RGU Archives - Aberdeen Voice

Work Begins On £16m Student Accommodation Complex

Apr 282017

With thanks to Ross Anderson, Senior Account Manager, Citrus:Mix

Construction work has begun on a £16 million student accommodation development in Aberdeen.
Focused on sustainability and technology this next generation of student accommodation will meet the needs of the newest university generation.

The development, is located on the former tyre depot at the corner of Willowbank Road and Hardgate, will serve both Robert Gordon University (RGU) and the University of Aberdeen, benefiting from good public transport links and close proximity to the city centre.

Carlisle-based Northern Developments has started work on a 222 en-suite student bedroom scheme which received planning consent in 2016.

Northern Developments has delivered more than 1,000 student beds across the North of England and bring 32 years’ experience in design and build delivery. This experience is reflected in the focus on sustainability of the building and ensuring that the experience of the students living in it will be of the highest quality.

Aberdeenshire sub-contractor Andrew Cowie Ltd has started groundworks on the site and the project will be complete in the summer of 2018 for September arrivals.

Eddie Ward, commercial manager for Northern Developments, said:

“We are very pleased to have started work on the Willowbank Road site and look forward to delivering this exciting development.

“It will meet the demands of modern student living in every respect and will be very appealing to the millennial generation who quite rightly expect high standards and the latest technology to suit their technological and educational needs.

“As a business we strive to use a local supply chain to both deliver the best in class development but to also support a local economy such as that in Aberdeen.”

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University Of Aberdeen Triumphs At 22nd Boat Race

Aberdeen City, Featured, Sport No Responses »

Mar 102017

With thanks to Eoin Smith, Senior Account Executive, Tricker PR.

The University of Aberdeen rowed to victory on Saturday (March 4) at the 22nd annual Aberdeen Boat Race, which is sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management.
Breaking rival Robert Gordon University’s five-year winning streak, the University of Aberdeen triumphed in a time of 7 minutes 03.8 seconds, winning by 4 lengths.

The Robert Gordon University crew followed close behind, with a time of 7 minutes 16.3 seconds.

The University of Aberdeen also celebrated success in the alumni and second crew races – marking the first ever clean sweep in the event’s history.

Hundreds of spectators braved the weather to line the banks of the city’s River Dee to cheer on the teams as the old opponents battled it out on the river. Due to water levels, the 3.5km course was shortened by 300m.

Fiona Bell (21), president of Aberdeen University Boat Club, said,

“It feels amazing to have brought the Aberdeen Boat Race trophy back to the University of Aberdeen. I think we’re all still in shock a little; we set out to break RGU’s five-year hold over the title and we did it! I’m incredibly proud of my team and their performance today. We’ve been training hard in daylight and darkness, so it’s brilliant that all our hard work has paid off.

“Erin and the RGU crew were formidable opponents, and made things very difficult for us out on the water. It was a fantastic race to row in, and I hope those watching from the banks enjoyed it too. I’d also like to thank Aberdeen Asset Management for their continued support – without their backing the Aberdeen Boat Race couldn’t happen.”

Erin Wyness (20), president of Aberdeen University Boat Club, added,

“Congratulations to all of the University of Aberdeen crew on their win today. It was a hard race with both crews on form beforehand, so it would have been hard to call before we set off. Even though we didn’t win this year, I’m still very proud of all the effort the crew has put in over the last few months, and it doesn’t take away from our five-year streak. We’ll be back next year!

“The whole day has been brilliant both for the rowers and spectators on the shore – from the alumni and second crew races right up until the title race – and I’d like to thank Aberdeen Asset Management for their amazing continued support of this historic event.”

The alumni boat race was won by the University of Aberdeen in a time of 8 minutes 02.5 seconds. The universities’ second crew boat race was also won by the University of Aberdeen in a time of 2 minutes 36.6 seconds. Original 106fm clinched the media challenge title in a time of 1 minute 30.1 seconds over a 300m course.

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of sponsor Aberdeen Asset Management, commented,

“On behalf of all at Aberdeen Asset Management, I would like to congratulate the winning crew from the University of Aberdeen. I would also like to recognise the effort of the Robert Gordon University Boat Club rowers, who put in a sterling effort on the water. Both teams should be rightfully proud of their achievements today.

