has been bleached.

Late news: unconfirmed reports are coming in that Geordie has bought a new t-shirt. If true it will be the first item of clothing he has bought since 1988. We must stress once again, this story is unconfirmed at present. More news as it comes in...

Captain's Log, 07/06

Bit of a long one this week, sorry.

Summer finally arrived at Peterborough Spring regatta with two glorious days of sun and a fairly [VERY - Ed] successful weekend's racing for the boys. Over 1000m on Saturday our novice 4+ was unlucky to be drawn in the strongest heat and went out early but the Senior 4 4+ proceed all the way to the final, being pipped into second place by Wolfson College (shouldn't these students be concentrating on their exams by now?). Having had "the worst outing ever" on Thursday, the S2 4- powered to victory in a straight final to win a point and a pot to drink their beer from. Congrats to Marc [Balders Baldwin], [French] Dave, Pete[y] and Ian [Geordie] who seemed a bit surprised but nevertheless very happy with the result. In the S2 2- Nick and Neil also finally managed to pick-up that elusive Peterborough pot after far too many second places over the course, with a hard fought win in the final after a comfortable semi.

The novices had a better day over the 500 sprint course on Sunday reaching the semis and the Senior 4 boat once again got right through to the final but still no silverware alas. The Senior 2 4- fared less well going out in their heat. Too much celebration from the day before or were the 6'4" tall boys in the powerhouse less suited to sprinting - you decide. Having picked up another point on Saturday the S2 2- were now a S1 2- for which there was no event on Sunday, just a lie-in and some ice creams. Nice.

Many thanks to all the crews and supporters for their help and enthusiasm which made for a great weekend away. Full results here http://www.peterboroughcityrowing.co.uk/managed/results.html.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

GARDEN PARTY - Saturday 24th June from 19.00.

Everyone should have already received electronic invitations for this event, which is exactly what it says on the tin and is intended to be a bit more sophisticated than the usual post regatta beer and darts session! The event is being organised by BBLRC but the Bar Steward has asked if you could spare 1/2 an hour behind the bar during the evening. Please contact Rhiannon to help out - rhiannon.meredith [at] gmail.com

TASTER DAY - Sunday 25th June. 14.00 - 17.00.

A Sunday afternoon event aimed primarily at the Civil Servants but if you have friends, family or partners that you think might fancy giving rowing or coxing a bash, please bring them along. All assistance would be appreciated and a great chance to show-off your skills/muscles/fitness/charm [penis - Ed] should you have any. More details on the website.

HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA - Friday 30th June

Peter and Pat Sly have kindly invited club members to joint them at their home, Old Blades, for Henley once again this year. An excellent day out at the most emblazered of all regattas and highly recommended. Posh hats for the ladies and club ties for the Gents and another chance for me to plug Nick Wyatt's New Club Tie Initiative - because if you're tie's not on, you're not comin' in. Email him on nickwyatt [at] hotmail.com if you need a (new) tie.

MONEY:

FLEET:

SAFETY TIPS OF THE WEEK:

FROM THE PLA:

For those of you who have done well, well done. For those of you who have done particularly well, particularly well done.

Neil.

ps: I'm away from Wednesday to Friday inclusive this week so please contact Marj or Stuart in my absence.

Cygnetborough, 04/06

Reports are filtering in of a great Saturday for Cygnet at Peterborough Spring. Sadly the novice 4+ went out in a fast first heat, but all our other crews made it to their respective finals.

The S2 4- of Balders, French David, Petey & Geordie are reported to have won in a qualifying straight final (four lanes at Peterborough). Geordie was restricted to a shandy top during his pub lunch & this (apparently) made all the difference. Although still technically a novice this win got French David his 3rd rowing point, and most excitingly marked Petey's qualifying novice win in the UK (don't ask). We understand that Marc has been dancin'/romancin'/givin' it all ever since.

The S2 2- containing Wyatt Minor (lower-peg-until-Michealmas-term) & Jean-Luc Pickfaard have also won their qualifying event bumping them up to S1.

A huge well done to all from the blog on a fantastic day's racing. Nothing gives us greater pleasure than seeing our crews performing well at competitive regattas like these [apart from DIY, which we're told we must get back to - Ed].

Lastly a reminder of the BBLRC summer garden party on the 24th. EVERYONE wants a ticket!

A Watchful Eye, 01/06

A watch has been found at our bungalow. If you think you may have lost a watch on a recent visit (sculling camp perhaps) please contact the webmaster with a description. That is all.

Happy Blogday 2 U, 31/05

As well as the date for this year's Barnes & Mortlake (International) Regatta, Saturday 10th June also marks [and we find this very hard to believe - Ed] the 5th birthday of our very own Cygnet blog.

To celebrate please join all past and present writers, photographers & editors for a birthday drink in the bar from 7pm on the 10th (after BMI).

Here's that first blog entry from all those years ago [and don't we all look young - Ed].

Week Ending Sunday 10/06/01

Karaoke (Saturday) - 'nuff said.

Peterborough Spring Draw, 31/05

The draws for Peterborough Spring are up, see the links below. Looks like we have a single, pair & 3 fours both days. Good luck to all racing crews - the Jillings on Jillings clash in VetC 1x promises to be interesting.

Saturday draw. Sunday draw.

Captain's Log, 30/05

After five weekends racing in a row, it felt like something of a holiday this weekend. Just some ordinary outings with various crews out: some training for Peterborough; some just enjoying the water on lower tides at last. Next-up is Peterborough Spring and we have numerous senior and novice fours, and a pair entered. The draw will be available here http://www.peterboroughcityrowing.co.uk/events_june.html.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

MONEY:

KIT:

Has your club tie has seen too many Henleys, Vets lunches and End-of-Season dinners? Does it have one too many dodgy stains? Well fear not for Nick Wyatt is organising some new ones. Normally retailing at 55GBP from T.M. Lewin, Nick has negotiated a very reasonable 18GBP per tie. Email him at nickwyatt [at] hotmail.com.

FLEET:

SAFETY TIPS OF THE WEEK:

If you have been, time to stop now and start training again.

Neil.

Bridges, 29/05

Alan's found a website with a lot of paintings of Thames bridges (including our own) which are available for sale and might be worth a look. They are all by an artist called Doug Myers. Click on the images below to go to his website.

Garden Party, 29/05

A quick date for your diary. Having now decided that our boathouse is a suitable venue for parties the Barnes Bridge Soc. Secs. are moving so fast that we can't keep up with their pace. The next date-for-your-diary is the evening of the 24th June (post-Richmond Regatta) when the Ladies will be hosting a garden party in our very own, erm, garden.

This will allow all our boys to enjoy Pimms from their just-won pots whilst flexing their muscles, puffing out their chests and (in quite a few cases) sucking in their hard-won stomachs.

In OTHER news, we hear that Psycho Bates pulled a 6:30 2k ergo test last week, making Wyatt's 6:31 seem positively pedestrian. Wyatt hasn't been seen since.

Humourously several of the older members of the club could be found in the bar afterwards telling stories of pacing him through it and how he couldn't have done it without them. Funny but we always thought pacemakers went faster than the target athlete for a period of the race, not consistently 30 pips slower!

French David has now given it all up & is rowing slowly with some old men. He has been heard asking Anna to "get between me & my rowing as much as you can".

You Walked Into The Party, 26/05

Stu's found some novice rowing porn on t'internet.

Captain's Log, 22/05

Despite the high winds and heavy showers Cygnet had great day out at Twickenham Regatta on Saturday with qualifying wins in two of the three events entered. Can I get away with "every cloud has a pewter lining"? [Yes but only once - Ed]

Firstly the two S2 pairs took on Sons and Broxborne in the semis with Wyatt/Pickford progressing to the final where they had a comfortable victory over Sons. Our treasurer was delighted to have a Cygnet crew for his first ever clipping of an ARA card (don't tell him, but to be honest he needs more practice - Nick now has a big hole where his right eye should be).

It was a longer, harder day for the Novices however, who endured three races around the outside of the long bend, rowing through Twickenham, Eastborne College and Thames on their way to a final against Kingston. In a tight race they once again came from behind with a dramatic final push around the bend to win by a canvas. Congratulations to Stuart, Matt, Nick, Barry and Esme for an excellent result and a novice pot very well earned.

The Senior 2 coxed four's straight final against UL went less well. Being kind we were "very well" beaten in a rather mismatched race that didn't really justify the wait until 7pm. As Nick was heard to remark "UL don't put out bad crews" - you don't say.

But hey, two out of three ain't bad.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

MONEY:

SAFETY TIPS OF THE WEEK:

We seem to have been very unlucky recently in that our outings are all on top of the tide. Just a reminder to take extra special care if you're out at the turn of the tide and to have a serious think about whether to go out at all on a high tide in these very high winds. In either case there's not much to be gained if all you're doing is worrying about steering or just staying afloat. Sometimes an erg is the better part of valour.

Oh, and the United Hospitals Boat Club bumps races reported in last week's log are in fact this week - oops!

FROM THE PLA:

1) Just a brief note to thank those of you who contributed your opinions on the effectiveness or lack thereof of the porthand buoys. I am happy to say that it seems very likely that the buoys will be staying. We will however be trialing a slightly larger buoy (still made of plastic), which we hope will not disappear beneath the waves when it is snagged by a plastic bag! If that is successful we might even look at the possibility of lighting, but that is for the future. I will keep you informed as to when the new buoy is going in (it will be downstream near Hammersmith),

2) Please read the following NTM, it concerns diving operations under Fulham Rail Bridge which are due to start on Monday of next week. Rowers and scullers must be aware of bridge closed signs and act accordingly, http://www.portoflondon.co.uk/notice2mariners/index.cfm/flag/2/id/2527/site/navigation.

If you have been, try not to race the best crew in the regatta next time.

Neil.

