Leander Club at the Women’s Eights Head of the River Race 2026
Leander Club continued an extraordinary era of dominance on the Tideway, securing their 10th consecutive victory at the Women’s Eights Head – an entire decade at the top of the sport.
Leading the charge, Leander’s first eight produced a standout row to take the overall victory in a time of 18:18.4, securing both the Headship and the Club Pennant. The crew blended experience and emerging talent, with a strong contingent of Caversham-based GB athletes alongside club rowers. Coxed by Jack Tottem, the boat was expertly guided through the Championship Course.
At stroke, Lizzie Witt set the rhythm for a composed and powerful performance, while Cam Nyland brought sculling precision to the 7 seat. The engine room was driven by the strength of Lauren Irwin in 6 and Katherine George in 5, laying down the platform for a relentless pace. The crew was rounded out by Juliette Perry in the bow seat, contributing to a technically sharp and cohesive row from start to finish.
Backing up the headline performance, Leander’s second eight secured an impressive 5th place overall (18:41.6). Coxed by George Farthing and stroked by Olivia Caesar, the crew represented a balanced combination of Bridge Challenge Plate and Wargrave athletes. Their result underlined the club’s depth, holding their own among top-tier opposition.
Completing an exceptional day for the club, Leander’s third eight finished 10th overall (18:52.4), ensuring three crews in the top ten. The boat featured GB sculler Sarah McKay, fresh from a silver medal performance in the quad at this year’s World Championships, adding international class to an already strong lineup.
Across all three crews, Leander Club demonstrated not only speed at the very top end but also remarkable squad depth – a program that has now set the standard for a full decade on the Tideway.
