Rowing: Marlow storm home

THE WOMEN'S Head of the River Race, held on the Tideway in London on Saturday, was won by half of the women's national squad racing as Marlow Rowing Club. The other half finished second.

Under their chief coach, Mike Spracklen, the British women have moved up a gear. Mostly this is due to Sprack-len's drive and skills, although he has been blessed with a group of women who are big, strong and obstinate enough to win at the highest level.

Marlow had the edge with Dot Blackie at seven, behind her silver medal pairs partner Cath Bishop at stroke and with the single sculler Guin Batten at six. They were 39 seconds ahead of Tideway Scullers School, the first genuine club home.

Behind them gaps narrowed with Belvoir, the first of 17 foreign clubs, finishing in fourth place in 19min 18sec. Cambridge University Women's Boat Club won both the Senior 2 and Senior 3.