Competition Begins: Focus on the British Rowing Beach Sprint Championships and 'Lea Mans' Event
This weekend promises an action-packed spectacle for rowing enthusiasts, as two major events – the Lea Mans and the British Rowing Beach Sprint Championships – take place concurrently.
In the heart of the Eastern and Thames regions, the third running of the Lea Mans event will take place on the River Lea. This unique event, designed for recreational rowers, has grown significantly since its inception three years ago as part of the Thames Valley Explorer League (TVEL). The event now comprises three thrilling phases, each adding to the fun for the participants.
Local rivalries will be on display, with Eton Excelsior RC and Weyfarers RC going head-to-head. Meanwhile, clubs from further afield, such as Spitfire BC and Hornets RC, will compete for the first time, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
The Lea Mans event requires crews to run from the start line to their boats, before embarking on a series of challenges. These include a boat race, quoit collection, slalom section, pirouette, halt and go, crew swap, downstream time trial, and side by side finals.
Meanwhile, at Knoll Beach, the British Rowing Beach Sprint Championships will be taking place from 30-31 August. This year, the event is set to host a record number of rowers, including World and National Champions, Four Nations Series winners, and first-time competitors. The British Rowing Beach Sprint Championships is being supported by Swift Racing UK.
The Organizing Committee has moved the racing to Knoll Beach due to the weather forecast, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants. The event promises to be a showcase of rowing talent, with the PEUGEOT TotalEnergies team with the PEUGEOT 9X8 cars #93 (Di Resta/Jensen/Vergne) and #94 (Duval/Jakobsen/Vandoorne) competing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans III weekend.
Away from the competitive action, the British Rowing Beach Sprint Championships will also provide an excellent opportunity for newcomers to the sport to try their hand at rowing. With the support of experienced rowers and the exciting atmosphere, it could be the perfect chance to discover a new passion.
As the weekend approaches, anticipation is building for these two exciting events. Whether you're a seasoned rower or a curious spectator, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your rowing gear and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of competition and camaraderie!
