CHRIS Thompson was first home in the Jersey Rowing Club’s penultimate race of the season, which saw competitors race from St Helier to La Rocque and back for the 16km handicapped contest.
The gruelling route proved a stern test for crews’ navigation skills and endurance.
Thompson said: “It was only my second race of the season, and I’m still fairly new to racing in the single, both on the river and at sea.
“The race began in calm waters, which played to my strengths, allowing me to draw on my river experience and start hunting down those who had started ahead of me.
“As the race progressed, the wind picked up and brought more typical coastal conditions – something I’m still learning to handle. Fortunately, I managed to hold on and cross the line first.
“Racing over a longer distance in challenging conditions was a great experience, especially since I’m used to 2k river races or beach sprints.
“The navigation aspect was another new challenge for me, but this race has filled me with confidence for my winter training, as I’ll be back in Jersey full-time with plenty of sessions to improve ahead of next year.
The second boat to finish was men’s doubles BDO Let it Row Josh Le Lere and Gary Briggs, 12 seconds ahead of Paul Coutanche and Till Andreesen.
Briggs said: “After racing at the World Championships in Genoa earlier this month, it was nice to return to familiar waters, although it’s only the second time we’ve done this race route.
“As ever, the strong local tides played a part, making the 15.7km row feel a lot longer, despite the mostly calm conditions.
“We’ve only got the race around Jersey left for the season now, so fingers crossed the weather lets that go ahead.”
The Around Jersey Race is set to take place tomorrow.
