I have been asked to write a message as President of the club so with some random thoughts here goes.
Firstly a thank you to Tom Courtney for organising the early morning parades that go backwards and forwards past my humble timber hut fortunately graced by a Molesey and Remenham flag. I am sorry that for these rowpasts I am frequently still in my jammies!
Watching crews so much does give you an insight into the amount people have to train nowadays; I see crews that are running well, crews that are improving outing by outing (in particular the “Giants”).
I remember watching a few weeks ago Kieron West and then Simon Fieldhouse training themselves to a virtual standstill for the Sculling trials, real commitment on the river. I do tend to see it all.
I never realised when buying the plot and then the saga of building the house how enjoyable it is to be here. I don’t even mind handing out a cold beer to the coaches who have stopped by and requested one. I want to thank ALL the coaches for the unending hours they put in on the river whatever the weather and on a personal note since the Coaches Charter I believe all of them are more considerate and aware of other river users and owners though sometimes it is not easy with the behaviour of others!
When I first joined Molesey (yes I confess I did first row for a blue & white club at Putney) I was amazed by the family atmosphere of the club something despite our size and successes we MUST MAINTAIN. So lets make SUNDAY June 15th The Presidents Henley Fund Raising Party a family day with a great atmosphere for all our athletes and club supporters.
Talking of families there have been a few additions to the Molesey family - Clare, Sam,Gina (any day now) and soon to be Tessa (If I have left any new mother out - sorry!) But well done all of you!
Doug who was so closely involved in Tessa’s good news will make the happy result the first Junior’s junior - a salutary note to the evergreen (almost) junior coaches as to how long they have been doing this.
Another Junior Stuart Elkes (the first juniors Captain) has just come back unscathed from a tour of duty in Afghanistan as a Marine. Having got his coveted Green Beret he has been out there literally on the front line defending himself, his comrades and for our Country. As he may do another tour there if ever the club needed to offer a collective prayer for his safety this is now. We wish him all the luck, skill & judgement needed to come back safely.
Let us all hope that this year of transition for our new coaches brings early success for the club but also even more comradeship to all club members.
Finally Lets “outsupport” all our fellow founding clubs cheering on our competitors from the lawns of Remenham Club at Henley Regatta as well as the other Regattas.
Jonty Steel
President MBC
