Reading University Head 2023

The Boat Club has held its own Head of the River since 1935. Hundreds of crews race over the 4.6km course, finishing at our boathouse in Caversham. As well as being a fantastic event with crowds lining the bank, it’s also a rewarding opportunity for the students, who are integral to the organisation of the race. The funds raised from the event go directly to purchasing new boats for RUBC.

This year was extra special, as for the past three years the event has been cancelled due to either flooding or Covid. Organising and racing in the event was a new experience for all the RUBC students and they rose to the occasion magnificently. Students have a range of roles on the day, which include: laying the marker buoys on the course, managing the parking of the boat trailers, distributing the race numbers, and hosting a tea event for alumni and supporters of RUBC. Before they all leave (to get ready for the formal dinner) they tidy the site and leave it looking great.

The race itself went extremely well, with conditions proving ideal. As well as some very strong performances from the RUBC crews other clubs who showed to be on good form were Oxford Brookes University, Leander Club, London Rowing Club, Shiplake College & Hartpury College.

We were thrilled to be able to welcome so many aluni back to the event, and many of them gave their time helping. Peter (RUBC president 1976) was one of the Umpires and Matt (RUBC men’s captain 1996) & Charles (RUBC president 2021) were both part of the official timers.

The students enjoyed hosting “Tea by the Thames” for the alumni and supports (notably “the Friends of the University”) and the crews really appreciated their cheers as they raced passed.

Our next race is on Saturday 4th March 2024.