Why have the junior qualifiers been moved to Saturday morning?
The junior qualifiers have been moved from Friday evening to Saturday morning because of the forecast heat. The welfare of competitors remains the priority, and the revised schedule places racing in the coolest part of the day. Younger athletes are less able to thermoregulate and are therefore at greater risk in higher temperatures.
Can I still train, and when will the course close?
On Friday, the course will close to training at 4:30pm. Crews should be clear of the rafts and Boat Tent lawn by that time. A weather warning remains in force on Friday, and crews are reminded that there will be no safety cover during training sessions.
On Saturday, the course will close at 7:30am. Crews should again be clear of the rafts and Boat Tent lawn by this time. The course will reopen after the Qualifying Races.
I have bought a grandstand ticket. Is it still valid?
If you pre-purchased a grandstand ticket for qualifiers this will remain valid for all sessions across Friday and Saturday. If you are no longer able to attend please contact the Badge Office (badges@hrr.co.uk or on 01491 572153 during opening hours) to discuss a refund.
How can I buy tickets for Qualifying Races?
An ‘all-sessions’ ticket can be purchased in person from the Badge Office or by calling 01491 572 153.
Tickets to individual sessions will be available to purchase in person from the grandstand and from a sales point near the boat tent shop from 5:00pm on Friday 26 June and from 8:00am Saturday 27 June.
What are the ticket session times?
Session 1 (Friday 26): 18:00 - 21:00
Session 2 (Saturday 27): 08:30 - 11:00
Session 3 (Saturday 27): 11:15 - 13:45
Will local clubs still be able to use the river on Saturday morning?
We appreciate the significant impact this change may have on local clubs. Crews not involved in qualifying are asked to avoid the area on Saturday morning, as congestion is likely to be significant. Non-competing crews may not use the course during qualifying.
Are substitutions allowed because of the rescheduling?
Yes. Temporary substitutions may be approved for qualifying races where the change is directly caused by the rescheduling, provided the substitute athlete complies with the Rules. This flexibility applies to qualifying only, and original crews should be restored for the Regatta. Requests for such substitutions should be sent to entries@hrr.co.uk, and should not be assumed.
Does this mean permanent crew changes are allowed?
No. This does not create a general right to make permanent crew changes. Any flexibility is limited to temporary substitutions arising from the exceptional timetable change. Medical and other substitutions will continue to follow the normal process.
Can I race at different time to that scheduled for my event?
Scheduling the Qualifying Races is a complex process, aimed at ensuring a reliable timetable that delivers safe and fair racing. To achieve that, we require all crews to race at their allotted time and cannot fit them in at other times.
What time will the Draw take place?
The Draw will now take place at 4pm on Saturday, 27 June in the Boat Tent Area. For those unable to attend in person, it will be livestreamed on our website and on YouTube.
How will further updates be communicated?
Further updates will be published through official Henley Royal Regatta channels, including the website, direct email, and social media. The most-recently published version should always be treated as authoritative. Please avoid contacting the Regatta directly unless your query is urgent: we will be publishing further advice and guidance as well as updated FAQs in due course.
Can trailers stay overnight between Friday 26 and Saturday 27?
Yes, trailers may remain on site overnight. Please ensure they are left in designated areas and secured appropriately. All trailers must be removed by 18:00 on Saturday.
When can crews resume training after the Qualifying Races on Saturday?
Crews may resume training 30 minutes after the last Qualifying Race crew has crossed the Finish Line. Please wait for official confirmation before returning to the water.