“The university experience is about more than classroom learning, and the boat clubs are a real testament to that. Being founded in Aberdeen, we are very proud to continue to support the Aberdeen Boat Race in what is our 17th year.”

Follow the Aberdeen Boat Race on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aamboatrace, on Twitter @2017boatrace or Instagram @aamboatrace

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Crews Unveiled For 22nd Aberdeen Boat Race

Aberdeen City, Sport No Responses »

Mar 022017

With thanks to Eoin Smith, Senior Account Executive, Tricker PR.

After months of secrecy and planning, the final crews are announced on Tuesday, 21 February for the 22nd annual Aberdeen Boat Race. The 18 successful students have travelled from around the world to study at the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University – from A Coruña in Spain to Perth in Australia.

They will come together this Saturday, March 4, for the challenging 3.5km race along the River Dee, which is sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management.

Fiona Bell, president of Aberdeen University Boat Club (AUBC), and Robert Gordon University Boat Club (RGU) president Erin Wyness have handpicked their teams after monitoring the rowers’ technical skill and performance under pressure over the past few months.

Rowing for the University of Aberdeen are:

Alex Zabala (18) from A Coruña, Spain; Fiona Bell (21) from Kilmacolm; Lachlan Cowie (21) from North Kessock; Henry Pettinger-Harte (21) from Chester; Alex Afaquah (20) from Glasgow; Rosie Kelly (21) from Belfast; Anna-Sophie Tierre (19) from Aukrug, Germany; and Isla Ferguson (19) from Edinburgh. The cox is Alex Ralston (20) from Perth, Australia.

Representing Robert Gordon University are:

Erin Wyness (20), Holly Reid (23), Andrew Main (20), Gregor Pittendreigh (20) and Josh Quinn (23) from Aberdeen; Michael Brady (21) from Livingston; Ruth Wright (26) from Turriff; and Katherine Lawrie (19) from Stonehaven. The cox is Kathryn Duthie (21) from Dunfermline.

Last year’s race was the most exciting yet, with both crews breaking the course record. Jostling for first position along the length of the course, RGUBC just clinched the title for the fifth consecutive year by only a quarter of a length. After coming so close, AUBC is determined to make 2017 the year they bring the trophy back to their boat house.

As the Aberdeen Boat Race enters its 22nd year, it is once again supported by global investment group, Aberdeen Asset Management.

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen, comments:

“Since its inception, the Aberdeen Boat Race has become a real highlight in the city’s sporting calendar. Over the past few months, the crews have faced dark, early mornings and intense training sessions in rain and shine to prepare for the race ahead of them, and the time is almost here to put that training into practice.

“Aberdeen Asset Management remains dedicated to nurturing young talent, and we look forward to celebrating both crews’ achievements on March 4, regardless of who lifts the trophy.”

Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski, Principal of RGU, says:

“Every year the crews from both universities show great skill and determination on the water and this year will be no different. The atmosphere at the finish line is electric and it is always fantastic to see Robert Gordon University students lining the riverbanks alongside the general public. I’m looking forward to another exciting race in March.”

Professor Sir Ian Diamond, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, adds:

“Last year’s race was incredibly close, and I know that AUBC has been out on the water training hard this year. The effort that both crews put into the preparations for the Aberdeen Boat Race is commendable, and I’m sure will lead to another exciting race along the River Dee.”

Following the toss for stations at 3.20pm, a number of races will take place in the run up to the title event. The Universities’ Second Crew Race takes place at 4.05pm, while the Alumni Crews take to the water at 4.25pm. The Media Challenge – which will see the Evening Express and Original 106fm take on reigning champions BBC, takes place at 5.15pm before the main Aberdeen Boat Race at 5.30pm.

Follow the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race on Twitter @2017BoatRace, Facebook www.facebook.com/AAMBoatRace and Instagram @AAMBoatRace.

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Perth Student Eyes Up Coveted Rowing Title

Aberdeen City, Featured, Sport No Responses »

Feb 242017

Alex Ralston

With thanks to Leanne Carter, Account Manager, Tricker PR.

A Perth student with an ambition to join the Royal Air Force has his sights firmly set not on the skies but on the water. Alex Ralston (20) hopes to be selected to represent the University of Aberdeen in the 22nd annual Aberdeen Boat Race this March.
If chosen, cox Alex and his fellow rowers in the mixed eight crew will face off against reigning champions Robert Gordon University (RGU) in the 3.5km race along the River Dee, which is sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management.