Hot To Trot, 21/05

A big thank you to Mr. Leffler for organising the new hot water timer switch in the ladies changing room. Not only can we now press the "extra hour" button just prior to outings to ensure piping hot water on our return, but we boys now have a COMPLETELY VALID excuse for bursting unannounced into the Barnes Bridge de-robing boudoir. "Oh I'm really sorry, I didn't realise there was anyone in here, I just wanted to turn on the water but I seem to have interrupted you whilst you are flicking each other playfully with towels, wearing nothing but..." [that's really enough - Ed].

Please practise your excuse a few times to make it sound...erm...convincing.

Tie Him Up, 19/05

We have it on good authority that Wyatt is buying club ties. How hard can it be (you ask yourselves) to buy a club tie? Now rephrase the question - how hard can it be for Wyatt to buy a club tie? Here's the blog's stab at a tie-buying process:

For Wyatt however it is proving quite tough and seems to involve many emails containing words like "poor form", "discontent", "1969", "2:1 ratio", "4:1 ratio" and, most tellingly, "stalled". Can we put him back on bins?

A Tale Of Two, 19/05

We at the blog made our annual trip to THE SHED on Thursday to give the ergos a damn good thrashing. We were also pleased to discover that our trip coincided with a boathouse curry night so were able to eat ourselves into a happy, limey stupor. More of that later, but first...

MY GOD. The state of the flamin' ergos. I'm sure that we used to wipe them down and take a bit of care of them a while ago, but the state of the slides was beyond belief. It took us about 5 minutes of scrubbing to get one so that it didn't feel like being pulled along Brighton beach on your arse. They're 1,000 pounds a pop you know - give 'em a wipe.

On a much more positive note it did our hearts good to see so many members of both clubs packed into the bar & club room, enjoying a truly magnificent, "curry-tastic feast". There was tikka, there was madras, there was veggie gloop. There were somasas and pappopippodums and naa-aaan breads. There was lime pickle. F*****g hell there was lime pickle.

The queue for the blog...erm...bog this morning was long indeed, and we've been burping spicy citrus flavours all day. Mmmmmmmm!

Our thanks should go to Katy & Jenny for (finally) organising a social in the boathouse. They even got Geordie washing up - something that T has never been able to do.

The flagrant display of Barnes Bridge pewter, however, was a bit sickening.

TRRC Emergency Meet, 17/05

See below, pretty self explanatory...

Dear All

I have called an Emergency Meeting of the Council for Wednesday May 31st at
London Rowing Club at 7.00 p.m. when the New Code of Practice proposed by
the Thames Regional Rowing Council and the PLA will be explained. All
Constituent Clubs are entitled and indeed encouraged to attend this meeting
of the Council.

Many Thanks

Martin Humphrys

Twickers Shifters, 16/05

The Twickers timetable is now available. Looks like both pairs & both fours have made it in. Good luck all crews.

An interesting paragraph in the current Rowperfect newsletter. What do you think?

Ever wondered why ergo monsters can't move boats? Casper Rekers, the Rowperfect inventor has the answer...

Rowing is a cyclic movement, based on a series of highly automated reflexes. One important effect of training is that an increase in the level of automation increases power generating efficiency. For this reason, cross-training should exercise muscles over the activity's full range of movement, load and speed of contraction. Therefore machines used for cross-training should simulate the dynamics of a light racing shell (e.g. a single scull) as precisely as possible. If they do not, a severe loss in power generating efficiency can be expected. That is clearly illustrated by the fact that the transfer of an oarsman from a stationary Concept II to the same machine on slides decreases the oarsman's power output to the flywheel instead of increasing it. The same occurs when transferring a rower from a stationary ergometer to a light racing shell, or vice versa. This explains why many good boat movers do not score well on stationary ergometers, and why some ergo champions are poor boat movers.

Is it time for you to join the Pod and really learn how to move your boat?

Captain's Log, 15/05

Congratulations first and foremost to the BB ladies as both their novice and senior 3 VIIIs won qualifiers at Putney Town regatta on Saturday. Two of the day's best races in fact, with the novices pipping ASL by a canvas and the S3 crew squeezing home with a mere two feet to spare against Parrs Priory. Come on The Bridge.

It was a frustrating day for Cygnet however, missing out in both the novice 4+ and the senior 2 pairs despite reaching the finals in both. The novices found IC just too well drilled (damn students, shouldn't they be writing essays?) whilst both the seniors pairs had the man at the top of this list to be contended with, beating Nick and Neil in the semi then Geordie and Andy in the final. He's rowing for Reading University apparently (damn students, shouldn't they be writing essays?). Afterwards Nick said he wondered why they had that Union Jack/Lion logo on the canvas of their brand new boat. Hey-ho.

Apparently there was lots of activity at the boathouse on Sunday morning but for some unknown reason I was slogging round a half-marathon course further up river with fellow Cygnets Nick Wyatt and Owen Herbert. Actually, to be fair, it was only me slogging as they both beat me easily with Nick putting in a stunning time of 1.19.13 to finish 19th overall. Full results here http://www.ranelagh-harriers.com/results/060514.html.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP:

MONEY:

2K ERG:

Well you can't say you weren't warned [we weren't warned, and I have a slight twinge in my left shoulder, plus I am a big scaredy-cat who can see his own mortality in those f*****g LCD numbers, erm, sorry, lost it a bit there - ed]. I'd like all the active racing members to post a score by next Wednesday night please - that's the 24th May. It should be witnessed by your peers [this'll help - Ed] and ideally done together as a squad under Kathryn's watchful eye. It doesn't have to be a pb we 'd just like a score on the door please.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

See attached document [removed - Ed] about the United Hospitals Boat Club Bumps races this week. They will take place upstream of Kew Bridge on 24th, 25th and 26th May between 1600-2030hrs during which times the crossing point is temporarily moved down to Brentford lock. Probably best avoided altogether (damn students, shouldn't they be writing essays?).

If you have been, Neil.

We Are Not A Running Club, 14/05

Cygnet was well represented in today's Richmond half marathon with three of our boys competing and (we're assuming as we haven't seen the results yet) doing us proud. Some very small pictures of Nick, Neil & Owen below - although to be honest they could be anyone - so let's say they're Stephenson, Golder & Baldwin, just for fun...

STOP PRESS (10:30pm): Nick Wyatt a very impressive 19th (out of 725 competitors) in 1:19. Owen Herbert 235th in 1:39. Neil Pickford 256th in 1:40. Full results here.

All this activity left Stu in charge at the boathouse and he master-minded a small sculling pod and a 4- before (like a good VC) falling on his [pork] sword and volunteering to fill a seat in a Barnes Bridge novice 4. The fact that the new girls were rather stunning was just a coincidence.

Sadly no pots for any Cygnet crews at Putney Town. Our S2 pairs came a cropper to a Reading University crew, half of whom had won the British Indoor Champs last October. There were rumours of pot hunting with a view to the Goblets at Henley this year. We at the blog cannot condone this behaviour in any way as we feel it is not in keeping with the spirit of these local regattas or the sport in general.

Must stop there as we have a shiny new pot of Dulux and are planning on painting our kettle black...or something.

In other news, Barnes Bridge won S3 & novice eights at Putney Town (both were qualifying events). Well done to the ladies. Like the Guiness, we are not bitter - although Gledhill did try us a bit.

STOP PRESS 2 (10:45pm): please note that upcoming pod times can now be found at the top of the homepage [where they belong]. Is this the untidiest rowing club website homepage in existence or is it a cunningly designed one-stop-shop? Who cares!

Poot Nay, 12/05

The Putney Town draw came out yesterday. We have a novice 4 and a couple of S2 pairs racing; Barnes Bridge have a novice eight and a S3 eight. Race times are:

Best of luck to all crews.

Also quite an interesting safety thread on RSR based around Borne. Were you racing? Were you watching? What do you think?

Castelnau Flat, 09/05

From Tania, BBLRC:

Double room to rent in a 3 bed flat on Castelnau, Barnes, near Hammersmith Bridge. 600 pcm all bills included, inc. Sky & broadband. Available at the end of May. To share with a couple and 1 other girl. Guy preferred to keep things balanced.

Please contact the webmaster for the contact # if interested.

How Do Rumours Get Started, 09/05

Calibos

Naylor

After hearing rumours we at the blog have done some digging and can now categorically deny the fact that the son of Calibos rows for Cygnet.

[Is it me or is it getting warm in here? - Ed]

Captain's Log, 09/05

Another weekend, another Tideway regatta and another pot in the trophy cabinet. It was Borne at Chiswick on Saturday and our large entry seemed to rankle a bit with the commentators because every other race seemed to feature a Cygnet boat, but hey, if you can't support your local club regattas then what's the point?

It didn't start too well with all three novice 1x and the S4 1x going out in their respective heats. The senior 2 4- was DQ'd after a promising start was followed by a clash. Despite being ahead and the race only 100m old, the umpires red flag went up faster than Billy Bowden's index finger for an LBW shout. Indeed the umpires strict insistence that the race follow a very narrow course between the center-line and other boats rowing up on Surrey caused more than a few comments in the bar afterwards.

The Novice 4+ provided the race of the day but they missed out by just three feet to the eventual winners, Canford school and BBLRC also got the wrong result in some close racing as well.

However things improved in the premium event of the Regatta, the S2 2-, where the three Cygnet pairs beat all comers to provide the adoring crowds with not only an all Cygnet Semi but an all Cygnet Final as well. Pickford and Wyatt continuing their form from last season to take the silverware from French and Collier. All very exciting, more of the same next weekend please.

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP: http://ical.mac.com/neilpickford/Cygnet_Rowing_2006

MONEY:

FLEET:

Thanks to Ali for taking Cygnets to the menders during the week. We should have the boat back by the end of the month.

SAFETY TIPS OF THE WEEK:

If you have been, you only have yourself to blame.

Neil.

Futon Express, 05/05

We hear tell of a couple of double-bed sized futon mattresses going for free at the moment. Suitable for visiting guests or perhaps for the bottom of your tent for added comfort at the upcoming away regattas. If you're interested please email mcollier[at]btinternet[dot]com to make arrangements.

