On the 9th of November, Kingston Small Boats Head 2024 took place with schools and boat clubs from across the UK.
The race consisted of 2 divisions and took place from Hampton Court to Seven Ait, in Kingston, a distance of 5.2 km.
For those who are new to rowing, head season occurs from September to the middle of May, from which regatta season is initiated with NATS, the first regatta of the summer season.
If not to participate in the sport, attending rowing races is an enjoyable pastime entertained by many, especially parents of aspiring athletes.
Many may question the joy in sitting in a boat on a Saturday morning. However, NATS bronze medallist, Charlotte Hansmeyer stated,
"I really enjoy it because of the friendships I make that I usually wouldn’t have made without the sport, and I like the races because they allow us to show how hard we have worked and they are always rewarding, no matter the outcome."
When asked to describe the atmosphere in under 10 words the athlete described it as,
"buzzing, a bit tense, bustling, full of excitement."
If this has convinced you to spend your Saturday mornings at a change of scenery, do not hesitate to head to the river and cheer on your local rowing teams!
If you missed Kingston Small Boats Head, do not worry rowing heads and regattas occur all year long.
Upcoming heads include the following:
Fours Head on the 24th of November
Hampton small boats on the 30th of November
Walton small boats on the 14th of December
