'Oarsome' performance as duo take rowing gold

A pair of students of King’s Worcester powered their way to becoming British under-18 rowing champions.

Sixth formers Alice Baker, 17, and Georgie Thorp, 18, earned the title in the British Rowing Championships at the National Watersports Centre in Nottingham.

They competed against seven pairs from around the country from major rowing clubs and leading rowing schools.

In the final they competed against leading crews from Aberdeen Schools Rowing Association and Marlow Rowing Club.

After competing on what was one of the hottest days of the year, the girls’ hard work and determination paid off as they secured the gold position.

They were coached by Will Bird.

Georgie said: “It’s been a challenging year. With Covid it’s been really difficult putting in the necessary training.

“It was our last race together as a pair, as I’m heading off to university in September, but all the hard work and training was really worth it and finally paid off.”

Alice, who also won silver in the World Indoor Rowing Championship earlier this year, added: “We couldn’t have done it without Will, our coach.

“This win is for the three of us. Will put in endless time to help us improve our form and was instrumental in getting us to this competition.”

Mr Bird said: “I’m so immensely proud of the girls. They controlled the race from start to finish.

“They not only had a strong start but continued to follow this through the race right to their strong finish at the end.

“They are incredibly talented and committed sportswomen who serve to inspire many younger rowers for years to come.”

Due to Covid the girls were denied a place on the Great Britain Women’s team when Great Britain withdrew their participation in the World Rowing Junior Championship.

Rowers Alice Baker and Georgie Thorp with coach Will Bird