“The Henley Royal Regatta is surely one of the world’s great events ...and not just for the rowing. The opportunity to see English ‘polite society’ on display provided nearly as much entertainment as the excellent racing,” wrote G. G. Parker from MIT. This curious mix of society and sport, with an international context is rediscovered anually by American crews venturing to Henley Royal Regatta.

There is a unique energy and confidence amongst crews from the States. Undertaking a 5,000 mile journey — or longer — filters all but the most serious contenders. Last year Harvard and University of California, Berkely were victorious in the Ladies Plate and Temple Challenge Cup events.

A focal point for US crews is the boathouse on the finish line proudly displaying the United States and Virginia Tech flags. Charmed by the beauty of Henley, Brian Flattery has lived there for ten years. “I often get a kick out of people asking me ‘why would an American live over here?’ Why wouldn’t I? If this isn’t paradise, I want to see it,” he says. As we sip Coke in the sun and watch crews paddling below us, who can argue?

Whenever possible he hosts an Independence Day party, inviting American crews to participate. “We read the Declaration of Independence and throw tea into the Thames at 1:30 p.m. on July 4th…. it’s all done in good sport. We always have an Englishman read the Declaration so we have the proper accent,” he laughs.

One glance at these houses reminds one of the international aspect of the event. His neighbour flies the Union Jack from an oversized flagpole and I imagine the friendly rivalry between the two on finals day. In his mind there is no doubt. “Part of what I think makes a sporting convention exciting is that you have so much variety, with so many parameters and nations.”

For American crews Henley Royal Regatta is a big deal. The university crews peak for their domestic races, but travelling to Henley is the highlight of their season. The Boston University Women’s eight arrived a month ago, participating in Reading and Women’s Henley before this week. “This is definitely the highlight of our season. It’s a Mecca for any rower,” says crew member Veronika. “We come from Boston where we have the Head of the Charles, the largest head race in the world. There’s a lot of people there, but nothing like this. The tradition makes it more special. Rowing-wise it’s a dream,” adds team mate Leanne.

Yet for all its charm, Henley is a small town, which sometimes falls short. “The town is beautiful, but you can’t get an ice cream here after 9 p.m.,” says Jenny from the BU crew.

Boston University women’s crew is competing in the Remenham Challenge Cup. Trinity Hartford, Stanford, Harvard and Cornell and California Rowing Club are also competing at the 2008 Regatta.

By Michael Valli


Published on 06 July 2008 by the Henley Standard, Henley on Thames, Oxfordshire.