Coach Woodman Visits the Henley

​2020 marked the 40th anniversary of the 1980 Olympic Eight and an appropriate time for a reunion. SRA's Tom Woodman was a member of the 1980 Olympic eight, and his crew made plans to gather at the Henley Royal Regatta for a “row over” to row the course during a break in racing. When Covid hit in 2020, plans changed. But after a 2 year delay, Tom and team made it to the Henley reunion this year! 

The Henley Royal Regatta dates back almost 200 years, and they firmly hold to tradition. High on the list of British social events, formal attire is required to enter the Stewards Enclosure viewing area. Racing is a single elimination match on a course slightly longer than 2 kilometers.

Woodman’s boat was sidelined from Olympic competition when the U.S. and other countries boycotted the 1980 Olympics in Moscow. Tom notes that his crew is often remembered for what they weren't able to do. However, his team defines their legacy with their ample accomplishments. Evidence of their success is visible at the National Team Training Center in Princeton; CRI in Boston; Newport Aquatic Center in California; Sammamish Rowing Association; and even facilities in New Zealand and Australia. 

Tom shares the reunion was a success and a time to celebrate. After the Henley, a couple of Woodman's boat mates traveled to Lucerne, Switzerland where they also raced in 1980. The Rotsee course there is the best rowing course in the world, and they were able to watch World Rowing Cup III on a beautiful summer weekend before heading their separate ways.