BETlush '06 Update

There have been tears, tantrums and tribulations within the fours head crews over the last few weeks and BETlush has been watching with interest. Wallets at the ready for the latest odds...

The Blokes

Brett
A disappointing result at UT head may have knocked the quad’s confidence and with it the confidence of the punters. Some blame the foreigner in the bows while others suspect that stroke just isn’t eating enough. Much to do before the big day with odds lengthening to 19-2

Brownsword
The big men have shown that their momentum can certainly get the boat shifting but many worry that the bowman’s ‘Bonnie and Clyde’ steering could lose them seconds on the day. Sickness in the stern has set back their last few days training but they are looking to shape up for a strong row next week. Moving up as favourites at 6-1.

Sid
At times this five-some seemed to be on the brink of self destructing with hand bags poised and ready for swinging. Injury and illness have dogged the crew over the last two weeks and most are holding back to see what form they are in nearer the day of the race, if indeed they make it to the start line. A reserved 17-1

The Burds

Welsh Boat
Power is nothing without control but these girls seem to have plenty of both. An unfortunate set back at UT head that left them off the podium has only helped to fire up the crew to perform at the main event. But will they have the stamina to keep the speed going through to the finish? Have they done enough to keep Farn and CoB at bay? Still worth a flutter at 13-2.

Farn
Putting the grrr in eagerness these four have shown true commitment to their training and are looking tidy as a result. Bow is said to be overcoming her fear of steering the course by practicing each evening with a map of the tideway and a shoe screwed onto a plank. With less weight to carry and a higher starting position they could just pip the coxed boats. An optimistic 7-1.

City Of Bristol
Rumour on the docks is that these plucky young ladies are the ones to watch. A recent head to head with the mighty Welshboat left little between them and some long distance ergs will help to make sure they can push through the pain barrier at Hamersmith. However the question to ask is: does size matter? Holding firm at 17-2.

Windfall
Choosing to train at different times has helped to maintain the mystique of this crew. The boat has a strong record but are the crew able to fill the shoes of last year’s victors? They are starting to show some useful rhythm but are left with everything to prove. One for the chancers at 19-1.