News

Posted: 15 May 2025

The Scottish Rowing Spring Regatta returned to Strathclyde Park over Easter weekend, bringing together 680 competitors from 34 clubs across Scotland, England, and Ireland. With over half the crews (50.16%) comprising of women’s entries, the regatta showcased the depth and diversity of talent in UK rowing. The two-day event featured nail-biting finishes, standout performances, and a vibrant atmosphere both on and off the water.

The regatta attracted 22 Scottish clubs, 10 from England, and 2 from Northern Ireland, reinforcing its status as a premier early-season fixture. Despite blustery conditions on Saturday, crews embraced the challenge on the international-standard eight-lane course, originally built for the 1986 Commonwealth Games. Sunday brought calmer weather, allowing for smoother racing and thrilling finishes.

Jen Thomson, Chairperson of SRROC said, “It was wonderful to welcome back our regular competitors to Strathclyde Country Park but we were also very pleased to see some other clubs return to the regatta after a few years away. Despite the building work taking place and some strong winds on the Saturday, the friendly and enthusiastic spirit of all those involved shone through and we are looking forward to being back next month for the Scottish Rowing Championships.”

The regatta was a true celebration of competition across all ages and abilities, with the eldest competitor racing in the Masters I category for athletes aged 75–79—an inspiring testament to the sport’s lifelong appeal. Among the most hotly contested and well-attended events were the Open Novice 1x with 26 entries—won by T. Mitchell of Uni of St Andrews BC—and the Open R2 1x, featuring 23 scullers and won by his clubmate H. Bisset. Uni of St Andrews BC continued their dominance in the Women’s Novice events, with H. Marshall claiming victory in the Women’s Novice 1x (22 entries), while in the Women’s Novice 2x—another 22-entry field—the duo of West and Robertson brought home the win for Strathclyde Park Rowing Club.

The regatta saw eight races decided by less than one second, underscoring the fiercely competitive spirit and exciting racing on display throughout the weekend. With the closest race taking place in the OJ15 1x with only 0.28 second between Inverness RC’s Roxburgh in 4^th and Burden from George Watson’s Col BC in 5^th. Both boys also competed as part of the Scotland region team for JIRR the week prior. Here are the other thrilling showdowns that took place:

The regatta also served as the stage for the annual Scottish Student Sport (SSS) Championships, featuring fierce competition amoung the nine university rowing clubs from across Scotland. With valuable points on offer in designated SSS events, teams battled not just for medals, but for the coveted title of SSS Victor Ludorum. This year, the University of St Andrews emerged victorious, securing the top spot with an impressive 137 points. Glasgow University claimed second place, while University Rowing Aberdeen completed the podium in third.

Full results from the weekend can be found here.

No visit to the regatta would be complete without a stop at the event field featuring the Strathclyde Park Rowing Club Tea Tent. Famed for its home baking and the iconic “Danny Special” - a hearty bacon, sausage and steak roll - the tent provided warmth and sustenance to competitors and spectators alike. The aroma of freshly baked goods was a welcome comfort amid the weekend’s variable weather. Adding to the energy of the field were the stalls from Rival Kit and Square Blades, both popular suppliers in the rowing community. Competitors and spectators alike browsed rowing gear, apparel, and accessories.

A huge thank you goes out to the incredible team of volunteers, umpires, first aiders, and supporters whose tireless efforts made the 2025 Scottish Rowing Spring Regatta such a success. Special recognition is due to the Scottish Rowing Regatta Organising Committee (SRROC) for their expert coordination and months of behind-the-scenes planning. Heartfelt thanks also go to the dedicated staff from North Lanarkshire Council who braved the elements to drive the safety and umpire launches. Finally, a big salute to the RAF cadets, whose professionalism and good spirits on the stake boats helped keep racing fair, fast, and running on time—your contribution was invaluable.

With the Spring Regatta setting a high standard, attention now turns to the Scottish Rowing Championships, scheduled for June 7^th – 8^th, 2025. Clubs and athletes will be eager to build on their performances, with many eyeing national titles and selection opportunities. Entries are open, click here for more information.