English Rowing Heritage

Water sports are very popular among British. As there is a huge network of canals running through the United Kingdom, boating, yachting, rowing and fishing are deeply enjoyed by all the country folks and these are also a famous mode of vacations. There are various sporting events and regattas arranged all around the country.

One legendary rowing event that is celebrated annually is the Henley royal regatta. It is held in Henley-on-Thames which is a small town in the Oxfordshire. It is situated to the south of Temple Island which is a very famous tourist attraction in River Thames. Visitors get the chance to see Olympic rowers contest in Britain. This regatta is attended by a large group of people.

The Henley Regatta took place for the first time way back in 1839. It was organized at first as a fair by the Mayor and people of Henley. It was a public attraction and people came to enjoy themselves. But soon it turned into a competitive event mainly with high ranking world class rowers participating in it every year. The regatta got so popular that it lasted for two days. The number of entries kept increasing and the regatta turned into a three day and then into a four day event by 1906.

In 1986 it was turned into a 5 day contest with an increase in the maximum number of entries for its famous events. The regatta received royal patronage when H.R.H Prince Albert became its first royal patron. Members of royal family visited the events every year and it came to be known as Henley Royal Regatta.

This regatta has its old and rich history and holds a special position in the world of rowing. The regatta was institutionalized long before the national and international rowing federations were formed. The rules and regulations of the contests are independent of British and International governing bodies. There are total 19 events that are held in the five days of regatta. Men and women from all around the world participate in the competitions as singles and as teams.

The land on which the events take place is the property of the regatta. All the installations are taken out once the regatta ends. When the regatta approaches the next year, the venue is again established and decorated with same enthusiasm. So if you want to enjoy the English warmth and experience its natural beauty and heritage, Henley Royal Regatta is just the thing for you.

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