HEXHAM rowers braved wintry conditions to take part in the annual Durham Small Boats Head 2km race.

A highlight of the winter racing season in Durham, the race provided an excellent opportunity for crews to compete in smaller boats as they built up their training in preparation for racing on the River Tyne and beyond.

The annual competition is a staple in the Queen Elizabeth High School calendar, and this year was no exception as 68 individual rowers were selected, including 25 Year 9 students making their debuts in the small boats head.

They were joined by competitors from Bradford, Lancaster and Edinburgh.

An influx of newcomers meant QEHS were able to enter various quad crews for the shortest of the races, fully supported by a further 43 more experienced rowers.

As boats were transported to the event, Hexham coaches questioned the conditions as heavy snow continued to fall.

Despite a moderate dusting of snow and windy conditions the next day, temperatures increased.

The event had over 400 crews in four divisions, with new QEHS rowers given a detailed preview and analysis of the course by coach Geoff Higgins.

His tactical nous paid off as all six crews demonstrated the correct start and steering procedures to successfully negotiated Elvet Bridge, reputed to be the narrowest row-through bridge in Europe, with ease.

There was success for the J15 4x+ crew who posted a trophy-winning time of 6m 54.9s.

Ponteland High School’s Anna Styles and her partner also won the event’s WJ16 Division Four race.

All other QEHS crews went on to finish the course in times which ensured they would be considered for entry to the Northern Region Junior Team Trials.

The impressive all-round performances came after a strong autumn season for the rowing club.

Around 80 rowers from Year 9 joined the Learn to Row programme in September with 41 progressing to the racing group.

QEHS hopes to build upon an impressive 2018 which saw rowing club members from Year 9 to sixth form enjoy a multi-medal winning end to the year.

The Northern Region Junior Team Trials was due to take place on February 9, but was postponed due to high winds.