Inverness Rowing Club were represented at the Aberdeen Eights Head on the River Dee last Saturday by two new crew formations, both using the recently acquired (but as yet unnamed) club "8".

In the first division the women's crew had first taste of the changeable conditions. They put in a spirited performance to complete the 3000m course in 12minutes 56 seconds.

In the second division, the men's crew rowed through a blustery headwind in a smooth and relaxed fashion to achieve a very respectable time of 12minutes 15seconds, a time which suggests that a win can not be far away for the newly formed line-up.

Special mention must go to stalwart Coxswain Thomas Prag who expertly steered and encouraged both crews. He was "on the water" for almost 3 hours! Highlight of his day in the cold was the ceremonial hip flask making it's way bow-ward as the snow began to fall shortly after reaching the finish line for the second time.

Both crews seemed satisfied with their placings and performances. However, they hope to build on the experience and plan to have a slightly more aggresive row this coming Saturday when Inverness Rowing Club hosts arguably Scotland's best head race....... The 4500m "Caberfeidh Motors Inverness Eights and Small Boats Head"

John Mckenzie, Managing Director of event sponsor Caberfeidh Motors, said - "I'm delighted to support this growing sport which shares the same attributes as our cars - power with precision".

Spectators are welcome to come and witness the tremendous spectacle of top Scottish crews racing. Over 90 entries have been accepted. There will be two Divisions (races) the first starting at 12:00noon and the second at 2:30pm.

The Caledonian Canal is now regularly used by Scottish International crews for training and is acknowledged by such as Peter Haining, Scotland's World Champion sculler, as the best in Scotland for rowing.
The Boathouse is located two hundred metres beyond the Jacobite Cruises Office on the Torvean golf course side of the canal.