At this time of the year, we would usually be putting details of the Thames Valley Trial Head here, and inviting you to make entries. This year, due to circumstances beyond our control, the Committee has decided in the best interests of all concerned, to cancel the event in February. However, we hope to run it in the Autumn, and will post further developments on this web site.
The reason for the cancellation is the state of the grassed areas surrounding the boathouse at Dorney Lake. Following the Olympic Regatta, the lawns from “the tree” (~1500m) to the Finish, and those on both sides of the boathouse, have been churned up, to the extent that they have now been ploughed, and will be re-turved or seeded. This means that in early February, none of these areas will be available for use. This just leaves the roadways, and the square hard standing car park.
We have looked hard, with our colleagues at Dorney Lake Services at the very limited options that remain for running an event. Whilst all the on-water aspects would be un-changed, there are very serious problems in accommodating a large number of boats, trailers, competitors and spectators in what we believe to be a safe and enjoyable way.
Challenging weather is always a risk at this time of the year. Adding to that existing challenge, the potential problems we could fore-see, made the risk of running an unsatisfactory event too high. We have therefore taken the decision to cancel. We have taken this early decision, so that you can make alternative plans.
We have high hopes of running a much delayed event in late November / early December, on exactly the same lines, and will keep you informed.
We hope that you will understand this decision, and look forward to seeing you either at the Regatta on June 15th/16th, in the Autumn, or in early 2014, when things will be back to normal.
