THE RIVER Avon will be the centre of attention this weekend (May 3 and 4) as Evesham looks set to welcome crews and large crowds for the annual regatta.
More than 40 clubs from all over the UK will be battling it out on the water for two days of epic side-by-side racing.
Events include everything from single sculls to eights, with competitors ranging in age from 12 to over 80 years old.
The good weather and sunshine forecast for Saturday and Sunday is additionally welcome news for organisers, Evesham Rowing Club, as last year the event was cancelled due to flooding.
The impact of further floods over the winter and rising costs combined to create a ‘perfect storm’ in the run up to this year’s event, placing financial strain on the club, however, an appeal supported by the Observer for sponsors has borne fruit.
Racing will begin in earnest at 8.30am on both days with 180 crews competing on Saturday and 171 on the Sunday. It finishes at around 5.30pm and 4.00pm on each day respectively.
The event attracts between 600 to 700 athletes, with the main regatta on 1,000m (1,093 yd) of river on the first day and a 500m (546.8 yd) sprint on day two.
Chairman of Evesham Rowing Club, Simon Edwards, said, “Come and support your local rowing squads – from junior scullers to veteran eights, this regatta showcases the full spectrum of our local rowing talent, aged 12 to 80!
“After last year’s washout and flooding which led to the cancellation of our much-loved annual showcase event, the sun is shining down on this year’s Regatta and we are ready and set to row.
“Bring your friends, your family, and your sunhat and come catch the action stroke by stroke.”
The Boathouse Cafe will be open all day and serve a variety of drinks and refreshments. A barbecue will also be running from around 11.30am to 2.30pm, offering grilled favourites.
The regatta is free to spectate and an event programme and parking costs £5.
For updates and more details, follow Evesham Rowing Club on social media or visit www.erc.club.