For Alex, who studies Geology and Petroleum Geology at the University of Aberdeen, there’s a clear parallel between the RAF and life in the rowing club.

He explains,

“Flying a plane is one of the best feelings in the world. My grandfather was in the air force, so it’s been a lifelong ambition of mine to become a pilot.

“But there are similarities between being out on the water and up in the air. There’s a real emphasis on teamwork in both disciplines, and a chain of command to follow. As cox, it’s my job to instruct the crew and I like that feeling of being in charge. I’ve always had an authoritative streak.

“The crew trains together up to 12 times a week, so we really put the hours in. Plus, we’re always socialising with each other. There’s a great sense of camaraderie within the boat club.”

Alex, who started studying at the University of Aberdeen in 2014, originally hails from Perth in Western Australia but his family relocated to their home’s Scottish namesake when he was eight years old.

Before attending university, Alex had never lifted an oar – despite being a fan of the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race on television. Alex said:

“I used to really be into running, but I joined the rowing club because I wanted to get bigger. I’ve always been quite small… but I never really bulked up!

“I was lined up as a cox in my first year, but was told it would be better to learn how to row first as it would give me a greater knowledge of what I was asking my crew to do. But my body isn’t naturally suited to rowing – I’m too small – so in 2015 I was given the opportunity to cox the Aberdeen Boat Race second crew race.

“I try to do the same training as the rest of the crew, apart from weights. I’m on a kind of weight-loss fitness regime to make myself more efficient. It feels a bit like torture, but it definitely does help. Not only do I enjoy the fitness aspect, but the rest of the crew know I’m going through the same things as they are. It helps me get more out of them when we’re out on the water.”

Alex’s university career took off from there and – despite being in the losing side – it was his chance to cox the main University of Aberdeen crew in the Aberdeen Boat Race last year that sticks out as his most memorable race to date. The 2016 event was the annual contest’s closest race in its 21 year history, with Robert Gordon University clinching the title for the fifth year in a row by just a quarter of a length – even though both teams smashed the course record.

He said:

“We were all really gutted last year. The RGU crew looked incredibly strong, but we went out on the water with a defiant attitude and we almost had it. It was a really close race all the way down the river, and the adrenaline was pumping, but in the end we didn’t quite make it. We’re fully confident this year, though.

“I think this year will probably be my last Aberdeen Boat Race, as I focus more on my goal of joining the RAF, so I’m determined to cross the finish line first.”

The Aberdeen Boat Race is made possible by the continued support of title sponsor Aberdeen Asset Management. Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen, commented:

“The passion with which the students from the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University throw themselves into their training is inspiring to all those who attend the Aberdeen Boat Race. The crews face a tough challenge this year, and will give their all in a race which I know will be thrilling for all those on the banks of the River Dee in March.”

Follow the 2017 Aberdeen Boat Race on Twitter @2017boatrace, Instagram @AAMboatrace and Facebook at www.facebook.com/AAMBoatRace

Aberdeen Boat Race Returns With A Splash In 2017

Aberdeen City, Featured, Sport No Responses »

Dec 292016

With thanks to Eoin Smith, Senior Account Executive, Tricker PR.

Erin Wyness (RGUBC) and Fiona Bell (AUBC) hope to lead their teams to victory in the 2017 Aberdeen Boat Race.

Old rivalries will be reignited this March as Aberdeen’s two universities take to the River Dee in a fierce battle of nerves and determination.

The Aberdeen Boat Race – Scotland’s longest running boat race – returns for its 22nd year on Saturday, 4 March 2017 at 5.30pm thanks to the continued support of global investment group, Aberdeen Asset Management.

The University of Aberdeen has challenged five-time reigning champions Robert Gordon University (RGU) to a rematch following 2016’s exhilarating race in which both crews smashed the course record.

Following a close race in which the mixed crews gave it their all over the 3.5km course, RGU emerged triumphant by just a quarter of a length in an impressive seven minutes and 38.6 seconds.

Ahead of the main race, the day’s programme will also include second crew, alumni and media team races. Students, alumni and members of the public are invited down onto the banks of the Dee to cheer on the crews.

