Four-oared gigs (a race in each term).
Pair oars, with coxswains.
Single sculls.
Four-oared gigs for study classes, each crew being distinguished by the name of a master.
In connection with the single sculls there is a curious and unusual trophy, known as “The Rushworth Seal.” This is an old-fashioned gold seal, presented by the father of Mr. C. E. Rushworth, midshipman, who lost his life in a gallant attempt to save that of a seaman who fell overboard from H.M.S. Agincourt, in the Levant, in 1877. It is kept in the messroom, in a glass case, with a small model of a ship’s cutter, and is held by the winner of the single sculls for one year, thus serving to “keep green” the memory of the youthful hero, and stimulate others to do likewise.
The regatta has usually been an occasion upon which numerous guests are invited on board to witness the prowess of the cadets with the oar, and also to enjoy a little harmless recreation in the shape of dancing. The editor of the Britannia Magazine evidently considers that there is too little looking on and too much dissipation in the way of dancing and attending to fair guests.
The regatta of 1886 was held on a very bad day, the rain coming down heavily towards the end. The editorial remarks are a little bitter:—
“It is hoped that the next time the officers will have an opportunity of seeing some of the races, as they are naturally interested in the performances of the cadets. As at present arranged, we think that their hospitality to their many visitors must make them utterly unable to see a single race.”
And again:—
“Dancers had been driven by stress of weather from the poop to the middle deck, and were enjoying ‘Sir Roger’ when the drowned rats appeared.”