The Season: Henley Royal Regatta begins in style
The Henley Royal Regatta has started in style, with an exciting first day of competition. One of the mainstays of the British Summer Social Season, this event attracts thousands of spectators to the riverbank and provides a wonderful day out.
The dress code for Stewards’ Enclosure has been slightly relaxed for the day, in light of the current heatwave in the UK. Ties must remain in place, but jackets can be removed in order to help visitors cope with the scorching temperatures.
Steward’s offers the very best vantage point for those watching the competitors on the water and is the place to be seen at this popular event of The Season.
There is great excitement in Henely this morning for the start of several days of top-quality sport. Races today include Wargrave 110 Thames R.C D v 93 London R.C. ‘B’ and 3.05pm. It was tightly contested between these crews when they fought it out at Women’s Eights on the river in March and it looks like it will be a tight contest again today.
Meanwhile, at 5.35pm Radley College will compete against Windsor Boys’ School. Radley are considered a juggernaut in terms of junior rowing and were very highly placed at National Schools Regatta. These two are close neighbours and will be fighting for victory on the first day.
Highlights for the rest of the week include the Grand and Remenham Challenge Cups for Premier open and women’s eights, which pits the British and Australian national teams against each other in blockbuster Saturday showdowns. Meanwhile, the Netherlands’ women’s eight gets a bye to Sunday’s Final, their men’s crew will race against Cambridge University’s victorious Blue Boat, strengthened by the inclusion of Olympic gold medallist, Tom Ford.
The inaugural staging of The Bridge Challenge Plate for Intermediate women’s eights opens the path to a Saturday rematch of the Henley Women’s Regatta championship eight final between Leander Club and the University of London and Thames Rowing Club. With just a few metres separating the crews under a week ago, the newest Trophy on the Henley Royal Regatta docket promises action and drama aplenty.
While the rowing takes centre stage at this prestigious event, there are plenty of social hotspots to visit.
Cala will have a buzzy atmosphere for sure. Cala will be serving Pommery Champagne throughout the afternoon and into the evening and visitors can take to the dancefloor to celebrate the various achievements of those rowing in the regatta.
The Season: A Guide to the British Summer Social Season