Erin Wyness (20), president of RGU Boat Club, believes that her crew has what it takes to bring home the trophy for the sixth year in a row. The Events Management student from Aberdeen says:

“Of all the races we compete in throughout the year, the Aberdeen Boat Race is by far the highlight for the clubs in Aberdeen. The University of Aberdeen squad is looking strong, but we’ve been training hard in order to lift the trophy again. Bring on March 4th.”

Aberdeen University Boat Club president Fiona Bell (21), however, is confident that this will be the year that the historic institution will break RGU’s winning streak. Sport and Exercise Science student Fiona, who hails from Kilmacolm near Glasgow, says:

“We’ve been out on the water in all weathers – in daylight and darkness – to make sure we’re ready to take on RGU and the crew is in good shape. After RGU winning for five years straight, defeat is not an option – it’s time for us to reclaim the title.”

The annual boat race – hailed as Scotland’s equivalent of the Oxford-Cambridge boat race – stretches from the Bridge of Dee to the Aberdeen Boat Club, offering many great vantage points for spectators along the course. Each team of eight, and their coxes, have already begun an intensive training regime to reach peak physical fitness for the race.

Professor Sir Ian Diamond, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, says:

“The dedication and hard work of the Aberdeen Boat Race crews is an inspiration to all of us. The rowers from both universities put everything they have into the race and it is a fantastic occasion. The result of last year’s race was incredibly close, and I am looking forward to another hard-fought contest in March.”

Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski, principal of RGU, adds: “Few sporting events are more closely contested in the north east than the Aberdeen Boat Race. The crews from both universities show incredible skill and dedication in their efforts, and I hope that students, families and the general public will line the banks of the river to enjoy what is undoubtedly Aberdeen’s hardest-fought sporting event.”

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen Asset Management, comments,

“What began as quite a modest event between two local universities has become one of the north east’s most popular sporting events. The rowers should be incredibly proud of their efforts, as every year the race becomes closer and harder-fought. We are delighted to continue our support of the Aberdeen Boat Race again in 2017, and we look forward to supporting the crews alongside the general public on the shores of the River Dee.”

For all the latest updates on the crews and their training, follow the Aberdeen Boat Race on Twitter @2017boatrace, Instagram @aamboatrace and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/aamboatrace

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RGU Win Fifth Consecutive Boat Race

Aberdeen City, Featured, Sport No Responses »

Mar 172016

With thanks to Eoin Smith, Senior Account Executive, Tricker PR.

Picture issued for free use by tricker pr on behalf of aberdeen asset management 2016 aberdeen boat race between robert gordon university (black/white) and aberdeen university (blue/yellow) on the river dee .... Pictured: Lord Provost George Adam with RGU after winning the 2016 race photo: Ross Johnston/Newsline Media.

Lord Provost George Adam with RGU after winning the 2016 race photo: Ross Johnston/Newsline Media.

Robert Gordon University has won the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race, which took place on Saturday March 12, in record time. They won the closest ever race with a time of seven minutes and 38.6 seconds, beating rivals from the University of Aberdeen for the fifth consecutive year by just a quarter of a length. The University of Aberdeen was the runner up with a time of seven minutes and 40.1 seconds.

Both crews broke the previous course record of seven minutes and 42.2 seconds set by Robert Gordon University in 2014.

Hordes of spectators turned up to watch the teams take to the River Dee as the rivalry between the universities reached its peak.

Erin Wyness, president of Robert Gordon University Boat Club, says,

“For this to be RGU’s fifth win in a row feels awesome, as we were all so determined to retain the title. I’m so proud of the crew.

“We would like to thank Aberdeen Asset Management for their continued support of the Universities’ Boat Race as without them it wouldn’t be possible. Also, a big thanks to Ian and the University of Aberdeen crew, who always put up a great challenge.”

Ian Walker, president of the University of Aberdeen Boat Club, says,

“Well done to Erin and the rest of Robert Gordon University Boat Club, they all put on a brilliant display on the water and worked very well together as a team.

“Even though we didn’t win, I’m still so pleased with our performance on the river as I know my team put their all into the race. The atmosphere throughout the day has been unreal and we all feel so honoured to be involved in such a memorable sporting event in Aberdeen.”

The alumni boat race was won by Robert Gordon University by one and a quarter lengths in a time of two minutes and 14.5 seconds. The universities’ second crew boat race was won by the University of Aberdeen in a time of seven minutes and 48.1 seconds.

