At 7.45am Saturday 9 March, the school gathered at Johnson Oval to make their way to the Sydney International Regatta Centre for the annual AAGPS Head of the River Rowing Regatta.

At an emotional Rowers’ send-off assembly on Friday where the Rowing Coach Simon Pennington gave a stirring address, and Year 12 student Sam Evans (12/JN) film sent chills through every person in Centenary Hall, all rowing crews were saluted by their peers and wished the best of luck for the day to follow. Spirits were high as the Head of Pastoral Care Mr Bob Meakin, Head of Middle Years Mr Jeff Snare and  Head of Co-Curricular Mr Paul Bourke joined forces to coordinate the transport for nearly a 1000 Newington boys safely to Penrith Lakes.

The crowd was vocal in support and our rowing crew performed strongly. With mounting pressure to make history 150, many of the crews broke best times. The College achieved the best results in the Fours rowing crews for near 30 years with the 1st IV who rowed a very gutsy race finishing in third place. The 3rd IV gave an outstanding performance–the best of the season–coming home with a 4th place and the 4th IV gained a podium 2nd place in their race. We have struggled for depth in the Year 10 VIII’s, but last Saturday, four crews put in season best performances. The 3rd VIII place a very pleasing third. Unfortunately, the 2nd VIII got a slow start and never really recovered, finishing in 6th place. The 1st VIII raced a strong first 1000m, however were unable to maintain it. In what was the most competitive finish in several decades, there were six crews within two lengths of each other at the finish line. The 1st VIII finished a narrow 6th place.

The Head of the River 2013 was won by Shore school followed by St Joseph’s College and The King’s School.

Overall, it was a brilliant day out. The boys showed immense school spirit cheering themselves hoarse until the final stroke of the last race.