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The National Schools’ Regatta has come a long way since Desmond Hill set it up in 1947. It’s ethos and relevance are as powerful now as they were to the Junior rowing population back then.
Desmond saw there was a lack of racing and set up his own invitational event to provide that racing. Now in the ‘post’ Covid era, National Schools’ Regatta once again is seen as the event that provides the best racing for Junior rowing in the UK and Ireland. Although the regatta will not be able to run at full capacity due to restrictions, a great event will still take place on the 29th and 30th of May 2021.
The team of volunteers at the regatta are proud of how the event has evolved. In 1947 only 4 boys Public School eights competed and the regatta was called the “Colts and third Eights Regatta”. Over time it grew to the point where the name was no longer reflective of what it was offering, so in 1964 it was renamed “National Schools’ Regatta”. The event found it’s spiritual home at Pangbourne in the Childe-Beale Estate. In order for the regatta to cope with the growing popularity the event moved to the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham in 1973. There it remained until the move in 2016 to the London 2012 Olympics venue, Dorney Lake.
Having started it’s days as a one day event targeted at 3rd 8+ and J16 8+, over time it has come to support both boys and girls crew, Junior 14 to Junior 18 age groups and range of boat classes. In 1979the Committee offered a girls event, the 4+ and inn 1985 the girls 1x was added.
For 2021 we now have parity across events between boys and girls.
Summary of Entries
Desmond Hill passed away in 1984 and was aware of how the event had evolved, we are sure he would be immensely proud of the event it continues to develop. It is still in the event’s DNA to provide the Junior rowers of the British Isles with a first class racing experience.
We will not be able to run a full regatta this year for many reasons, but it is our motivation as a Committee to continue to offer a spectacular event that the competitors will enjoy and treasure. We hope NSR2021 will be s true light at the end of the tunnel for all those who have been coaching and training on Zoom for what feels like an eternity.
Breakdown of 2021 Entries
We will not have spectators this year. In order to help parents and supporters watchthe competitorsracing, we will be offering live streaming on YouTube. if you feel like you would like to make a gift to support the Live Streaming and Commentary, please do go to the National Schools’ Regatta website and donate a few pounds.
We look forward to seeing you soon, and thank you for your support.
National Schools‘ Committee, 2021