The Evening Express competed against last year’s winners Original 106fm in the first heat of the media challenge, followed by the BBC challenging STV in the second heat. Original 106fm and the BBC went on to row against each other in the final, with the BBC winning the 2016 media challenge boat race with a time of one minute and 14 seconds. They raced 300m in coxed ‘tub’ pairs.

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen Asset Management, says,

“I would like to offer the winning crew from Robert Gordon University huge congratulations on their fifth consecutive boat race win. I would also like to praise the efforts of the Aberdeen University Boat Club which also performed exceptionally well today.

“Both teams should be extremely proud of themselves and all the hard work they’ve put in to training for this year’s boat race. It is always rewarding to watch talented, young rowers push themselves year after year to achieve such incredible results. Aberdeen Asset Management is proud to continue supporting young talent as well as Scotland’s longest running boat race.”

Follow the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AAMBoatRace, on Twitter @2016boatrace or on Instagram @aamboatrace

“Rowing on the Dee”: City Students Recreate Adele Classic

Aberdeen City, Sport No Responses »

Mar 112016

With thanks to Eoin Smith, Senior Account Executive, Tricker PR.

Wednesday 24th February 2016, Aberdeen, Scotland. Aberdeen Universities Boat Race.

Robert Gordon University and the University of Aberdeen will face off on the water at 4.00pm on Saturday, March 12.

Aberdeen Students have produced a parody of Adele’s No.1 hit ‘Rolling in the Deep’ in the run up to one of the city’s top sporting events.

Rowers from Aberdeen University and Robert Gordon University have created thevideo ‘Rowing on the Dee’ to encourage spectators to the riverside to watch the 21st annual Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race this Saturday, 12 March 2016.

Hundreds of spectators are expected to line the River Dee as eighteen students take to the water at 4.00pm to go head to head over a gruelling 3.5km course.

As the students row from the Bridge of Dee to the Aberdeen Boat Club, their focus will be on one thing only: crossing the finish line first and receiving the glory of lifting the coveted trophy.

But the title race, which is sponsored by Aberdeen Asset Management, is not the only attraction on Saturday for those wishing to come down and support the universities as they battle it out on the water – there is plenty of action to entertain sports fans of all ages.

Following the toss for stations at 1.50pm, during which the crews will decide which side of the river they will row on, the alumni crews will race at 2.35pm. This will be followed by the boat club novices, who will race in the Universities’ Second Crew Race at 2.55pm.

The media challenge – which will see reigning champions Original 106fm take on challengers Evening Express, STV and BBC – in a short-course doubles race takes place at 3.40pm. The title race then takes place at 4.00pm, followed by the presentation of trophies at 4.30pm.

University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University Rowers’ video – ‘Rowing on the Dee’

Spectators are free to stand along the length of the course to cheer on the crews, however the best viewing locations are considered the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, the Wellington Suspension Bridge and the finish line at the Aberdeen Boat Club.

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen, comments:

“The students taking part in the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race are a credit to their universities. We firmly believe that extra-curricular activities – alongside dedication in the lecture hall – is an important part of the university experience, and helps produce well-rounded, employable young adults. Aberdeen Asset Management is proud to once again sponsor the Universities’ Boat Race, and we look forward to a thrilling day on the river.”

For students wishing to attend the boat race, a number of free shuttle buses have been arranged.

The University of Aberdeen spectators bus will pick up from Hillhead Turning Circle (12.15pm), Aberdeen Sports Village (12.30pm) and the Tilted Wig, Union Street (12.45pm). The Robert Gordon University spectators bus will depart from Holburn Street at Union Grove (12.30pm), The Caledonian Hotel on Union Terrace (12.45pm), RGU Schoolhill (12.45pm) and Marischal College (1.00pm). Return buses depart at 5.00pm and 6.00pm.

For more information about the Follow the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race on www.facebook.com/AAMBoatRace , Twitter @2016BoatRace and Instagram @aamboatrace

Final Crews Announced For Universities’ Boat Race

Aberdeen City, Featured, Sport No Responses »

Mar 032016

With thanks to Eoin Smith, Senior Account Executive, Tricker PR.

Reigning champions Robert Gordon University will go head to head with the University of Aberdeen on March 12 in the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race.

