Morning Briefing with Moe Sibihi – Sunday 6, 2025

All you need to know about Finals Day racing today at Henley Royal Regatta with Moe Sbihi, Olympic gold medallist and HRR Steward. 

8. 12:00. The Prince Philip Challenge Trophy, 284 Headington School v 296 Shiplake College

This is a huge one, a final between two schools that absolutely earned their place to be here. Headington School are always calm under pressure, always technically spot on. They are no strangers to Finals Day. They know exactly what it takes to be in this position with a chance to win the trophy. Shiplake have come through some tough racing this week and they are here with serious intent. It’s going to be a great race - full of power, belief and big ambition. I think it’s going to be a classic. 

14. 13:00. The Thames Challenge Cup, 69 Thames R.C. ‘A’  v 47 London R.C. ‘A’

A local derby. Just before lunch, we get a proper heavyweight clash. They are only separated by a few hundred metres on the towpath down in Putney. London have looked really strong through the week, and Thames have got such a formidable history in this event in recent years. It might get a bit fiery and I love watching The Thames Challenge Cup club eights. It has been 19 years since London has won this event. Can they turn the tide?

22. 15:40. The Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup, 262 Shiplake College v 260 Radley College

Can Shiplake no longer become the bridesmaid and win The Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup, or can Radley win this event for the first time in over 25 years? The boat tents at boating time will be full of people making so much noise. There is a lot of expectation for both crews. Expect really good racing, seriously good quality schoolboy racing. I feel like this race could come down to inches.