Urban side-by-side racing returned to East London with Poplar Regatta

Congratulations to University of London BC and to Thames RC, who were the winners of the Victor Ludorum for Open and Women respectively

Poplar Regatta returned to the London Regatta Centre on 14 May 2023 after a 12-year hiatus. The event attracted clubs and schools from all over the country, who competed in a variety of junior and senior races, from singles to octuples, in almost perfect conditions, with no wind and plenty of sunshine.

The regatta was back at the Royal Albert Dock, next to London City Airport. The dock provides a unique setting for the event, with its stunning views of the city skyline. The location also made it easy for spectators to get to, with good transport links available, including an airport.

Over the course of the day 70 races were scheduled and the spectators were treated to some fantastic racing with some very close finishes. It was recorded that some of the best crews finished the 2,000-meter course in under six minutes.

Re-establishing a regatta after such a long period was no easy task. Many of the organising committee reflected that it was almost like starting from scratch. However, the regatta was a success thanks to the hard work of many volunteers and supporters, including British Rowing. This work was helped on the day by beautiful weather. Much of the thanks for the outcome of the day was down to the hard work of the volunteers, the regatta committee, the support of the umpires and special mention should go to Simon Goodey and his team at the London Regatta Centre. All took a leap of faith that athletes would return to East London. And indeed, they did! The feedback from them and their coaches was very positive and encouraging, many expressing that they are looking forward to competing in 2024 again.

The full results of the 2023 Poplar Regatta Victor Ludorum were:

Open	Women
1st University of London BC 2nd Lea RC 3rd Vesta RC	1st Thames RC 2nd University of London BC 3rd Godolphin and Latymer School BC

For detailed results and more photos visit poplar-regatta.org.

The organizing committee of Poplar Regatta expressed their gratitude to all the volunteers who worked behind the scenes to ensure the success of the event.

“We really need to pay tribute to the huge numbers of volunteers that make Poplar Regatta happen,” said regatta secretary Chris Kendall. “From the umpires through to all the club members working in the background, your hard work and dedication is essential to the success of the regatta.”

Poplar Club Captain Dan Bartlett added, “The regatta shows the breadth of talent and skills we have in the club. Working hand-in-hand together brings the whole club together and makes the regatta a special day in our calendar. We’re looking forward to next year already!”

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