Henley Royal Regatta Course

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Henley Royal Regatta is a rowing event held every year on the river Thames by the town of Henley-on-Thames, England. It lasts for 5 days (Wednesday to Sunday) over the first weekend in July. Races are head-to-head knock out competitions, raced over a course of 1 mile, 550 yards (2,112 m). The regatta regularly attracts international crews to race. The most prestigious event at the regatta is the Grand Challenge Cup for Men's Eights, which has been awarded since the regatta was first staged.

As the regatta pre-dates any national or international rowing organisation, it has its own rules and organisation, wins are recognised as if those of other major regattas by British Rowing and FISA (the International Federation of Rowing Associations).

Olympic Regattas at Henley
During 1908 and 1948, when London hosted the Olympics, the Olympic races were held on the regatta course. The Olympic races in 2012 will be held at Dorney Lake in Eton, the only event to be held outside of London aside from sailing (which will take place at Weymouth).

[edit] Spectators

Temple Island — the start of the regatta courseThe racing can be viewed from a number of locations along both banks of the Thames. Areas open to the general public are generally on the Berkshire (towpath) side of the river. The other side of the river (Buckinghamshire) side is limited to the Phyllis Court club, private residences and areas for corporate entertainment.

[edit] Stewards' Enclosure
The enclosure situated on the Berkshire side, adjacent to the last part of the course and the finish line. It comprises two covered grandstands, a restaurant marquee, several bars, a bandstand and so on - all set in immaculately prepared lawns. It is only open to the Stewards of the Regatta, members of the Stewards Enclosure and their guests. Overseas competitors are also given the opportunity to purchase tickets.

The waiting list for membership of the Stewards Enclosure is several years long, shortened for people who have previously competed at the regatta, having grown rapidly since the 1970s, when membership could be applied for and granted on the same day. Guest tickets are the main benefit of membership.

The social position of the event means that some in the Stewards' Enclosure (and elsewhere along the course) may have no interest in the actual rowing.

The Stewards' Enclosure is also known for a strict enforcement of its dress code. Men are required to wear a "lounge suit, blazer and flannels, or evening dress, and a tie". Women are required to wear a dress or skirt that covers their knees, and are "encouraged to wear a hat".