Good Club Good Club, 05/05

An interesting thread entitled What Makes A Club Good? is kicking off on Rec.Sport.Rowing at the moment. Do you think our clubs are good? If so tell us why - the most humourous reply will win a small alcoholic prizette, or perhaps a Caramac. "There's nothing bad in a Caramac".

We are now up to v2 of the Borne draw for Saturday. Keep up-to-date with further developments here.

Spelltastic, 04/05

This makes us at the blog seem very boring [letters of dissent to the usual address please - Ed] but we are getting very enthused about our local libraries at the moment. If you don't use them please do, and if you are already a member you just need your card number to start using the OED online for free. Balderdash & piffle I hear you shout. No it's true! How cool is that?

Perhaps the BBLRC webmaster should take note as hes [sic] a pryme [sic] kandidayte [sic].

Captain's Log, 02/05

Lots of rowing with boats of almost all varieties (except an eight) out over the long Bank Holiday weekend.

Heroes this weekend were the Novice 4+ who beat Royal Holloway (2.5 lengths) and Vesta (easily) very late in the day at Chiswick Regatta to take the silverware. Not a qualifier, alas, but a great result for Chris, Nick Barry, Stuart and Esme. Congratulations to that crew, I know that it's been a long time coming for a couple of the guys. Commiserations to the BBLRC novice VIII who were just piped to the post by a mere canvas in their final at Chiswick. That pot can't be far away.

Zeros this week included the webmaster who over-slept on Monday and failed to show-up for his own sculling pod, doh!

THIS WEEK:

COMING UP: http://ical.mac.com/neilpickford/Cygnet_Rowing_2006

MONEY:

Please keep up to date with monies owed to Marj. A list is posted in the changing room.

A reminder that the 300 club is open for the 2006 season and that active squad members should be first in the queue for some tickets. Available, as always, through Alan Cox.

FLEET:

Please note that Cygnets is out of action due to some shoulder damage. Cygnet Friends reunited is currently on Cygnets old rack.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK - Sound Signals:

A single 'toot' from a motor vessel means it is steering to starboard/right (rowers left/bow-side). You should do the same thing in order that you pass each other port-to-port - ie they pass you on stroke-side.

Two 'toots' means I'm steering to port/left (rowers right/stroke-side). This is less likely but you should cooperate as required to stay safe.

Five 'toots' means that the motor vessel is unsure. A good look should be required followed by quick, decisive action in order to show your intention.

If you have been, make sure that it's water tight before pouring beer into it.

Neil.

Borne Draw, 02/05

The provisional draw for next Saturday's Borne Regatta is now up on the MAA website. A quick scan through indicates that all our crews are racing, the highlight of the day being the 5-boat S2 2- event with no less than 3 Cygnet crews "competing".

New Home Format, 30/04

From now on you'll find the latest from the blog on our homepage, making it oh-so-much-easier to keep up to date with the news. You'll also see new quick links up at the top of the homepage. Are these changes useful? Would you like to see others? Please let us know at the usual address.

A big well done to our winning Chiswick Regatta novice crew, comfortably beating Royal Holloway in the semi & then Vesta in the final on Saturday. Unfortunately only 3 entries made it a non-qualifying event, but the guys (coxed by Esme) had a great day & are looking forward to their next race at Borne. All the club's results can be found here

Captain's Log, 24/04

A glorious sunny day on Saturday brought the masses out with two coxless fours, two coxed fours, a coach and several singles all enjoying the sunshine. The good water got even better as the tide dropped, making for ideal racing conditions for Hammersmith Regatta, the first Tideway event of the season. It was all a bit soon after Easter but we did enter a four and a pair both of which came comfortably second to AK, losing out in the second half of the race after promising starts. Now about those 2k ergs...

We did manage some surprise silverware in the shape of the ever reliable Neil Jackson (the surprise being that he didn't know that he'd been entered until 24 hours before, but that's another story). He won the Vet D doubles in a composite with Mike for AK with a crushing, err, row-over in the final.

Congratulations also to the BB Ladies who picked up a pot in the womens S3 eights against Sons of the Thames. Our erstwhile captain, Mike Collier, had pulled a few strings and greased a few palms to get their very late entry into the regatta and is rather hopeful that, under the circumstances, a few beers might be heading his way.

In stark contrast to Saturday, Sunday was wet and horrible but two coxless and one coxed four, a coach and a single braved the elements.

There was however, another Cygnet success this weekend as on Friday night they powered to victory in the inaugural darts match against the South London Darts League with a crushing 13- 5 victory. More about that on the blog. Now about those 2k ergs...

THIS WEEK:

We have a Novice 4 entered in Chiswick on Saturday. Their heat, vs Royal Holloway, isn't until 5.30 with the final at 7.05 vs Vesta. Good luck to them.

Generally I'd like to see more second outings at the weekend and not necessarily in the same boat as the first outing

SCULLING PODS.

Mike is kindly arranging sculling pods again, the dates, times and details of which will be posted on the web. Pods may be tailored to different skill levels but are an ideal way to keep up the momentum of Sculling camp and are also useful for scullers new to the tideway to go out and learn the navigational ropes. Currently there are two arranged; one for 18.30 on Tuesday and 9.00 on Saturday. Please contact him if you wish to join the pod.

COMING UP: http://ical.mac.com/neilpickford/Cygnet_Rowing_2006

ADMIN:

A quick reminder that anyone wishing to race must have current ARA membership. A list of who owes Marj what is posted in the changing room. This has been paid out of Marj's own pocket so please be prompt in paying her back. No money - no entry

300 CLUB:

Yep it's that time of year again, time to buy your 300 club tickets. Alan Cox is still the man in charge so please contact him and contribute to this essential fund raiser. All the proceed for the 300 club go towards new equipment so it's particularly appropriate that the active members who use that equipment have their fair share of tickets.

SAFETY TIPS OF THE WEEK:

The Thames21 yellow litter cages are on our patch on Thursday. Six cages are going in at 07.00 close to the Middlesex wall between Barnes Bridge and MAA Boathouse and should be removed by 17.00. The Driftwood barge will also be in attendance all day. See attached map.

The Driftwood is be out and about today adjusting the positions of some of the upstream buoys.

Could private singles please sign out with either the name or ID number of the boat. Putting "own" or "1x" doesn't help identify who is out especially if they are overdue.

If you have been, perhaps not the night before a regatta next time.

Neil.

Anti Social, 24/04

Those switched-on BBLRC soc. secs. are at it again, this time organising a p**s-up in Putney the night before Borne Regatta. Those of you wishing to join Geordie please see below...

We are planning another social. This time it is going to be Putney as we think it works out to be a little more central for people. Its on Friday 5th May starting at 7pm at The Boat House pub near the river. The pub also does food if you fancy eating too. We may even have a few drinks out of some newly acquired pots!

Can you please drop me or Katy and e-mail or phone call to let us know if your planning on coming?

Also another date for your diary will be Thursday 18th May. We're planning a curry night!

Cheers,

Jenny & Katy.

We hear they have a sponsored abstinence day in the pipeline, favourite date is Henley Friday!

Arras Arse, 24/04

More on last Friday's arras [arrows - Ed] from our management correspondent...

In a dodgy bit of gamesmanship SLDL were over half an hour late then insisted on only referring to people by their "darts name". With 5 players on each team and the potential for 25 games to be played games were reduced to 301 as it was already 9pm.

Having won the toss, Sunil "The Heat" Duggal stepped upto the oche first for SLDL against Andy "Pretty Boy" Naylor. After a shakey start Naylor prevailed and set-up a solid platform from which Cygnet launched a match winning display eventually taking it 13-5.

Notable stats from the match:

The date of the return match is tbc but it will be on their home turf and they're not happy. C'mon Cygnet!

A Truth Universally Acknowledged, 23/04

We at the blog can't help but smile to outselves as we ponder the rich irony of Barnes Bridge missing the entry deadline for Saturday's Hammersmith Regatta, getting Cygnet members on the regatta committe to orchestrate them a race against Sons, and then winning it whilst our own boats came away with nothing [although this could have something to do with the night before's darts tournament at the boathouse, apparently el vino did flow - Ed].

The pressure must now be on young-gun captain Pickford as the club had already won 4 pots at this point last year. How will he cope? Watch this space!

We also hear that our very own [although you can have him if you want - Ed] Geordie won the Hammersmith Regatta quiz. First prize being 24 cans of ESB. Like taking coals, etc.

Palo Alto, 21/04

Some quite nice "promotional" videos for Palo Alto rowing. I think they are a High School but with university students looking ever younger who knows. Perhaps we could do domething similar at Cygnet? Our three might be...

Palo Alto Get It Started - Palo Alto Typical Practise - Palo Alto Cox Interview

Captain's Log, 18/04

Hello, I'm back. I do hope that everyone have a good Easter? Apparently there wasn't much activity on the rowing front this weekend so I can only assume that everyone took a last opportunity to stuff their faces with chocolate eggs before diving headlong into training for the regatta season - small boats, evening outings, 2k ergs, standing starts and a gallon pot for all the winners to drink from - all very exciting. First up is Hammersmith on Saturday where a (new) S2 pair and a S2 coxless four are entered, hoping to bag the first silverware of the season in straight finals. Good Luck

Before we rush into the excitement of regattas and 2k ergs, a quick word on Spring Sculling Camp which took place the weekend before Easter. A huge (record?) turnout over the weekend of well over 30 scullers of various skill levels enjoyed some marvelous weather, helpful coaching, top-notch catering and excessive drinking. The blog has most of the salient facts and some photos with doubtless be posted soon. A big thanks to everyone for all their efforts in making it another successful weekend at the bungalow.

THIS WEEK:

That leaves Monday, Wednesday and Friday for weights, runs, sculling outings and practicing 2k ergs.

