Each year, over the August Bank Holiday, the Ross Regatta attracts boat crews and spectators from all over the country.

Ross-on-Wye Rowing Club members are always happy to welcome visitors from far and wide but particularly welcomes support from local people too. They want as many local residents as possible to join them for this year’s Regatta. As well as all the incredible rowing action on the river, there is even more to take part in this year at the event.

There will be a new event this year – the Splash and Dash. This is for mixed groups of four which could include complete beginners, as well as experienced rowers.

The Regatta proper starts on Sunday, August 27th with Ross Masters and Juniors Sprints – The course is 550 metres downstream with a staggered start and finish.

The Open Regatta is on Bank Holiday Monday, August 28th – the course is 750 metres downstream with a staggered start and finish.

Racing starts at 8.30am on both days and awards will be presented as the results are known, rather than at the end of racing.

There will be several special races to be held during the Ross Regatta in memory of two esteemed members of Ross Rowing Club as well as a Victor Ludorum for the most successful club. The Paul Drinkwater Memorial Open 8s Plate and The Neil Coulson Memorial Ladies 8s Plate are intended to promote high quality side-by-side racing in memory of two former members. A Memento Plate and Regatta Pots will be awarded to the winning crews.

The Victor Ludorum prize will be awarded to the club which has accrued the most points competing during Monday’s Regatta. The prize is a fully refurbished 75kg Burgashell Single Sculling Boat.

There will be a BBQ and bar open throughout the weekend. The famous Ross Rowing Club Tea Tent will be open Sunday and Monday and breakfast will be available on Sunday and Monday mornings. Camping is free, although there is a £5 charge for car parking for the whole weekend, inclusive of a programme.

See lots more information about the Regatta in week’s edition of the Ross Gazette, or subscribe to our online edition here.