Lakeland Rowing Club has announced that it has had to cancel its revival of the historic Derwentwater Head, scheduled for this Saturday (7 March).
The event, which had an entry of 106 crews from top rowing clubs, schools and universities all over the UK, was called off due to a forecast of gusty winds, which would make the lake too choppy and unsafe for the narrow racing boats.
Event coordinator David Thomas said: “This decision was based on an assessment of various weather forecasts. They indicate increasing wind speeds during the Division 1 race, which might put competitors and equipment as risk. These conditions are expected to continue to deteriorate during the afternoon, making racing for Division 2 impossible.”
Lakeland Rowing Club would like to thank the local community, including its headline sponsor, KE Adventure Travel, and other sponsors – Cumberland Building Society, Saint & Co accountants, Honister Slate Mine, Inovica.com, Carvetti Coffee Roasters and Caterite – for their tremendous support.
The club is also extremely grateful for all the assistance it has received from other organisations, including its landlord the National Trust, the Keswick Launch Company, Keswick Lions, Derwent Water Marina, the town council, Keswick Rugby Club, Allerdale Borough Council and the Theatre by the Lake.
Mr Thomas added: “Naturally, we’re very disappointed to have to cancel the first major rowing event on Derwentwater in 150 years. However, all is not lost, as we have already booked our date on the British Rowing calendar for 2021.
“All being well, the first Derwentwater Head of the modern era will take place on Saturday 6 March next year, and we’re very much hoping that all the crews who entered this year will come and enjoy some spectacular racing then.”
