Rowing rookies from some of Bristol’s biggest firms pulled together in Bristol Harbour this weekend for the 2013 Corporate Row event.
The event is run by a team of committed volunteers from the City of Bristol Rowing Club, to provide competitors with a great opportunity to try rowing whilst raising money for the club. This year’s sponsors were Colliers International who entered a team captained by Ben Jones.
He said: “Colliers International has come on board this year to support a great Bristol event and a brilliant team-building opportunity.”
Competitors from four leading Bristol firms enjoyed an excellent days racing, buoyed by some excellent weather although the cross wind made for some challenging racing conditions.
Ben said: “Further spice was added by a broken rudder, a few broken footplates and several crabs (when an oar gets stuck in the flow).
“All a very good indication of the intensity and commitment shown by the four crews. The racing was committed but in excellent spirit and all the crews bonded over some bacon butties and a cider or two laid on by the City of Bristol Rowing Club.”
The event winners were Freelance Media, the Environment Agency came second, Colliers were third and ASSystem were fourth.
The event is a great way to sample rowing with several competitors adding their names to the rowing club waiting list on the day.
The four crews had little or no rowing experience just a month ago when they signed up to an intensive training program of twice weekly training sessions to prepare them for the big day.
Ben said: “The harbour is the centre of the City and it was a privilege for Colliers to be involved in such a successful event at the very heart of what makes Bristol such a great place to work and play. We hope that the funds raised go a long way towards improvements at the club’s boathouse in the Albion Dockyard.”
A focal point for the city, the highly successful and competitive club has been operating for over 60 years and runs a number of squads including junior novice, mens, womens and veterans.
However the boathouse is not up to scratch and very much needs investment in order to improve the facilities for members and attract other clubs to regattas.
