The Great River Race

Sept 14, 1pm–6pm

The traditional boat championship, comprising a race of 21.6 miles from the London Docklands to Ham. More than 330 crews from all over the world will come to take part, many in fancy dress, making this a fun event for all the family.

From its debut in 1988, The Great River Race now has firmly established itself in the sporting calendar to such an extent that experienced crews describe it as a classic event - the one they all want to win.

And with its intriguing mix of colour, spectacle, intense competition and casual fun, it combines all the ingredients that made London's 'other' marathon such a success; but with the addition of dozens of great photo opportunities as the race progresses from the striking Docklands skyline at the start, through central London until it reaches its semi-rural Surrey conclusion.

The Great River Race attracts both the true racer and the leisure rower and, in developing into 'London's River Marathon', is doing for rowing what the 'Road Marathon' did for running.