Forthcoming Regattas can be found here http://ical.mac.com/neilpickford/Cygnet_Rowing_2006 with the ones in CAPITAL LETTERS being the races that we're really gunning for and those in Lower Case being optional extras/alternatives. Get 'em in your diary and let me know your availability, I want to start putting winning crews together. Bookmark this page and keep an eye on it as it will be updated. Also available via the website.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK (From the PLA):

1) A notice to mariners regarding the safe use of high speed motor launches, coaches take note http://www.portoflondon.co.uk/notice2mariners/index.cfm/flag/2/id/1299/site/maritime.

2) As part of the ongoing trial of buoyage on the Thames some of the buoys upstream of Chiswick bridge are going to be moved. This is mainly so that they are easier to navigate at low water, but also to increase the efficacy in serving to delineate lanes of traffic. The buoys that will be moved are the UL buoy, the Oliver's Ait buoy, the Brentford Ait Buoy and the Lot's Ait Buoy. I want to get this done as soon as possible and hope to do it next week. When I know for certain what the timings are I will confirm with you all. When the buoy's have been moved I would be grateful for any feedback both negative and positive,

If you have been, did you notice that I'd mentioned 2k ergs?

Neil.

Howlin Mad, 15/04

Before reading this blog entry please get this going & then read along...

In 2006 a crack women's eight missed a regatta for an administrative error they didn't commit.

These women promply broke down snivelling in the Chiswick undergrowth.

Today, still rowing for the civil service, hopes remain high for a first regatta win.

When they had a problem.

When no-one else could help.

When they eventually found them (they were in the bar).

They were able to hire...

THE CYGNET TEAM (fixing regattas a speciality)!

Hammersith Regatta, Saturday 22nd April 2006
Race 58 3:45pm Women's S3 8+ BBLRC (Surrey) Sons (Middx) FINAL!!!

Best of luck to the girls from all at the blog.

Let Battle Commence, 12/04

Our opening salvos of the regatta season will be fired on Saturday 22nd at Hammersmith Regatta. Both entered crews have races so why not get yourself along to the AK balcony and watch what promises to be some exciting racing.

At 1:25pm Pretty-Boy & Geordie feature in a straight final of S2 pairs against AK. Then at 2:45pm our S2 4- (Neil, P-B, Geordie & Balders) have themelves a bye straight into their final. We suspect Geordie will be quite puffed once it's all over.

The full draw can be found here. Good luck to all our crews and bad luck to BBLRC who fell at the [form-filling] first.

Sculling Camp News, 10/04

With most of the captaincy in and around the bungalow until Thursday we at the blog have taken the executive decision to provide a quick update.

The blog left sculling camp late on Sunday afternoon narrowly avoiding the torrential downpours which (obviously) decided to start just as most of the boats were on the far bank being derigged by many of out gallant members.

Fortunately this slightly damp end to proceedings didn't reflect the weather for most of the weekend and some sunburned faces were in evidence on Saturday night after a day of glorious spring sunshine.

Events followed the usual format with a safety briefing on Saturday morning followed by beginners' coaching whilst the more experienced went for outings. We counted about 5 swimmers over the weekend with the final coaching tally being Cox (2 swimmers), Pickford (2 swimmers & 1 stuck in the reeds), French (1 swimmer), Collier (0 swimmers). Not a record, but definitely the right side of the average. Saturday night saw high-ranking statistician Wyatt donning his chefs hat (but not bothering to wash his hands) before preparing burgers & sausages for the great (drunken) unwashed. Before retiring (retreating) to bed we spotted John Smiths, Pedigree, Stella, Tequila, Port, Wine, Sherry & Absinthe. It wasn't pretty.

Rhiannon (ex-rower) was quite literally chained to the kitchen the whole weekend where she, and her band of gallant helpers, rustled up some smashing grub with only one saucepan and a slotted spoon between them.

Lots more news once the captain gets back, and a final reminder that boat unloading will be taking place this Thursday evening - so if you enjoyed the camp please come down and lend a hand in getting all the equipment back into the boathouse.

In other news, two crews have been entered for the upcoming Hammersmith Regatta (the season's opener) and we have it on good authority that the draw will be up later today.

Up The Cut, 05/04

I know that people take the mickey out of us for the speed which some of these entries go up, but I can't help feeling it is a bit of a double-edged sword. Anyway, this from our own French David...

Surely the record is up, rather than down the cut. And I've done it in 77. (But Barrows was almost certainly watching).

...the 2nd part of that sentence relates to the fact that Matt is currently spending his days in a very warm & sandy place looking at satellite images of us which are being updated slightly more often than Google Earth (and to a much higher resolution).

Have we said too much?

Camper, 05/04

For any of you that might be wavering with regard to this weekend's sculling camp why not take a look at the pages below to get an idea of what you'll be missing.

Spring 2002, Autumn 2002, Spring 2003, Spring 2004, Spring 2005, Autumn 2005.

Some interesting S.C. facts:

Suse Ten Hooray, 04/04

Now we know that nobody really cares, but we at the blog have just undergone a rather traumatic upgrade to SuSE Linux version 10.0. Excitingly that means that our kernel is now at version 2.6.13-15.8 and that we also have a whizzy new firewall which has left us scratching our heads over the last couple of days as to why telnet, ftp, ssh, scp and all the other things that used to work suddenly didn't.

Anyway all now appears well and we really must get on and do some work. Large blue IT corporations don't run themselves you know.

Captain's Log, 03/04

Well it's definitely April - sun, rain, wind, the works this weekend and a casual, end of term, feeling at the boathouse as both the rowing and climatic seasons changed over from winter to summer. A coxed and coxless four out on both days with some new chaps in the tank and some old chaps in their singles. An amusing little aside on Sunday as Marj took the novices from the four in the tub for coxing lessons in the strong, wind assisted stream. Fortunately for everyone else on the river Batsey is far too tall to fit in most coxswains seats and far better suited to the less cerebral art of sitting in the middle of the boat and "laying down some raw slabs of power".

Oh, and some foreign 'land economy' students had some kind of race Sunday afternoon. Silly sods, the conditions on the river were awful. They'd have been much better-off in our bar watching it on telly.

THIS WEEK:

If you haven't already told Stuart please let Marj know by Wednesday evening if you want to come to Sculling Camp (Stuart is away this week). Details were circulated last week but to remind you - it starts at 10.00 on Saturday and you will need plenty of kit, a towel, a rigger-jigger and some money. If you're staying all weekend a tent, sleeping bag, roll mat etc would also be useful as, unless you want to sleep on the floor, bed space is very limited.

Sculling Camp officially ends on Sunday afternoon but Club members are welcome to join us at the bungalow between Monday 10th and Thursday 13th for more sculling or even just a beer. Beds and boats should be available for most of the week (but food and beer is not included). A call or text to Marj's mobile would be appreciated if you do intend to come during the week.

Because of Sculling Camp most of the club singles and double/pairs will be unavailable from 7th-13th April inclusive. Please stay after outings on Thursday 13th to help unload the trailer.

TRAINING:

Lighter evenings mean we can get out on the water but that shouldn't mean a cessation of land training. Weights and ergs are still important (there will be erg tests) and cross training such as running, cycling and swimming are all strongly encouraged.

Circuits are over but Greg has asked me to pass on the importance of stretching and eating immediately after outings and, indeed, exercise generally. Never stretch cold but stretching should be as much a part of your training as everything else. If you need treatment or advice on an injury he has special rates for rowers. Contact him on edelston[at]gmail[dot]com and remind him you're from Cygnet.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Evening outings are great but please be aware of sunset times before you boat. We don't row after dark so please tailor the length of outings accordingly and wear light coloured clothing. Crews are welcome to arrange their own outings on non-squad nights but remember to sign out and back in on the board and approved steersmen only please.

There is unlikely to be a log next week as I'm away at the bungalow so Happy Easter and

If you intend to, it has nothing to do with chocolate rabbits you know.

Neil.

http://ical.mac.com/neilpickford/Cygnet_Rowing_2006

Captain's Log, 27/03

6 months of training, 20 minutes of pain then it's all over. Should we have done better, could we have gone faster? We will never know but all crews reported a Head well rowed. Cygnet I (S2) finished 174 in 19.40.75 and Cygnet II (S4) were the 385th over the line in 22.03.67. The (scratch) Cygnet Vets were placed 52nd in 20.30.58. Full results and photos available here http://www.kingston.ac.uk/~kx21229/finish.htm and here http://www.vrc.org.uk/vets_head.

A big thanks to all the crew members, coxes, subs and coaches for their effort over the last few months and to the everyone from both clubs for driving launches, marshaling, boating, cleaning, feeding and generally supporting the crews, the event and the sport in general. Love your work.

So a month of readjustment as we transfer from Head to Regatta season by way of a bit of a break, a sculling camp and some over packaged chocolate eggs. Details on how training will take shape to follow but for the uninitiated weekday training will mostly transfer onto the water as soon as it light enough (next week) although there should always be time for weights and ergs in a rowers training programme.

THIS WEEK:

THE BOAT RACE:

Will be at 4.45 on Sunday evening. Always worth a butchers even if it's just at the spectators on the hard who have forgotten about the wash from the flotilla and are stood far too close to the water. Simple pleasures.

SCULLING CAMP:

8th and 9th April. Details are attached and there are posters up at the club. It's the usual format but we won't be packing up on Sunday afternoon so there's even more sculling time this year. Please do let Stuart know if you intend to come along. His email address is vice[at]cygnet-rc.org.uk

REGATTA SEASON:

It seems to get earlier every year and this year is no exception with Hammersmith Amateur kicking off the season the weekend after Easter! As an incentive Fullers are sponsoring a Hammersmith Regatta Quiz. Details can be found here http://www.cygnet-rc.org.uk/hamm_quiz.htm.

More details of the planned regatta season can be found via the Coming Up link on the website.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES:

Geordie is busy arranging a darts competition against a local ladies team. If you think you might have what it takes to play this future olympic sport please let him know. Huge beer gut and heavy gold bracelets are optional.

