The second round was against Canford II, who beat us by a length and a quarter. Sounds quite good, but in fact Canford sat on the small lead at a low rate, with Monkton rowing bravely at about 37 or more trying to keep up.

Spirits were very low after the Henley result, and bodies were very tired after the gruelling qualifying race the evening before. The tears of tiredness and disappointment were not far from the surface, and almost all the crew just wanted to rest and go home, abandoning the other event we had entered. The coach delayed a decision for a while, but did not try to persuade the crew to carry on to the afternoon event because it was quite clear that hearts were not in it. We packed up quickly and came back home.

It's always difficult to know whether to enter an event the day after qualifiers, and our experience this year should not be be taken as a mistake. It just didn't work out this time.

Henley next week - viewed from the Enclosure rather than the course. There will be lots to do; races to watch; inspiration to be gained; boats to inspect; people to meet and talk to; supporters and parents to thank for their encouragement during the year.

Coach : J M Bewick