Enniskillen Royal Boat Club enjoyed their first competitive action of the new year when they competed in the 5k event on the old Newry Canal on January 21.

Opposition came from clubs in Connacht, Ulster and Leinster.

The ERBC Senior rowers stayed at home, but over 70 Juniors from 13-16 years old took part – some for the first race of their rowing careers.

The weather stayed fine and four wins were recorded.

These were of course noteworthy, but the real information for coaches was gained from how the other crews performed under pressure.

So-called ‘losers’ actually learn much from that experience, and the season ahead will reveal who has learned the most.

The Junior 16 girls eight of Annabelle Kingston, Rachael Cathcart, Rhea McCartin-McCloskey, Zara Welsh, Eva Johnston Ruby Hamill, Evie McGarry, Hannah Armstrong and cox Abby Wilson put down a marker for the season by beating Methodist College, Newry and Coleraine, and a few boys’ crews as well.

Rivalry will be renewed on the Lagan in a few weeks’ time.

The girls’ Junior 15 quad had a convincing win over Methodist College and Dublin Commercial – this is an interesting young combination who row without fear but with much finesse.

Isabella Wright, Natalie Turner, Tori Davis, Caitlin Kelly and cox Abby Wilson were on board.

The boys’ Junior 16 eight are composed mainly from last year’s successful J14 group and they continue to show form and went fast enough to come second overall, which included beating some adult crews.

Evan Donaghy, Hugo McChesney, George Kernoghan, Owen Kelly, William Bogle, Ryan Topping, Austin Cassidy, Luke Bailey and cox Eva Johnston (a versatile athlete who can steer and row) were the members of this crew.

To round off a successful day, Bruno Favro-Maguire and Harley Shepherd won the Junior 16 double sculls from Dublin and Portadown crews with a gutsy row which reflected how they train on the Erne- with purpose!