Coleraine Academical Institution Boat Club was the scene for a terrific days training, fun and friendship between the three Ulster rowing schools on Saturday 29th May.  Methodist College Belfast and Royal Belfast Academical Institution both made the journey north to attend the inaugural Ulster Schools Training day.

The River Bann, on which CAIBC is proudly built, is not only one of the most picturesque rivers in the country, but it is also undoubtedly one of its best rowing training venues as well.  With over 7 miles of straight, wide water it enables the coaches to plan long challenging outings without the need to continually stop and turn their crews as they do on many other rivers.  The rain that fell did little to dampen spirits as the water was flat calm, perfect for rowing.
RBAIs Senior VIII came to train alongside CAIs J16 VIII and both schools crews benefited from the long, tough water sessions.

MCBs J15s came to train along with CAIs J15s, both in individual school club crews and in inter school club crews.  The latter gave the boys of both clubs the chance to get to know each other and each other’s distinctive rowing styles.  The day ended with a thrilling race between three inter-club VIIIs, organised, marshalled and umpired by CAIBC coach Ross Cochrane.  He rose to the not inconsiderable challenge of lining the three young crews up in a running start but also in keeping them apart during the race from The Old Bridge to the Boat House.

The day was rounded of in style with a BBQ, ably cooked by Dr Hull, Master in Charge of Rowing at CAI.  Despite the inclement weather he manned the BBQ for hours, ensuring that all the hungry oarsmen had food aplenty when they finished their training. This was massively appreciated by all who were present – oarsmen, coaches, parents and spectators alike.

On behalf of CAI we would like to re-iterate our thanks to Dr Hull, Ross Cochrane, Charlie McMullan and all the other CAIBC coaches, for organising such a fine day.    We would also like to thank the coaches and oarsmen of RBAI and MCB for attending, and the parents who provided food.  I know all who were present are already looking forward to the next time the Ulster rowing schools can get together again!