The Head of the River Race is one of the classic races on the rowing calendar, a warm up for the Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race that follows the exact same course backwards, from Mortlake to Putney along the Thames. There are 420 crews in all, rowing down the 4.25 mile course, testing their willpower and teamwork in this uniquely macho sport. It is also a particularly nice stretch of the river, so even if you are not that excited by rowing, this is a really nice spot to enjoy a walk or a pint, and watch the boats glide past - though tides have dictated that this year's race is horribly early in the morning.
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The Head of the River Race is one of the classic races on the rowing calendar, a warm up for the Oxford vs. Cambridge Boat Race that follows the exact same course backwards, from Mortlake to Putney along the Thames. There are 420 crews in all, rowing down the 4.25 mile course, testing their willpower and teamwork in this uniquely macho sport. It is also a particularly nice stretch of the river, so even if you are not that excited by rowing, this is a really nice spot to enjoy a walk or a pint, and watch the boats glide past - though tides have dictated that this year's race is horribly early in the morning.