Cantabrigian Rowing Club juniors get expert lesson from Cambridge University Women's Boat Club squad

Light Blues president provides tips of the trade

Abigail Parker has led a group of Cambridge University Women’s Boat Club members in passing on their experience to Cantabrigian Rowing Club juniors.

The Light Blues president for the 2019 Women’s Boat Race was joined by vice-president Emma Andrews and heavyweight squad team-mates Laura Foster and Anna Harrison in passing on their knowledge to the club’s youngsters.

Parker was approached by Cantabs’ captain Ellie Darlington about providing rowing expertise and knowledge.

“It was fun for all of us to speak to the juniors and answer their questions about rowing at university,” said the Emmanuel College student.

“Then they got on the ergs and we led them through a few drills and gave them individual pointers based on what we noticed about their technique.

“We also led them through some stretching, teaching them a bit about what we do to warm up for rowing and giving them ideas of ways to stretch the various muscles that can get tight as you row.

“I hope the ideas we gave them will help in some small way in their training this season. It was really fun to speak to the juniors and be reminded of the mindset of beginners.

“It’s exciting how far these young athletes can go.”

She added: “We’re always happy to support junior rowing because it’s where so many of us got our start in the sport.”