It has also been muted (mostly by me) that we ought to get a Cygnet cricket XI together for a couple of friendly games over the summer. Once again Geordie has a contact (doesn't he always) who is happy to provide some competition, so if you fancy a game let me know (and whether you prefer to bat or bowl).

Back to more athletic pursuits. If any one would like to join some of us for the Richmond Half marathon on 12th May details and booking form are available here http://www.sportsystems.net/ranelagh/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=18

Ali Elliot of BBLRC and coach at Lady Eleanor Holles school has asked me to plug their 'An evening with Steve Redgrave' on Friday 5th May. "The profits go to sending our little darlings off to Austrialia on a Rowing trip later in the year". If you fancy a bit of hero worship, a flyer with more details is attached.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Now the clocks have gone forward the gin palaces and pleasure cruisers will start to emerge from up-river. If you need to communicate your preference for a reduction in their speed, please do so nicely. Swearing at them to "cut your effin wash" is what has caused the PLA to investigate rowing activity on the Tideway in the first place.

If you have been, would you mind singing Happy Birthday to my Mum?

Neil.

Holiday Blog, 24/03

The blog is away cross country skiing in Norway to improve its base fitness in time for the Men's Head.

Doh!

The office re-opens on Monday 3rd, why not reminisce via the quotes page, the gallery, or some old blogs while we're away 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Gallery Quotes.

Lastly take a look at the two on the right at the recent WEHoRR prizegiving - just looking a fraction too pleased with themselves we think?

Kingston, 24/03

Some shots of Aries from Kingston found by Psycho. Click on them to see full size...

For us at the blog the highlights include the look of hatred on Guy's face as he glimpses Bates bladework in shot 3 and the always entertaining French grimace, here glimpsed during the drive (2) and just before the catch (4). What do you think he looks like when he has an orgasm?

The photos above are from OnlyRowingPhotos.com and are for sale.

Hammersmith Regatta Quiz, 22/03

Hammersmith Regatta (the first Tideway regatta of the year) & Fuller's Brewery are pleased to announce a prize quiz to help publicize the event. Full details can be found here. Prizewinners will be drawn on the day of the regatta and contacted shortly afterwards.

Multiple entries (particularly from Geordie) will not be tolerated.

Captain's Log, 20/03

Well Saturday was very unpleasant. You know that you're in trouble when you throw the boat and the crew has to take three steps backwards to stop it taking off - good job it wasn't a westerly wind! That bitter ice cold wind made Kingston Head a fairly unpleasant experience with some of the worst water conditions some of us have ever raced in, enough to give the Tideway a run for it's money. Not much to be taken from rowing in that but a big thanks to both crews for the efficient logistical effort in getting there and back and for giving it a bash anyway. Results are here http://www.kingstonrc.co.uk/krc_news/krc_news/kingston_head_of_the_river_race_results.html.

Sunday was a much nicer day but alas, illness prevented Taurus boating as an eight, so a IV-, a 2x and an erg went out instead. Aries did get a afloat and had a very constructive outing under the watchful eye of Simon French, bow from our Henley pair last year. Many thanks to Simon for his input and congratulations to him for getting in the Durham first VIII (at bow) for the HoRR, going off at Number 10. I'm sure that he'd appreciate a little cheer on Saturday too...

THIS WEEK:

It's the taper that you've all been waiting for so make the most of it - no booze and lots of sleep.

VISITING CREWS:

Durham University will be using the boathouse as a training base during the day all this week and there will be some foreign crews staying with us (in the shed and the changing rooms) on Friday and Saturday night. Our German friends from RG Benrath will also be here as usual so do please make them feel especially welcome.

OTHER STUFF:

Friday March 31st The BB ladies Social Secs. are arranging a post Head Social at the Fine Line in Clapham at 8pm. The nearest tube is Clapham Common and if you head towards Budgen.s then Barclays Bank on the left hand side when you come out of tube station . its quite big so you shouldn.t miss it. All welcome.

A few or us are planning to do the Richmond Half Marathon. If you fancy giving it a crack the details are here http://www.sportsystems.net/ranelagh/Scripts/prodView.asp?idproduct=18.

If you have been, thanks for all the effort and good luck on Saturday. Work hard but most of all enjoy. Come on Cygnet!

Neil.

Monday Bitz, 19/03

The Bollywood films are coming so thick and fast that we might have to start vetting quality. Here's Psycho's effort - obviously modern English degrees no longer include a grammar component?

Also a reminder from Jenny & Katy, the Barnes Bridge Soc Secs about the upcoming off-site meet-and-greet...

The social on Friday March 31st will be at the Fine Line in Clapham at 8pm. The nearest tube is Clapham Common and if you head towards Budgens then Barclays Bank on the left hand side when you come out of tube station. It's quite big so you shouldn't miss it.

...we always thought the point of Soc Secs was to keep us drinking at the boathouse, not to get us away. I guess we're not as young as we used to be.

Saturday's Kingston Head results can be found here.

Lastly here's an early shot of Taurus in the Kingston Head. They look pretty good, perhaps bow could afford to square a little earlier. I'm sure more photos will be on-line soon.

Captain's Log, 13/03

What a busy weekend! Both eights went afloat in their racing configurations for normal outings on Saturday then left the river to the mercy of the 66th Women's Head of the River Race. Very many thanks to everyone who hung around, cheered on the BB ladies and helped out with the many and varied tasks that were asked of them. Where would they be without us? Results.

Two coxless fours out at the normal time on Sunday but a late start for the eights for a short practice outing before retiring to the boathouse for Big Andy's Slap-up Bonza Breakfast, then out again for the pre-HoRR taster that is the Hammersmith Head. Both crews reported reasonable rows but there is certainly plenty to work on in the next couple of weeks, particularly in the concentration and pulling harder departments. Results.

THIS WEEK:

MONEY:

Marj is still owed entry monies so please bring your cheque books or wads of cash with you next time you're down

COMING UP:

The next few weekends look like this:

It's all on the website!

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Well more health than safety advice really. Only a couple of weeks to go until the HoRR so it's important to be looking after yourselves. Eat well, sleep well, stay off the booze and avoid people with anything resembling a cold, flu or chicken pox. We'll train hard this week then have an easy week next week in order to be as ready as we can for the big day. Oh, and Mike's bought a scooter (sorry motor-cycle) so be afraid, be very afraid.

If you have been, next time try to avoid barging in on semi-naked Ladies using our changing room.

Neil.

Holy, 08/03

...or you could get out a bit more....

Direct Err, 07/03

Geordie's made a Bollywood film. How many stars does it rate?

Captain's Log, 07/03

A much more pleasant weekend on the river, if a bit nippy, saw both eights out on Saturday with three singles and a double out in the pod for second outings. With only a few weeks to the Head a slightly disappointing turnout on Sunday saw some reshuffling resulting in one eight, a four and two singles going afloat.

THIS WEEK:

We're in the final run up to the Head now - the last three training weeks and a couple of practice races then we can wind down and enjoy the longer, warmer days of April. Let's see some commitment for the final push please, both with weekday training and weekend outings particularly with regards to timekeeping for outings. Eyes down for the final chukka as it were.

MONEY:

There is a list up on the notice board detailing who owes Marj what for all these races. This has come out of her own pocket so please check what you owe and settle up promptly with Marj. If you're planning to race over the regatta season (and I do hope you are) you can always pay more than you owe and get ahead.

WEHoRR:

Any time you can spare on Saturday afternoon to help out with the Women's head and also to cheers on our own BB Ladies would be much appreciated.

Be aware that the boathouse is likely to be open much of the day so if it's valuable, lock it up - fellow rowers may not be the only visitors wandering around the place!

The Cygnet facilities will also be in use by visiting female crews, you will need to use the facilities yourself of course but please respect the fact that there could be ladies present as well.

K.I.T.:

Keep It Tidy. The boathouse captain has (quite rightly) had a little rant about the state that the kitchen is being left in after outings. Please make the effort to tidy-up after yourselves.

COMING UP:

As I mentioned last week there's loads of stuff coming up in the next six weeks. I won't go through it all again but please keep an eye on the website and notice boards.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

The river is getting increasingly busy as the Heads approach so please be patient and polite. There will be more launches, more crews doing pieces and more visiting crews. Be especially aware if you are steering as not everyone will be as aware of the local navigation rules/practices/tides as you are.

If you have been, excellent!

Neil.

Made Up Pod, 28/02

Tides are good for a pod this coming Saturday. Details on our pod page. Email Mike if interested. Note that it'll only run weather permitting.

Bit of a thread going on RSR to identify this young (Dutch) lady. Can't think why? Erging in makeup, who'd have thought it possible? Oh yes - all our boys who witness it every Monday night.

Captain's Log, 27/02

Horrible cold and (very) windy conditions this weekend didn't deter both eights from the water although I'm not sure that the coxes agreed that it was such a great idea! They were joined on Saturday by a mixed quad who were equally unimpressed with the conditions and gave rise to speculation about whether the Hammersmith Womens and Juniors Head would actually take place on Sunday. Despite the ferocious cold wind whipping-up white horses against the ebb the race did indeed go ahead with one brave BBLRC crew in the mix. We still await the results.

Many thanks to all the guys who stayed on on Sunday to help in the garden, cheer on the Ladies and help rescue the American School(girl) quad. You'll be relieved to hear that their contact with the Surrey buttress of Barnes Bridge and then graceful capsize into the freezing waters of the river was follow by swift rescue and deployment to warm showers and tea with no more harm done than a bent gate and some wounded pride. The garden may take a little longer to recover!

THIS WEEK:

It's only 4 weeks to the HoRR now so be prepared for outings to be a little longer as we build up to the big day.

Peterborough City RC will be our guests at the boathouse all of the coming weekend, so lock up your daughters and your valuables! No, but seriously, please make them welcome and be prepared for a busier than usual boathouse this weekend. We may even do some work on the water with Peterborough if circumstances allow. Also on Saturday, just to add to the melee, BBLRC have their AGM from 12.00 in the bar so please be patient around the boathouse.

