Pauline Rayner, celebrating her 60th anniversary

The 2014 Women’s Eights Head of the River Race is a particularly special one for Thames Rowing Club, as it marks the 60th anniversary of Pauline Rayner’s first appearance at WEHORR. Pauline first took part in the race when it was just over 2 miles long – as opposed to 4 1/4 miles today – and there were only eight crews competing. On 15 March 2014, she will race in a Masters F composite with friends from other London clubs, going off 84th out of almost 300 boats.

Pauline’s rowing career has seen her race not just for Thames but also her country. Her trophy cabinet is packed with pots and medals from around the world and she continues to regularly win pennants and prizes from head races and regattas in the UK and overseas.

She was the first female chairman of Thames RC, and continues to play a key role in the running of the club – not least by the regular baking of flapjacks for hungry rowers, and keeping the club tidy! For all her clubmates Pauline is a true inspiration, and we look forward to cheering her and her crew on during this very special race in just over a week’s time.