HENLEY REGATTA

Apart from during the two world wars, the Henley Regatta, first held in 1839 has been an annual boat racing event. Originally hosted by the mayor and the people of Henley as a public attraction, the emphasis rapidly changed to competitive amateur rowing due to its success. As its popularity grew, what started out as a one day event has today become a five day event. In recent years, Henley Regatta have seen entries from all over the world and in order to keep the entries controlled, qualifying races are held the week before the regatta. The Henley Regatta's patrons have successively been linked to royals and for this reason is rightly referred to as the Henley Royal Regatta, an event never to miss.