The final crews for the 21st Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race were announced on Tuesday.

The 18 students, who will compete for the title come from across the globe – from Perth in Australia to Detmold in Germany. Their intense training and dedication have won each of them a place in their university’s boats for Scotland’s longest running boat race.

The annual event takes place on Saturday March 12 2016 and sees Aberdeen’s two universities, Robert Gordon University and the University of Aberdeen, battle it out in a demanding 3.5km race as they both attempt to be crowned champions of the River Dee.

The boat crews were hand-picked by Aberdeen University Boat Club (AUBC) president Ian Walker, and Robert Gordon University Boat Club (RGUBC) president Erin Wyness after a long and difficult selection process. Each crew member was selected for their determination, technique and speed on the water, with both presidents hoping that they have picked the winning team.

The University of Aberdeen crew members are:

Ian Walker (21) from Edinburgh, Henry Pettinger-Harte (20) from Chester, Laurence Jennings (18) from Aberdeen, Marvin Mücke (21) from Detmold in Germany, Fiona Bell (20) from Glasgow, Isla Ferguson (19) from Edinburgh, Jose van Paassen (26) from Schipluiden in the Netherlands, and Lianne Stevenson (22) from Kirkwall. The cox is Alex Ralston (19) from Perth in Australia.

The Robert Gordon University crew comprises:

Ruth Wright (25) from Turriff, Lewis McCue (21) from Braemar, Anna Kidd (19) from Forfar, Holly Reid (22), Erin Wyness (19), Gary Wilson (24), Gregor Pittendreigh (18) and Josh Quinn (22) all from Aberdeen. The cox is Kathryn Duthie (20) from Dunfermline.

Last year, after a fiercely competitive race along the River Dee, the Robert Gordon University boat crew was crowned race champions with a time of eight minutes and 30 seconds. The rivalry between both teams is set to be at an all-time high at this year’s boat race, as the University of Aberdeen attempt to knock their opponents off the top spot on March 12.

With the boat race now in its 21st year, the annual event has become one of the highlights of Aberdeen’s sporting calendar thanks to the continued support of global investment group, Aberdeen Asset Management.

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen, comments:

“We’re once again thrilled to be supporting the Universities’ Boat Race and the city’s top rowing talent. Both crews have continued to train very hard throughout a difficult winter; by doing so they have all shown sheer determination, enthusiasm and commitment towards rowing. Aberdeen Asset Management is dedicated to supporting young talent, and it’s always rewarding to see the achievements both teams have made.”

Professor Sir Ian Diamond, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of University of Aberdeen adds:

“The friendly rivalry between both universities reaches its peak during the boat race. Our students always turn out in force to support the University of Aberdeen team, which I know means a lot to the boat crew and helps to give them a big boost on the day of the race. Both clubs always perform exceptionally well, but I’m hopeful that this will be our year.”

Professor Ferdinand von Prondzynski, Principal of RGU said:

“The drive and determination from the boat crews is always wonderful to watch. Both teams have worked very hard in preparation for the race, and I have no doubt that it will be an extremely close competition on the day. The boat race manages to create a real buzz amongst our students, who are all eager to get involved and cheer on their team by the riverside. We’re all very proud of RGUBC and what they’ve managed to achieve over the years.”

Following the toss for stations at 1.50pm, a number of races will take place in the run up to the title event. The Alumni Crews take to the water at 2.35pm while the Universities’ Second Crew Race takes place at 2.55pm. The Media Challenge – will see the Evening Express, STV, and the BBC take on last year’s champions, Original 106fm – takes place at 3.40pm before the main Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race at 4pm.

Follow the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race on Twitter @2016BoatRace, Facebook www.facebook.com/AAMBoatRace and Instagram @AAMBoatRace.

Triple Gold Medalist Hoping For Boat Race Success

Aberdeen City, Sport No Responses »

Feb 292016

With thanks to Eoin Smith, Senior Account Executive, Tricker PR.

Lewis McCue (far left) at the Under 23 World Championships in Bulgaria last year

A Braemar student making waves in rowing hopes to be selected to represent his university in one of the north east’s hardest-fought sporting events. Robert Gordon University student Lewis McCue, an Under 23 Team GB member, hopes to make the cut for the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race, which takes place on March 12.