From the BBLRC novice Captain: Can you please include a comment that Gledders (the boat) is living on trestles in the ladies side of the boat bay most of this week, having a bit of TLC lavished on her so, getting our doubles out and various singles will not be possible, or maybe very hard in the odd instance. Sorry, but it just has to be done every now and again.

Please check the Coming Up link on our website for details but below is a ready reckoner of the busy few weeks ahead:

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK

There is a very good write up on the BBLRC website from our in-house EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) regarding how to deal with a serious incident like a heart attack on the river, possibly in the worst case, on your own. Diary 22nd Feb. What to do - important, please read.

If you have been, perhaps a second alarm clock might be in order?

Neil.

Lost Nokia Ladies Side, 27/02

Stu lost his mobile over the weekend. If anyone sees an unattended Nokia floating around please give him a shout.

From the boathouse captain: Gledders (the eight, not me) is living on trestles in the ladies side of the boat bay most of this week, having a bit of TLC lavished on her, so getting boats out will be tricky.

Also a big well done to all who took part in Sunday's garden party. Much clearing, lopping, pruning and tea drinking saw everything tidied up a treat. Apparently we are getting several varieties of bamboo up by the flood defence wall. Did you know that:

Morpeth Racer, 24/02

Some say his birthing pool sprang a leak so he was born in a barrel of Byker Bitter. Some say that his capacity to drink would desert him if he ever cut his hair. Some say that his amplifier goes up to 12 and that he can hit one-hundred-and-eighty at 100 paces. All we know is that he's called Geordie!

Click on the pictures above, go on...

Charley Says Do Not Touch Pooh, 23/02

Charley says when pushing off from the hard please make sure that your hand is not resting in any s**t. Meeooww.

Live The Dream, 21/02

The first ever blog entry written and uploaded from within the boathouse walls [you'll always remember what you were doing when you read this - Ed].

So we now have working wireless. Anyone wanting to use it is more than welcome to bring down any wireless enabled laptop, etc. You should note that it is a secure LAN and a WEP key is required when connecting for the first time. If you want to know the key please contact the webmaster (see our contacts page).

Copycats may spring up, but remember we are the original & probably the best!

Map My Run, 21/02

Our statistical correspondent has recently taken a bit of a break from routing and during a running-related surfing session [he beat Dr. French in the triathlon you know - Ed] has found this rather nifty website which will work out how far your regular eight mile run is [about five miles - Ed]. Take a look here. Tip - you can move the map around by dragging.

Also we hear that our launch broke down last Sunday whilst it was being used to officiate in the inaugural novice sculling "time trial". Strange that it had been working faultlessly for the previous 3 hours whilst being driven by a Cygnet but broke down the moment a BB lady got in it. Some sort of electric-blue allergy we suppose?

Jambed Dawes, 20/02

We at the blog were very sad to hear that our own Scores-on-the-Doors Dawes had a bit of an adventure on Saturday night involving fisticuffs, 9 hours in casualty, stitches to his mouth & lip, and to add insult to injury, a pretty hefty cab fare home. All for the crime of being in a group of guys in funny hats.

I'm sure we all wish him the best.

On a positive note, although currently restricted to liquids, he does live with the bar steward...

Captain's Log, 20/02

With the Bull back in one piece, both HoRR eights made it out onto the river on both days this weekend, albeit with a sub here and there. Added to a variety of singles, quads and fours over both days, it made for an encouragingly busy weekends rowing across the squad, from novices to vets. Many thanks to Ali and Alan for their help with trailering the Bull and to Andre for such a (unusually) fast turnaround.

The AGM on Sunday was very well attended, with a fresh batch of volunteers/mugs/talent* voted onto the committed alongside the usual trusted/dusty/emblazered* regulars. Thanks to everyone who found the time to attend. It's very positive that so many take an interest our clubs affairs.

*delete as appropriate.

THIS WEEK:

Note that for the next four weekends, up until the HoRR, the vast majority of the squad will be out in one or other of the racing eights. Consequently the show-up-and-row policy is no longer applicable although I would encourage all non HoRR oarsmen to continue to come down as there is almost an opportunity to do something, particularly later on in the morning once the eights are back and bodies are available for second outings. Thanks to Stuart for continuing to keep the newcomers involved during this tricky period.

BUOYS:

Everyone out on the river this weekend will have noticed that the new upstream buoys are in place. The reasons for them should be quite obvious but if you need a reminder it can be found here http://www.portoflondon.co.uk/notice2mariners/index.cfm/flag/2/id/1276/site/maritime. A hardcopy is also up on the notice board.

LAUNCH DRIVERS

I'm still on the hunt for a volunteer launch driver for the Hammersmith Womens and Junior Head on the afternoon of Sunday 26th Feb. Thanks to Julian for offering to drive at the Hammersmith Head on the 12th March and I shall be in the hot seat for the WHoRR on the 11th. Let me know.

CALENDARS

An exciting [sic.] new feature on the website. The Coming Up link on the homepage now links to my rowing diary which I will endeavor to keep up-to-date. If you go to the preferences at the bottom of that calendar you can see it a day, week or month to a view. If you click on an entry it will open up a dialogue box with a bit more information. This is still experimental so do let me have any feedback and do keep checking as it's likely to change.

COXSWAINS:

Frankly, we need another one. It's great to have Esme on board for specific events and Marj continues to do a fantastic and selfless job across the rest of the squad but with membership on the up we really do need another cox. So if you know anyone, male or female, friend, family or colleague who might be interested, put them in touch. They need not necessarily have any experience but some self-confidence, a sense of adventure and a little less height than average would be useful. Also once the Heads are over, it could be time for a few of the squad to squeeze into the smallest seat and learn the ways of the dark side themselves.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK - from your WSA:

"As was discussed at the AGM, rowing and water safety are very hot topics on the river at present. The way rowers use the river both now and in the future is presently under fluid discussion by authorities and rowing organisations. Even if you never cox or bow steer a boat please take note of announcements about navigation, it helps us as a club to be alert on the river and will form a great foundation to build from into the world of bow steering".

If you have been, it's all about pain management from now on, apparently.

Neil.

Signage, 17/02

A little bird tells us that Patrick (or Gavnpatrick as we know him) is selling a Pinsent/Redgrave signed T shirt on ebay. Only two days left to bid.

Any fans of Google earth might like to take a look at "53 32 18.93 N 1 20 49.5 W". We can't condone it, but perhaps we could do something with the boathouse lawn?

A nice little quote from our own Pretty-Boy Naylor. Aparently he is missing the feeling of odd-shaped balls on a Saturday morning...

"I hate rowing, it's a shit little sport, I don't know what I'm doing. There's no running, no throwing balls and you don't even get to have a group bath afterwards."

...which is surely why most of us do it.

Finally our very own Mr. Dunghill has proved himself a bit of a whizz on the old spreadsheet by coming up with this automatic Bond-o-lator (press F9). THE MOONER WHO THUNDERED ME is our favourite so far, although we did just get THE PUSSY WITH THE FINGERED EYE!

Valentine's Day Peak Performance, 14/02

We at the blog appreciate that not all of us receive both our own Captain's Log (ahem) and the very informative and grammatically immaculate BBLRC Bitz. Whilst always a "reet rivetting reed" the following paragraph did make us sit up:

...these head races [Hammersmith & WEHoRR - Ed] need to be effectively treated as training sessions that will build our fitness for the regatta season. Ideally, we should all be reaching peak performance in June/July...

Head races as training pieces? Peaking in July? Isn't the first regatta of the season on the 22nd April & don't we peak FOR the March heads? This is obviously where we've been going wrong all these years [I'm always bloody knackered by July - Ed]. We hope this late peaking won't apply to the tuna & sweetcorn sandwiches on HoRR day.

Also, we have it on good authority that Lucozade is looking for athletes. As a non-alcoholic beverage we'd recommend not wasting your time. We at the blog particularly like the line "they don't have to be top flight athletes but they do have to be competent convincing rowers" - us to a tee.

Montag News, 13/02

First the good news. The boathouse now has a wireless network and broadband connection to the internet (and we at the blog were the proud recipients of its first email message). We have it on good authority that the installation costs have been donated by a rather dashing/handsome ex-captain. Ongoing costs will be covered by a £1 per session charge. Just drop your pound in the bar till.

As mentioned below Sunday's boat naming ceremony was a great success. The only downside was that Davo remembered to bring his bagpipes, and you can find a video of him playing them on our CIM page. Note that you'll need realplayer and its 3GP extension to play it (it was recorded on a mobile phone we think).

Lastly Captain Pickford doesn't just row boats, he also moves mountains. Take a look at his holiday snaps should you be so inclined.

Captain's Log, 13/02

An 8 and a 4x out in the sun on Saturday with an 8 and 4-, under the watchful eye of Kathryn, on a rather cold and wet Sunday. Not the greatest weather to be celebrating your 116th birthday but celebrate we did including the official naming of our latest single, Cygnet Friends Reunited. The most dedicated made it as far as Ye White Hart and Hawali and are feeling none too sprightly this morning.

THIS WEEK:

Please try to be prompt for outings or early even if you want to squeeze in a cuppa before hand. We should not be taking half an hour to get afloat!

HORR TRAINING:

Excellent turnout for ergs last week but very poor for circuits. Please make every effort to attend one of these sessions, ideally both, especially if you're selected for Aries. Yes the training is hard but so is the race and just because you name is on the list, your bum isn't necessarily in the boat. Indeed, training should be more committed from now on. The same goes for weekend outings, you can't practice in an eight if there are only four of you as it was this weekend. We should have boat eights back next weekend so it would be good to see both crews out together.

