Henley Dragon Boat Club has now established the Henley Winter Series (HWS) as the winter dragon boating event in the UK.

The Series comprises of 4 long distance time trials over a circular race course of approximately 7km, with a turn around an island at each end of the course. The turns and staggered start provide exciting racing for the crews and an unexpected spectacle for members of the public enjoying a peaceful Sunday morning stroll along the River Thames.

The events take place on Sunday mornings, allowing ample time for crews to sample some of Henley's pubs for Sunday lunch and celebrations afterwards.

The first ever HWS event was held on 21st November 2004, with 80 paddlers and 5 crews racing in thick fog round the 7.5km circular course. Since then the event has grown in popularity with the first event of the 2006/7 Series attracting 13 crews and over 250 competitors.

Prizes are awarded for the:

In 2006 Henley Dragons were awarded the BDA President's Award for their contribution to British dragon boating through the instigation of the Henley Winter Series and the concept of the Henley Junior Regatta, which became reality in 2007.

Event Format

For anyone who is not familiar with the event, the Series will comprise 4 long distance dragon boat time trials. Crews can elect to attend any number of races in the Series. The circular race course will be approximately 7km, with a turn around an island at each end of the course. Crews will be set off from a rolling start at timed intervals. Events will take place on Sunday mornings, allowing ample time for crews to sample some of Henley's pubs for Sunday lunch and celebrations afterwards.

For a complete summary of previous years click here.

Dates

Due to the chance that the river may be on red flow alert at some point over the winter, we are publishing five dates, including one contingency date in case we have to cancel events due to the conditions. The dates for the series will be:

Rules and Entry Forms

HWS Revised Rules
HWS Entry Form - Conditions
HWS Entry Form
HWS Parental Consent Form