WORDS MIRIAM LUKE PHOTOGRAPHY SIMON DERVILLIER
The iconic Henley stretch of the River Thames is a pull for rowers throughout the world. To race down Temple Island in a side by side, head to head race, gladiatorial style, requires mental and physical fortitude and marks the pinnacle of many rowing athletes’ careers. Henley Women’s Regatta (HWR) is held on this stretch in June each year, two weeks before the more mature Henley Royal Regatta rolls into town. This year Henley Women’s celebrated their 30th regatta. Over the last three decades the event has grown exponentially from a one day event to three days of exciting racing for over 1800 women and girls. Rowers travel from as far as America, New Zealand and elsewhere to compete in events ranging from elite eights to the junior 16 quads and coxed fours.