Whether it is being an island or just a national trait the British never seem to be more at home than when messing about in boats. One of the most well known events is the boat race between Oxford and Cambridge that takes place on the River Thames each spring. But the Boat Race is not the only rowing event to take place on the Thames each year. The Thames at Henley-on-Thames plays host to the Royal Regatta each July. The first race was held in 1839 and with exception of the two World Wars has been held each year since. The royal patronage began in 1851 when H.R.H. Prince Albert became patron.
This year the Royal Regatta runs from 1st to 5th July and provides for rowing races of different classes of boat and crew. The course is somewhat longer than the standard 2,000 metres being 1 mile, 550 yards or 2,112 metres. Unlike most international rowing events Henley is still run on a two lane knock out basis. There are 19 events in all from eights to single sculling races and is open to both men and women in their respective events. There are a number of prizes but arguably the most covered is the original 1839 Eights trophy the Grand Challenge Cup which coming into this years race is currently held by Victoria City Rowing Club & Kingston Rowing Club, Canada.
Good luck to all competitors in this years regatta.