Henley Royal Regatta 2013

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by Bryony Harrison (subscribe)

Freelance writer and poet from London; if you would like to read my poetry, please check out my book, 'Poems on the Page', available from goo.gl/Ta4oAX.

Event: 03/07/2013 - 07/07/2013

A Rowing Race With Style

Image from www.hrr.co.uk

On your marks, get set, row. Those are the words you'll be hearing every five minutes if your at Henley-on-Thames between the 3rd-9th July. 2112 metres, ninety races, twenty events, one course. The Henley Royal Regatta all began in 1839 as part of an amusement fair staged by the Mayor. Over the years, the rowing became the main focus of the event, and the other features fell away. It gained a royal title in 1851 with the Patronage of Prince Albert, and now the Henley Royal Regatta is so popular that it has become a five-day event.

Unlike international races, this regatta is a one-on-one knock out, with only two teams competing in each heat. To keep the pace, a new race is launched every five minutes, meaning whatever time you arrive, you won't miss out. The events include Eights, Fours, Quadruple Sculls, Double Sculls, and Coxless Pairs. It is a straight course along the River Thames from Temple Island to Poplar Point, with several spectator spots, including the luncheon tent, seafood restaurant, coffee bar, and bandstand. If you are looking for a family outing, this will make a perfect day trip.

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