Although the weather forecast was dire, a brave group of CRC rowers headed to Geelong on the AFL Grand Final Parade Day (some of us dressed in club colours) to do what we love best.

The floodwaters on the Barwon River had receded enough just in time for the regatta to go ahead, and we carried our boats over the cracking earth, ready for the 5km row to the start line.

First up was Mario and Jacqui, in their first race together in the masters mixed double event. Despite the substantial time handicap from other crews in the event, this combination completed the 4500m course in a super fast time of 17:45 to take out the event!

Next up was our men masters double, also a new combination of Dave and Walter who had a great row, taking out second place in their event.

Finally, our women's masters eight rowed as fast as they could to beat the rain with some dark storm clouds brewing, however the Weather Gods had a different idea and they rowed a very soggy (and fast) race, achieving the fastest time in their event! Due to age prognostics and handicaps this meant they were awarded second place .  What a great start to the season. 

After a very wet afternoon of rowing, the team celebrated at Corio Bay Rowing Club's Oktoberfest celebrations.

Well done to everyone on an awesome day of rowing!