The first head race of the year took place in Inverness on 16 and 17 February. St Andrew Boat Club headed to the Inverness 8s & and Scottish Student’s Head with two full trailers, packed with boats, riggers, seats, trestles and a staggering 30 sweep blades and 56 sculling blades.

In brisk conditions, made bearable by the warm hospitality of Inverness Rowing Club and strong SABC support from the bank, the club secured a brilliant 11 wins across two days of racing. Former St Andrew Boat Club rowers, now competing for their universities, also noted a number of successes.