Rowing conference on sport’s development at River & Rowing Museum
A key conference debating the future development of the sport will take place at Henley’s River & Rowing Museum this November
Racing at the British Rowing Offshore Championships (c) Tom Hurley
The River & Rowing Museum has announced a fascinating line-up of speakers and topics for its biennial conference at Henley on Thames on Saturday 16 November.
As part of the conference, the Museum will host a key debate on the future development of the sport, entitled ‘Rowing Futures’.
Home to the world’s largest collection of rowing artefacts, the Museum’s flagship international rowing gallery features the iconic Sydney IV in which Sir Steve Redgrave won his fifth Olympic gold medal – and offers the perfect location to host this thought-provoking conference.
The conference will explore how rowing in the UK pushes boundaries – increasing diversity, encouraging the growth of indoor rowing and inspiring the next generation of Olympians and Paralympians.
Sessions will include an exclusive insider’s view on the GB Rowing Team’s preparation for Tokyo 2020 from Brendan Purcell, British Rowing Director of Performance.
Guin Batten, Olympic medallist and Chair of the Women’s Head of the River Race, will explore how competitive rowing is embracing new formats such as beach sprints and adaptive rowing.
As the Museum celebrates its 21st year, rowing journalist and historian Chris Dodd – a founder member – will take a tour of its history through key objects.
Sessions will include an exclusive insider’s view on the GB Rowing Team’s preparation for Tokyo 2020
River & Rowing Museum Director Dr Sarah Posey said: “The River & Rowing Museum houses a rowing collection of international significance, so it’s fitting that we’re the place to encourage debate about the sport.
“As part of our 21st anniversary, the conference will take inspiration from the past to engage people in its future. Special half-price tickets for under-30s will encourage a new generation to join the conversation.”
British Rowing Chair Mark Davies said: “The sporting landscape is changing and so is rowing, so it is fantastic that the River & Rowing Museum will be bringing people together to talk about the future development of the sport.
“With an excellent line-up of speakers, I’m sure it will be a fantastic event for everyone.”
The River & Rowing Museum acknowledges with warm thanks the generous support of Clive Radley towards the conference.
Find out more, including how to get tickets here.
