WITH a strong squad of 12 rowers, Budehaven set off for Truro to compete against the highest ever number of entries in this Cornwall schools rowing event.

The layout of the event is quite scary, especially to new rowers, with 12 rowing machines lined up facing a screen to display the boats as the students race.

The first Budehaven race was the three-minute year 8 girls’ race. The strong team of Ellie Gregory, Charlotte Gamble, Heather Harkness and Mia Chalkely all rowed fantastically well at their first event, finishing in 3rd with a fantastic bronze medal for Ellie, 5th, 14th and 15th respectively.

The next entries were Budehaven’s strong year 10 rowers, who all had to row for five minutes.

The boys started off the challenge and were represented by Alex Hallett, Charlie Barnett and Sam Green, all experienced rowers.

The boys rowed with excellent technique and power throughout the first heat and at the end of the race.

Two boys had rowed consistently under 1min 50 secs for 500m and were looking strong contenders for medals.

After the next two heats, the school achieved its first gold and silver medals of the day, with Sam rowing 1444m and Charlie rowing 1426m, Alex finishing 15th.

The girls rowed next. Lily Parker, Chloe Rookes, Kaya Spate and Maddie Weston, who compete regularly for Bude Gig Club, all gave 100%, demonstrating excellent endurance and technique throughout.

At the end of all heats, Maddie and Lily had rowed so well that Maddie achieved the gold medal rowing 1249m and Lily a silver rowing 1229m, another two wins for Budehaven!

Chloe finished in 9th and Kaya in 19th.

Next, but definitely not least, was Budehaven’s powerhouse of a rower, Chae Jenkins, year 11.

Despite not feeling 100%, Chae demonstrated a high level of both mental and physical toughness, pulling hard throughout his 6-minute race, finishing in the silver medal position with a row of 1675m.

It was a fantastic medal haul for Budehaven rowers, the best ever at this competition.

Teacher Mel Bardsley said: “They are a lovely group of students to spend time with and to work with.

“The next event is in March when we compete in the South West indoor rowing competition.

“If any students want to join us for training, both fitness and rowing, sessions run on a Friday lunchtime up at the gym.”