The Head of the River Race Committee is delighted to announce that the 100th anniversary race will take place on Saturday, 28th March 2026.
Since its founding in 1926 by the visionary rowing coach Steve Fairbairn, the Head of the River Race has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most respected rowing competitions. What began as Fairbairn’s solution to “winter boredom” has evolved into an institution that attracts over 320 crews and more than 2,800 athletes to London’s Tideway every year. The 4¼-mile Championship Course runs from Mortlake to Putney, with crews racing in a processional format to compete for the fastest overall time.
From the early days, when Tideway clubs dominated the field, to the modern era where crews from across the United Kingdom and beyond vie for trophies, the HoRR is a highlight of the winter racing season. The Fairbairn Trophy, awarded to the fastest overall crew, bears the name of the race’s founder and represents the pinnacle of achievement in this historic competition.
As we approach the centenary, the HoRR Committee extends a cordial invitation to rowing clubs and universities to become part of this historic event. Whether you represent a club with decades of Head of the River Race heritage, a university crew ready for your first tideway race, or an overseas club looking to test yourselves against the finest competition, we look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be an unforgettable celebration on the Thames.
Entry applications will open in due course, with full details regarding registration and entry fees to be announced on our website.