Everything You Need to Know About Wallingford Regatta
How are you spending your bank holiday? On Sunday, we'll be heading to Wallingford Regatta, which takes place in Eton, Berkshire. Here's everything you need to know about the event:
What is Wallingford Regatta?
The Wallingford Regatta is one of the first big events of this year's rowing calendar, and is organised by Wallingford Rowing Club.
It's one of the UK's most popular regattas and, in 2005, it earned the title of the largest one-day regatta ever to take place in the UK. It's popularity may be due to the fact that all rowing abilities are catered for, with 65 trophies up for grabs throughout the day.
This also makes it a great event to watch, with a race every six minutes, and a huge variance in the type of rowing on display. With around 2,500 competitors registered to take part, you'll get to watch under-14s compete on the same day as seasoned Team GB Olympic athletes, so it's well worth the trip if you're in the area.
Where Does It Take Place?
The event dates back to the 1860s, and was originally held on the Wallingford stretch of the River Thames. It stayed here until 2001, when river conditions caused repeated issues for the event organisers.
As a result of the these issues, Wallingford Regatta now takes place on Dorney Lake - a large body of water next to the River Thames , set in an impressive 450-acre parkland near Eton.
This is one of the world's best rowing venues, and has played host to several prestigious rowing competitions, such as the 2006 World Rowing Championships. More recently, it hosted the London 2012 rowing and kayaking events, for both the Olympics and Paralympics.
The regatta's picturesque setting makes it the perfect place for some bank holiday fun!
