london information / head of the river race london

What: Head of the River Race: not as well known as the Oxford to Cambrige race, the head of the river race is much bigger (in terms of number of crews), much londger (in terms of time from start to end) and rowed in the opposite direction (from Mortlake to Putney). It is a 'processional race' (crews start every 10 seconds) for eights, rowed over a 4.25 mile championship course. Up to 420 crews (including 50 - 60 foreign crews) and 3,750 competitors compete for the fastest time. The record for the mens race is 16 minutes 37 seconds and the whole event takes around 1 1/2 hours

When: The mens race is held on the third or fourth Saturday in March, depending on tides and the date of the oxford and cambridge boat race (the two races are usually held on separate days). The 2004 mens race was cancelled, due to adverse weather. The suggested date and start time for the mens race for 2006 is 125th March 2006 at 12:00. See website below for more information.

Where: along the thames from Mortlake to Putney. Best views are from the Surrey Bank above Chiswick Bridge, from Hammersmith Bridge or at the finishing line in Putney.

Station: Hammersmith, Chiswick or Putney Bridge

Website: horr.co.uk - for mens information and entry, wehorr.co.uk for the womens race