CYGNET AGM - SUNDAY 19th FEB, 12.00

It's after outings so no real excuses for not staying on for an hour to vote-in your new committee. Many thanks to all the names who have volunteered for committee positions, all very encouraging. The treasurer says: The 2005 audited account was placed on the website 10th February. Please look at it before the agm 19th Feb, if you have any interest in these figures. The HonTreas will willingly answer questions at that meeting; if there's any complex issue, please contact him beforehand. He will only only bring a few copies to the meeting, rather than the traditional dead forest. If you like your own four pages, do please print them off.

KIT:

If you need kit for the HoRR it's best to be getting your order in soon as it's a very busy time and lead times are fairly long. Stu and Batsey are thinking of getting some stuff so check with them and go for a bulk order to get the discounts.

LAUNCH DRIVERS REQUIRED:

For both the Hammersmith Head (Sunday 12th March) and the Hammersmith Womens and Juniors Head (Sunday 26th Feb). It's our launch, we just need a volunteer to drive it for a few hours from about 13.00. Replies to me please. Obviously HoRR crews need not apply.

BOATHOUSE EXECUTIVE AGM - SUNDAY 19th MARCH, 12.30

There are still some spaces left to fill on the committee that runs the boathouse. Nominations will be going up on the notice board soon.

On the subject of the boathouse, a reminder; if you're rowing out of normal squad hours there is no need to lock the boat shop during your outing but please make sure that you put the keys back in the proper place before you boat. Please don't leave them in the boat shop or take them with you and do make sure that the inner boathouse door is properly shut.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

If the worst should happen and you find yourself swimming, STAY WITH THE BOAT. Even if full of water, it's designed to float, in which case, so will you. We are in the process of arranging another capsize drill and swimming test so you can all have a little practice soon.

Also I was very pleased with the novice quad on Saturday who, on seeing that the turn of the tide was imminent, decided to delay their outing until had actually turned thus avoiding the steering confusion that always occurs on the slack water. Excellent common sense (or risk assessment as it's now known). Good stuff, keep it up.

If you intend too, make sure that you've picked-up the correct blade before you push-off.

Neil.

Friday Friday, 10/02

First of all there's this. Apparently whenever said sperm is found there's always an aroma of Hugo Boss and testosterone lingering in the air and some silver back hairs speckling the shower tray. Local fuzz are investigating.

Also we hear that wireless broadband, the latest addition to our boathouse infrastructure, is being installed today. Once the Gaggia machine is installed there'll be no need to go outside at all. STOP PRESS: they've been and they've gone away again - apparently we have a "fault on the line".

Electra Glide In Blue, 09/02

Well maybe not but some of these will make for fun Friday afternoon viewing.

For those of you lucky enough to be selected to row in a Cygnet 8, here are the weekend horoscopes...

Taurus: with Uranus coming into its brown zenith this weekend all Taureans would be advised not to over estimate their base fitness. Don't be tempted into wild animal watching by a stranger from the north, and if your Aunt B. comes to stay try and resist her matronly charms. For plummy Taureans the number 3 could be significant.

Aries: not a good weekend for those blonde-haired, blue-eyed, fancy-free Arians looking for love. You may find yourself surrounded by many blue-clad soul mates but you'll struggle to make yourself understood through all the drool and illicit muffin crumbs. Resist seeking consolation from a lanky relative of the okapi and instead seek solace with a good hard (bench) pull.

Mystic Smeg, 07/02

We hear on the grapevine that our two eights have now been selected for the HoRR. Not content with a 1st & 2nd boat (as it has been for the last 80 years), our wishy-washy liberal captain has named the crews Aries & Taurus.

Any crew containing Geordie, Bates & Naylor would surely be better named Pisces as they will spend most of the run-up to the race, erm, Pisced.

And Virgo for the other? Nuff said!

Captain's Log, 06/02

(Generated mostly by the Deputy Captain, WSA and the PLA in my absence. Thank you all.)

Again a great variety of rowers came out to play this weekend. Saturday morning saw an (almost) novice eight going out after having completely measured and re-rigged the MAG with the assistance of Pete and Kathryn. While the eight was faffing, a senior coxless four and two doubles took to the water.

On Sunday we had two eights going out, the second of which was made up of Cygnet veterans. We have been told that this eight will be a common feature on Sunday mornings from now on. Our in-house paramedic has been put on standby.

BOATS

We had intended to also reset the riggers and gates of the Bull. However, upon inspection we found this boat to have a broken shoulder in the stern section. We shall have to have this shoulder repaired before it is re-rigged. Please, please, please tell the captaincy if you find a fault in a boat so we can get it fixed, don't just put it away and assume that it's someone else's problem. Broken eights are not good at this point in the season and that's everyone's problem. This coming weekend we intend to measure and inspect a couple of fours, after outings, so please plan to stay on for a bit longer if you can.

THIS WEEK

SUBS, ARA and HEAD OF THE RIVER

I have been told by our Hon Treasurer that subs are trickling rather than flooding in but please keep them coming. Thanks for those of you who have paid your subs and applied to the ARA for membership. Some of you still haven't done these yet and it is essential to get them done NOW if you want to be considered for an eights head crew otherwise you are running the risk that you can't participate in the HoRR, even though you (and we) may want to. No point in doing all that hard training if your hands can't reach the bottom of you pockets!

SAFETY AND NAVIGATION

Loads of stuff going on so pay attention at the back. I shall post these on the notice board as well but please take a look at the attached documents as they all affect our end of the river particularly U2.

NOTICES TO MARINERS

Also from Sunday 12th Feb. The yellow litter cages will be positioned on the Surrey foreshore at Iselworth Ferry Steps (opposite Isleworth Church, just upstream of the Pink House).

YOUR WSA SAYS

With eights head training in full swing and oarsman working hard for the best seat the river can become not just busy but short tempered. It's not uncommon at this time of year to see so called "high performance" crews stamping their authority on the water not just with their blades but verbally with their mouth.

If any crew finds itself in the unfortunate position of having or being victim of a verbal exchange regarding navigational interpretations remember that all boats are or should be identified with registration codes now. Rise above it, row away and take note of registration ID's if needed.

If you have been, finish your homework before you go out to play.

Neil.

Captain's Log, 30/01

Dear all,

In our Captain's absence, a deputy's log instead.

In spite of the conditions, with a notable windchill on both days, a grand number of Cygnet boats went out on the river this weekend. On Saturday, we finally managed to get TWO eights out, with many thanks to Alan for stepping into the cox's seat even though he did not really want to. Sunday saw even more people out on the river, with an eight, two coxless fours (welcome back to the Chairman's invitation four!), two singles and half a double out on the river. It was a sight to behold.

THIS WEEK

SUBS, ARA and HEAD OF THE RIVER

Subs are always due, and even more important if you want to be considered for an eights head crew. If you haven't paid, you're not going to be entered so get paying NOW because the entries have already opened and they fill up quickly.

In addition, if you have not already joined the ARA, but want to be considered for an eights head crew, please do so IMMEDIATELY. I shall be unable to enter anyone who has not joined the ARA, or who has not updated his membership.

If your membership runs out end February, please ensure you renew asap (you can do it, as I have just done it myself!).

If you have joined Cygnet from another club, please ensure that Cygnet is listed as your second club, so that I can enter you in our crews.

BOATS

As mentioned by Neil before, the rigging of our boats need some TLC. We intend to start with the MAG this Saturday, before the outing, so that we can rig and then test it out in the outing. The Bull will be done on Sunday, but after outings. It would be greatly appreciated if you could plan to hang around and help out with the rigging, as the eights are a bit of a hassle otherwise. Geordie has assured me that he'll prepare Aunt Bessie's finest to keep us warm.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK

Please be sensible when the tide is due to turn. If you are already out on the river, check the flow of the river often and keep a good lookout for crews who believe the tide has already turned and adjust your course accordingly. If you've not boated yet, go and have an extra cup of tea and wait till the tide has fully turned. It's a lot less hassle than going out on the river and joining the other crews spreading themselves out all over its width, making the situation even more hazardous than it already is.

If you're planning to, keep your woolly hat on.

Marj.

Full Eight, 26/01

With HoRR selection fast approaching now might be a good time to start exhibiting those quirks and mannerisms which'll make you a shoe-in for your favourite seat.

Those egg-heads at the BBC think this is the truth. Those of us in the know are rather more inclined to believe this.

BBLRC Caught Offside, 26/01

With the World Cup approaching conversation last Saturday turned inevitably to the offside rule and why even [or should that be especially - Ed] Oxbridge-educated Barnes Bridge Ladies can't understand it (even when we get out the cruets).

With that in mind our A&R man has been doing a bit of research. Does this help?

You're in a shoe shop, second in the queue for the till. Behind the shop assistant on the till is a pair of shoes which you have seen and which you must have.

The female shopper in front of you has seen them also and is eyeing them with desire.

Both of you have forgotten your purses.

It would be totally rude to push in front of the first woman if you had no money to pay for the shoes.

The shop assistant remains at the till waiting.

Your friend is trying on another pair of shoes at the back of the shop and sees your dilemma.She prepares to throw her purse to you.

If she does so, you can catch the purse, then walk round the other shopper and buy the shoes.

At a pinch she could throw the purse ahead of the other shopper and, *whilst it is in flight* you could nip around the other shopper, catch the purse and buy the shoes.

Always remembering that until the purse had *actually been thrown* it would be plain wrong to be forward of the other shopper.

What A Treasure, 25/01

From our (honourable) Treasurer. He loves you, that's why he's there...

CASH PAYMENTS TO CYGNET RC
 
As is usual at the end of the year, confusion has arisen over a cash payment
which was either made or not made, directly or through an intermediary, many
months ago.
 
The present Hon Treasurer wishes to reiterate what he believes to be quite
general knowledge, that
 
A] he wishes to avoid cash receipts as far as possible, because disputing them
months after the event is usually unpleasant and wasteful of effort;
 
B] payers can often find someone who will exchange cash for a cheque to Cygnet
RC, so please do so;
 
C] if he receives cash, he tries always to record the transaction by e-message
within a day or two;
 
D] if you don't get such a confirmatory e-message, please wake the Treasurer
up while the transaction is still fresh in each mind.
 
