Trialling is the process by which the squad of the most talented and determined oarswomen and coxes of the university are selected for the three crews (Blue Boat, Blondie and Lightweights) that compete each Easter in the Henley Boat Races and represent Cambridge on a national level.

A six month training plan beginning in mid September, set by the Head Coach, ensures that all athletes are at the peak of physical fitness on race day, incorporating water sessions both in Cambridge on the Cam and Ely on the Great Ouse, and land based sessions at the University’s Goldie Boathouse and Fenner’s Gym each week. Athletes receive coaching at all sessions and are provided with feedback as to their progress at various points in the year.

In addition to the regular weekly sessions CUWBC races at events in Cambridge and further afield throughout the year, including the Fours and Eights Head of the River Races and the BUCS Regatta (British Universities).

Each year in December a race is held between CUWBC crews, allowing an important benchmark for development towards the Henley Boat Races to be taken by the coaches. This so-called ‘Trial VIIIs’ race usually marks the end of the first half of training, to be resumed in the New Year at a winter training camp, which in recent years has been held in Soustons, France.

Selection is carried out by the Head Coach throughout the trialling period, who takes into account all available information about an athlete; from their mentality to their raw strength. By late February, the squad is reduced to three crews and a number of spares, who then train through to the Henley Boat Races and beyond.

The entire squad is encouraged to lead their lives to maximise their potential, including their attitude towards training and the challenges they will face. Throughout the year athletes are encouraged to eat healthily and effectively for their training, allowing those who are capable of being eligible for the Lightweight crew to do so safely and sensibly (see Lightweights for more information).

If you are considering trialling, a brilliant way to start is by taking part in the annual Summer Development Squad, running over four weeks in July. This allows you to benefit from university level coaching and improve your fitness in preparation for the year ahead, without necessarily committing to the trialling process itself (see Development Squad for more information).

If you are unable to take part in Dev Squad, contact the President Izzi at president@cuwbc.org or the Head Coach Martyn at martyn@cuwbc.org, who will gladly answer any questions you might have and help you tailor your own training in order to reach your full potential in the trialling year.