Masters World Rowing Regatta – Bled

Eleven masters rowers from Henley Rowing Club travelled to Slovenia to compete at the World Rowing Masters Regatta on the spectacular waters of Lake Bled.

For most of the squad, it was their first appearance at the event. The majority had come through Henley’s adult learn-to-row programme within the past decade, making the trip a memorable milestone in their rowing journeys.

The annual regatta is a global gathering, attracting more than 4,700 entries from over 51 countries, with nearly 1,000 races scheduled across five days. Competitors range from 27 to over 89 years old, racing across 13 age categories.

With former national squad athletes among the competitors, Henley’s rowers knew they faced formidable opposition. The opportunity to test themselves at this level, on one of rowing’s most famous and picturesque courses, was a compelling draw.

Storms disrupted the opening stages of the regatta, causing delays to the racing programme. After two days, however, the weather cleared and Lake Bled was bathed in sunshine for the remainder of the event.

Henley competed in 11 events across fours, quads, doubles and singles. The squad were pleased with their performances and thoroughly enjoyed the experience of racing alongside masters crews from around the world.

The club extends a warm thank you to Andrew Murray and the Reading Rowing Club squad for generously sharing their boats and on-site facilities, helping make Henley’s participation possible.

For a group whose rowing journeys largely began on the Thames at Henley, competing on the world stage at Lake Bled was an achievement to celebrate.