Taking up the sport at the age of 12, Lewis rose through the ranks of the Aberdeen Schools’ Rowing Association and has since continued his success while at university.

He first represented Great Britain at a national level at the age of 16, and has gone on to compete in the Junior and Under 23 World Rowing Championships.

Applied sports and exercise student Lewis (20) says,

“Like everyone, my rowing career has had its highs and lows but, through years of hard training, I have built up my performance and ability. I have been very lucky to travel all across Europe to train and compete on the world stage, and had the pleasure of winning three gold medals for my home nation – Scotland – at the Commonwealth Games Regatta.

“My rowing highlight so far is winning a silver medal in the coxless fours at the Under 23 World Championships in Bulgaria last year. I was the only rower in Scotland to be awarded a medal at that level, and the experience really made all the training worthwhile.

“There is no other feeling quite like standing on the podium knowing that you are second fastest in the world at your chosen sport.”

It’s no surprise that Lewis excels in rowing: prowess in the sport runs in the family. In 1958, his grandfather rowed for Oxford in the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race and, although not on the winning side, his passion for rowing is something that rubbed off on Lewis from an early age.

Lewis says,

“I’ve spoken to my grandfather many times about his experiences in rowing, and I’m very proud of what he achieved. When I was 16 we were able to row together, which is something I’ll always remember.

“He and my grandmother came out to watch me in Bulgaria last year, which was the first time they had seen me row for Great Britain. It was quite emotional.”

A veteran of the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race, Lewis hopes to make his third appearance – and win – at the hard-fought race.

He says,

“The Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race is different to other races. At 3.5km, it’s longer than most others and rowing in a mixed crew really changes the dynamic.

“I’ve won the boat race twice before, and I hope to be there again on the start line, ready to lay everything on the line in order to finish first.”

Lewis is one of many rowers hoping to be selected to represent Robert Gordon University at the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race on March 12. The race will see the university pitted against rivals the University of Aberdeen on a gruelling 3.5km stretch of the River Dee.

The final crews will be selected by each club’s president – Erin Wyness of reigning champions Robert Gordon University Boat Club (RGUBC), and Ian Walker of Aberdeen University Boat Club (AUBC) – who will take performance, ability and determination into account.

Martin Gilbert, chief executive of Aberdeen, comments,

“Every year I am impressed by the skill and tenacity of the rowers competing in the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race. The boat club presidents have a difficult task ahead of them selecting their crews, but whatever the choice I know that the race will be an exciting day for both the rowers in the boats and spectators on the riverbank.”

Last year, RGUBC won their fourth consecutive title race by one and three-quarter lengths in a time of eight minutes and 30 seconds. With AUBC eager to reclaim the title, spectators from across the city are expected to line the river to cheer on the crews as they push themselves to the limit to cross the finishing line.

Follow the 2016 Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race on Twitter @2016boatrace, Instagram @AAMboatrace and Facebook at www.facebook.com/AAMBoatRace

Universities’ Boat Race: Sat 12th March 2016

Aberdeen City, Sport No Responses »

Feb 252016

With thanks to Gemma Setter, Account Executive, Tricker PR.

ABERDEEN UNIVERSITIES BOAT RACE PREVIEW FOR 2016

Erin Wyness (RGU) and Ian Walker (University of Aberdeen) lead their crews in the 2016 Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race.

The 21st Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race will see the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University competing against one another in a 3.5km race along the River Dee, determining who takes home the much sought-after trophy.
The day begins at 1.50pm with the toss for stations, followed by the universities’ 2nd crew race at 2.10pm, alumni race at 2.35pm and media challenge race at 3.40pm.

The title event begins at 4.00pm.

Last year saw the Robert Gordon University crew row to victory as they claimed their fourth consecutive title race win. Is this the year that the University of Aberdeen manage to knock their competitors off the top spot? Or will the Robert Gordon University remain undefeated for the fifth year in a row? Whatever the outcome, the 2016 event is bound to be a thrilling watch.

Spectators are encouraged to come along and cheer on the teams at all the events on the day.

To follow the Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race on Twitter go to www.twitter.com/2016BoatRace and become a fan of the race on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/AAMBoatRace.

21st Aberdeen Asset Management Universities’ Boat Race

Saturday 12th March 2016
From the Bridge of Dee to Aberdeen Boat Club
Races from 2.10 PM.
Title race begins at 4.00PM

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