Evesham Regatta made a huge splash over May Bank Holiday weekend, with sunny skies and lively racing as competitors from across the UK battled it out on the River Avon.
Over a thrilling two days on the water, 27 clubs competed in 226 races, with athletes of all ages covering an estimated 172km of racing.
Visiting teams came from as far afield as Bideford in Devon and were matched by a strong local presence from Stratford, Warwick and Royal Grammar School, Worcester.
Out on the course, Evesham Rowing Club notched up an impressive eight wins on Saturday and seven on Sunday. The Victor Ludorum was awarded to the top visiting club, Warwick, who crossed the finish line with an impressive seven wins on Saturday.
The Victor Ludorum was awarded to the top visiting club Warwick who crossed the finish line with an impressive seven wins on Saturday. On Sunday, Evesham won another seven events, with Huntingdon claiming five and Bewdley four.
Warwick Boat Club get their just deserts from the mayor of Evesham
Crucially, the successful event raised vital funds to support the Evesham Rowing and Racquet Club’s ongoing operation.
Earlier this year, officials shared that the club was facing a ‘perfect economic storm’ following the cancellation of the 2024 regatta and two previous head races due to high water levels and rising operating costs.
“With totals still coming in, we know thousands have been raised to help secure the club’s future,” said club chairman Simon Edwards.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our 47 sponsors, including Worcestershire County Council and local businesses like The Nook, Ferryfast, and Enza.”
“Thanks also to our community — everyone who bought a slice of cake or a cup of tea helped us get back on our feet. These two unforgettable days of racing didn’t just showcase some seriously competitive sculling.
“It highlighted the resilience and community spirit of Evesham Rowing Club. And this is due to our incredible volunteers.
“In its heyday, Evesham Regatta was known as the ‘Henley of the Midlands’ and the weekend has shown we are steering our course to become this once again.”
Behind the scenes, over 100 volunteers worked in 134 different volunteer roles between 5.15am and 8pm.
They came from all areas of the club to form an intergenerational network of club members, parents, alumni and supporters, who all pulled together with a shared passion for the sport and Evesham Rowing Club.
“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of the regatta,” said the club’s volunteer coordinator
“Whether they were directing traffic, baking cakes, launching boats, or running race control, their generosity, enthusiasm and team spirit made everything possible.
It’s a huge operation — and they brought it to life with smiles and energy.”
And as the last boats were packed away, reflections on the weekend were positive.
Stratford Boat Club’s Vice Captain, Amanda Bowden added: “We had a brilliant time with great spectator views.
“Everything from the enclosure to the café and delicious cakes, to the running of the regatta was fabulous, providing racing from novice to performance, across all ages.”
Competitors are invited back to Evesham’s Head Race on Saturday, October 11 2025, and next year’s regatta is set for May 2 and 3.
See erc.club for more information on Evesham Rowing Club.
Stratford juniors have a team huddle. Picture Stratford-upon-Avon Boat Club