Final thought - if you are in the habit of paying eg restaurant bills,
electricity bills, council tax with a wad of cash and no confirmatory record,
then maybe the cash doesn't matter too much to you. To your rowing club, it
does.
 
Richard.

Ooh Ooh I Bet You're Wondering How I Knew, 24/01

A new year reminder that we have a very comprehensive links page which is a good starting point for a lazy afternoon's rowing-related surfing. It'll be 5pm before you know it. The club's history pages also make a "fascinating" read.

We hear that wireless broadband may be the next addition to the boathouse infrastructure. I am already searching the web for a splash-proof, discrete, anti-misting BBLRC ShowerCam with snake-eye zoom lens. Watch this space.

We also hear that the Treasurer's annual comedy "who is eligible to row in the HoRR" email is imminent. Humourously this normally includes Wally Wheldal and Plum the boathouse cat (and this year may feature a late entry from Aunt Bessie) but it's always a bit light on actual oarsmen. Go on, spoil his fun and pay your sub - £150 for Civs and £213 for Spivs.

Captain's Log, 23/01

Lots of oarsmen again this weekend but once again a frustrating 14 or 15 rather than the magic 16 (ie. two eights). Nevertheless Saturday saw an eight, a coxless 4, and a quad out, while Sunday begat an eight, a coxless 4, a double and a single. Second outings in singles were observed on both days making use of the good conditions, which is very encouraging. Thanks to Mike for running the novice pod on Sunday.

THIS WEEK:

I'm away next weekend and for all of the following week so Marj and Stu are in charge.

SUBS:

Another reminder that they are due and if you'd prefer, the treasurer can facilitate electronic transfers as well as more traditional paper based payments. £150 for CSSC members and £213 for the rest.

AGM - 19th Feb:

As I mentioned last week, the club's officers will be elected and the nominations form is up on the notice board. We're short of a couple of ordinary committee members so why not volunteer rather than be volunteered?

QUINTIN HEAD - Saturday 28th:

We're not entering this event but please be aware that it will be running on Saturday and the river is not closed.

SAFETY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Avoid stopping under or close to bridges and anywhere near the crossing points as it makes already awkward navigation points even more difficult and potentially dangerous. As we often go upstream, be especially careful around Kew Pier/Stone Bridge, a known pinch point and judging by the performance of some crews on Saturday, an accident waiting to happen. Keep a good look out and be prepared to paddle light around the pier and under the bridge.

CROSS TRAINING:

As you doubtless read in the new and exciting "Rowing & regatta" magazine cross training is good, especially on bikes, so with this in mind Mr Leffler has proposed that we have a crack at the London to Brighton cycle ride. Contact Pete if you're interested - p.leffler[at]btinternet[dot]com.

Dear All,

I shall be doing the British Heart Foundation London to Brighton ride on Sunday 18th June once again. Because I did it last year, I have the opportunity to make a priority application for entry and I am allowed to spread this privilege around which means that you can make a priority application too. The ride is always oversubscribed (despite there being 27,000 entries) but a priority entry, providing it is submitted before 1st March, will guarantee you a place. I will be photocopying some forms and putting them up on the notice boards at the Boathouse for you to make your priority entry.If enough people are interested (i.e. more than 2-3) we will enter as team .Cygnet RC*. and if possible we will try and organise some après ride hospitality on the beach at Brighton. BBLRC are also invited to take part whether with their own team or joining in with us.Some Q&A information is attached but please feel to contact me if you need more information.

Cheers (or that should be .Chapeau.)

Peter

If you're planning to, fingers crossed for some snow.

Neil.

Nubile Polynesian Wrestler Throwing, 20/01

Our A&R man doesn't 'arf get about. Is anyone interested?

Your Chance to Play Tribal Games With the BBC. BBC Television is looking for the fittest, boldest male adventurers to compete in 8 of the most challenging competitions in the macho world of tribal sport. If you've got what it takes to race across mountains with indigenous Indians in Mexico, wrestle with fierce Nuba wrestlers in Sudan, compete in traditional stone lifting challenges in Tahiti, or take part in fire throwing contests in the Northern Territories of Australia, this is your chance. If you're over 18, and have a sports skill email hannah.griffiths [at] bbc.co.uk for an application form or write to: Tribal Games, room 3504, BBC White City, 201 Wood Lane, London W12 7TS. Closing date is 3rd February so be quick!

I guess the sports skill requirement might be tricky for us, but we're all good blaggers!

Captain's Log, 16/01

Plenty of activity again this weekend, with a coached VIII out on both days accompanied by a 4-, 2x and 1x on Saturday and a 2- and 2x on Sunday. Good to see a second outing in a quad on Saturday too.

THIS WEEK

MONEY

* 2006 Subs are due gents and as quickly as possible please. £150 for CSSC members and £213 for those with proper jobs. Cheques made payable to Cygnet RC or wads of cash stuffed into envelopes in the Treasurer's pigeon hole asap please. Could you also email him to let him know that it's there.

* The last of the 'petty cash' has been spent on petrol for the launch so I will be rattling a pot under the nose of any coached crews from next weekend. A pound per weekend isn't much now is it? Or you could follow Mike's example and chuck in a fiver, which should keep you going for a while.

KIT

* There are a couple of racing AIOs in stock that the treasurer is keen to see the back of and will take £30 as opposed to the usual £36. Not sure of the sizes but if you're interested see me.

* Remember that you will be expected to have to appropriate kit for racing in the HoRR so now might be the time to be getting together and ordering some kit via our page on the Godfrey website. They get very busy around HORR time so don't leave it too late.

* With so many oarsmen around at the moment wellies are at a premium. Might be time to invest in a pair to guarantee availability.

PLAYAWAY?

We have been offered a wildcard entry into the Stuttgart City Eights on the weekend of the 1st/2nd April. This is the week after the HoRR and the weekend of the University Boat Race. Please let me know by the end of this week if you are interested in going to Germany for this race.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

12th Feb - Cygnets 116th birthday. We will be celebrating this auspicious date in the history of Tideway rowing with a Boat naming ceremony and a few little drinkies after outings that day. All welcome.

19th Feb - AGM. 12.00 noon. Please do your best to attend this meeting, again after outings. It should be reasonably short and includes election of club officers. With any luck the Chairman and ex-captain might be persuaded to ring the bell on account of their good fortune in the recent 300 club draws. I also believe that the final draws of the year will take place after the AGM.

BOAT RIGGING

As well as the course mentioned above, Peter has offered to oversee the re-rigging of the fleet, which hasn't been done for a while and has got a bit ragged. We will start with the VIIIs for obvious reasons and I will require at least six guys to stay after outings one weekend to help out. Hopefully we can just get it done with the guys that usually stay after outings but if not I will have to specify a date sooner rather than later.

SAFETY TIP OFTHE WEEK - From our WSA

"Keep your eyes open on Sunday 22nd of January between 9am and 11am where the Remenham Head will be starting as a two division head race between Barnes Bridge and Putney. Marshalling is between Barnes and Chiswick Bridge and the start is just downstream of Barnes Bridge. The river WILL NOT be closed and along with competitors the race will have a number of launches for marshalling. Stay alert." This should not affect us too much as we will going upstream but there is likely to be a lot of river congestion in front of the boathouse. Beware.

If you have been, no more weddings on HoRR day please.

Neil.

Money Money Money, 12/01

New year, new boats, new heating bills, new insurance premiums, new CSSC payments, new boathouse executive payments, etc.

Yes, dear reader, it's time to dig deep and pay those subs - your boatclub needs you('re money). A bargain at £150 for CSSC members and £213 for those of us with proper jobs (a sports day, I ask you). Cheques to Cygnet Rowing Club should be placed in the treasurer's pigeon hole.

Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that. Norman Vincent Peale.

Captain's Log, 09/01

Welcome back.

A very encouraging start to the New Year with good turnouts for both land training and outings. This weekend saw an eight, a four and a double out, with a coach, on both days despite the distinctly average weather and conditions. Excellent start chaps, keep it up.

This week:

*For January we will be concentrating on improving our base level fitness with some long, slow UT2 work. This will take the form of low rate (18spm) ergs and can also include runs, swims or cycles all of at least 30 minutes duration. Not only will this type of exercise improve your base fitness but is ideal for working off the mince pies too. I'd encourage people to do as much of this sort of work as possible and I know that there is already a small dedicated group erging on Wednesday and Friday as well as on Tuesday nights. Tuesday however, will remain the main erg session and is more valuable insofar as there will be coaching available on that night and even if you can exercise at you own gym please try to make the squad sessions on Tuesdays. As it's a long erg and we only have the 8 machines there will be two start times of 6.30 and 7.30 on Tuesday to avoid congestion. NOTE: Don't forget to stretch after all land and water sessions paying particular attention to the hamstrings.

Wednesday 18th.

Advance notice of a course next Wednesday at Putney Town "Basic Rigging Principles". It's fundamental knowledge that we all should know and most of us don't so I'd encourage all active oarsmen to try an get along to this if possible (after a 30 minute erg perhaps?). For details follow this link http://www.thames-rrc.org/fileadmin/documents/Courses/05SeminarA.pdf.

Safety tip(s) of the week.

1) There is a new map up on the wall of the clubroom (and on the website [safety page - Ed]) which is essential for steersmen and coxswains, and nearly as important for everyone else. Please have a good look at it and ask questions if there is something that you don't understand.

2) At this time of year the river is busy, the stream strong and the conditions often tricky so it's important that you stay switched on. To prevent dangerous situations developing you have to be ready to 'immediately and precisely' carry out instructions from your coxswain or steersman.

If you have been, try to avoid amplifying it.

Neil.

Captain's Log, 02/01

Welcome to 2006 and a Happy New year to you all. I hope that everyone enjoyed the Christmas break and are now raring to get back to rowing and training in order to burn off some festive excess and win some pots. So a quick reminder of what's on offer this week: