The Pork Pie Challenge was devised as a rowing challenge that can be won by any crew that managers to put twenty or so "good" strokes together over 160m on the "Sprint The Houses" downstream Strava segment.​

​

Unlikely Quad Triumphs at Annual Pork Pie Sprint Challenge**

 

In a surprising turn of events, the annual Pork Pie Sprint Challenge saw an unexpected group of victors as the "Unlikely Quad" claimed the top spot. The race, a 160-meter sprint from the Green House to the "End of the Houses," requires participants to record their times on Strava, adding a modern twist to this traditional event.

 

Mr. Lamb, the club secretary, race organiser and one of the triumphant quartet, humorously remarked, "I guess we were just four ordinary guys, but today, we were four extraordinary pies!" His jest captures the lighthearted spirit of the competition held at Doncaster Rowing Club, which has become a beloved fixture in the local sporting calendar.

 

The Unlikely Quad clocked an impressive time of 27 seconds, benefiting from the maximum wind assistance and the strongest possible river flow. These favourable conditions played a crucial role in their victory, leaving last year's formidable 4x girl national schools and head of the river quad unable to close the gap, despite several late attempts! However, they did manage to wrap up the Women and Junior (W) events with their last ditch attempts.

​

In the wake of their victory, Mr. Lamb has pledged to reward his fellow team members—Michael, Blayne, and Paul—with a MBP (Meat-Based Product). "I’ll have to dig deep into my pockets for this one," he joked, hinting at the celebratory feast to come. For those with dietary preferences, Mr. Lamb assures that vegan and vegetarian alternatives are available, ensuring everyone can partake in the festivities.

 

As for past winners, well, as the saying goes, "nobody cares." This year, all eyes were on the Unlikely Quad, whose unexpected triumph has added a new chapter to the Pork Pie Sprint Challenge's storied history.

​

2025 Challenge is now open, can anybody beat the winners of 2024, that frankly no coach would ever put together.

​

​

​

​