The Head of the River Race, London's iconic rowing event, is set to return on Saturday, 22nd March 2025, featuring over 300 men's eights crews competing along the 4.25-mile Championship Course from Mortlake to Putney. As reported by London Cheapo, this prestigious race attracts around 3,750 competitors, including 50-60 international crews, making it one of the largest single processional rowing races in the world.
History of the Head Race
The Head of the River Race (HORR) was founded in 1925 by Steve Fairbairn, an influential rowing coach who believed in the importance of distance training. Initially held on a Sunday with 21 crews participating, the race was moved to Saturdays due to Amateur Rowing Association concerns. The event has been held annually since 1946, except for a brief interruption during World War II.
- The race covers the 4.25-mile Championship Course from Mortlake to Putney, reverse of the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race route.
- It has grown significantly since its inception, now attracting hundreds of crews from the UK and overseas.
- The HORR serves as both a competitive event and a social occasion, marking the start of the rowing season.
- Women's participation in similar events began in 1927, with the first Women's Eights Head of the River Race held in 1930.
Key Viewing Spots Along Thames
The Head of the River Race offers spectators numerous vantage points along the Thames to witness the rowing action. Key viewing spots include:
- Chiswick Bridge: An ideal location to observe the race's start and build-up, with Mortlake buzzing as crews gather.
- Barnes Bridge: A popular spot to watch the early stages of the race, offering a footbridge for spectators.
- Hammersmith: While Hammersmith Bridge is closed to spectators, the nearby Thames Reach provides a vast viewing area on the north bank.
- Putney Embankment: Excellent for watching the final sprint, with a clear view of the last two minutes of the race.
Spectators are advised to arrive early to secure prime positions, especially at popular spots like Barnes Bridge. Many rowing clubs and pubs along the route offer refreshments, enhancing the viewing experience.
International Crews and Participants
The Head of the River Race has grown into a truly international event, attracting crews from across the globe. Approximately 50-60 overseas crews participate annually, representing countries such as Germany, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Sweden, Denmark, France, Italy, and the Netherlands. The race's popularity among international rowers has led to the creation of an Overseas Trophy, which in 2024 was claimed by Commercial A from Ireland, finishing an impressive 15th overall.
- The race committee allocates rankings to overseas crews to determine their starting positions.
- International participation adds to the event's prestige and competitive spirit.
- Overseas crews must submit their entries earlier than British crews, with a deadline of 17:00 GMT on 14th February 2025.
- NUI Galway B crew from Ireland won the Overseas pennant in 2023, while a Dutch crew from Royal Maas Yacht Club secured the Masters D category.
This international flavor not only enhances the competition but also fosters cultural exchange and camaraderie among rowers from diverse backgrounds, making the Head of the River Race a truly global rowing celebration.
Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel
For those attending the Head of the River Race 2025, Mercure London Hyde Park Hotel offers an excellent place to stay. Located in the heart of London, the hotel provides easy access to key race viewing spots along the Thames. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy both the excitement of the rowing event and the vibrant city atmosphere.
