Henley Royal Regatta - Henley on Thames July 2006 Report and pics by Seymour Swift, additional pics by Martin Roberts & Jeff Way

When we think of the great British occasions a number of summer events spring to mind, including Wimbledon, Ascot and of course the Henley Regatta. We spent last weekend at this event, I have never seen so many ladies in smart summer dresses and hats - and that was just the ralliers and marshals. They could show the locals a thing or two when they turned out in all their finery, the men were not be outdone either with their straw hats and blazers. They do scrub up well those SOC lot.

A brilliant site within walking distance of all the weekend's events, so a gentle stroll led us to sample the atmosphere of this annual event and watch the rowers working hard to win their races. It was tiring just watching them, I did not see an SOC team but I may have missed them.

We were treated to a delicious traditional British tea on the Saturday afternoon - scones, jam and cream together with fresh strawberries, washed down with a glass (or two) of Pimms. There were not many ralliers who did not attend tea, and I cannot blame them it, was well worth it.

Saturday evening we saw one of the best firework displays I have ever seen. Some stayed at the caravans and watched others went to the riverside. Wherever you watched, the view was superb.

Sunday morning at flag you had a job to see because of the number of brollies that were up, no it wasn’t raining it was hot and sunny. It was the only way you could get into the shade. (How do these marshals know what the weather is going to like when they first agree to put the event on at least a year in advance?) As well as celebrating the regatta we had another celebration. It was Wayne & Andrea James' 100th rally. Pictured below you can see them receiving a commemorative plaque from their area committee member Paul Philips.

A brilliant rally, a good venue, lots to see, with superb weather and good company, what more could you want. If this rally is repeated you really should go, this one was great, you don’t know what you’ve missed.

My grateful thanks to the marshals Ted, Pat, Ron and Maureen together with the assistance given by Keith and Val we all appreciated your hard work and when you agree to do it all over again can I book a pitch please?

Seymour Swift

Click on the image to enlarge