WORCESTER Dragons members raced in six classes at the British National Cup Championships, securing a haul of trophies and medals.

As well as the Dragons and Dragonflies open crews, the city competed in mixed, women’s, seniors, under 18s and the breast cancer survivors challenge where they came second in both 200-metre and 500m disciplines.

With up to 21 races in Nottingham, many new faces to the club joined the old hands to cause upsets at all distances. Batchworth Dragons and eventual champions Amathus proved too strong for Dragons as medals and trophies were missed and won by a fraction of a second.

There was a silver medal for the mixed 500m crew, bronze for the 1,000m and fourth place in the 500m open by 0.3 seconds after a late charge.

Hordes of members cheered the racing crew on in the key races. This year has heralded a massive increase in membership and competition for places within the club.

After their exploits in Dublin with a mostly Grand Dragons qualifying crew, the club raced in the senior category for the first time.

They destroyed Kingston Royals with clear water in the 500m discipline.

The increased number of female members from the reinvigorated breast cancer survivor and supporters initiative has provided contenders for two women’s crews.

They faced international class competition but raced with style and commitment.

Worcester’s under 18s members led a crew who triumphed over capable opposition, winning both 200m and 500m grand finals.

After vying with peer group club Exe-Calibre throughout the season, the weekend showdown proved Worcester have the edge for stamina and an explosive finish.