NSR 2026 — Thank You

The racing is done. The memories aren’t.

Three days of racing at Dorney Lake, 5,500 young athletes, brilliant sunshine, and a finish line that reminded us all exactly why we do this. The 2026 National Schools’ Regatta is done ….. and it was one to remember.

Whether you were on the water, on the bank, behind a stopwatch, or driving a trailer up at first light — thank you. Every single one of you is the reason this event exists.

Have fun for the rest of the season and for those in the midst of public exams … the finish line is in sight!

Mike Martin

Chairman, National Schools’ Regatta

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2027

FRI 28 – SUN 30 May

DORNEY LAKE

Thank You – our incredible volunteers 

NSR is run delivered by volunteers; every umpire, every stake boat person, every commentator, every timing team member and even the bee keeper who arrived promptly to remove the swarm!

They give their time because they believe in junior rowing, and because events like NSR don’t happen any other way.

To everyone who volunteered this year: you made the racing happen. The starts were clean, the timing was accurate, the commentary kept families informed, and the water was safe. That’s all you.

A heartfelt thank you also to the parents and coaches who gave up their Bank Holiday Weekend, loaded and transported boats, fundraised for entries, and stood on the bank in the heat cheering on young competitors who worked hard to be there.

    To every Club and School that competed 

This year’s event brought together an extraordinary range of clubs and schools from across the country — from those with decades of NSR history to those making the journey for the very first time.

Twenty clubs and state schools took marquee space along the course this year, and we would love to see that number grow.

For every crews, simply reaching the start line at Dorney Lake represents months of early mornings, fundraising, and commitment from families and volunteers who make it possible. We want NSR to be a place where every young rower feels genuinely welcomed.

NSR Shop — still time to order

Did you miss the chance to pick up your NSR 2026 gear on site? The shop is still open!

Whether it’s the hoodie you meant to grab, a keepsake from a memorable race, or something for a young athlete who’d love a reminder of their weekend at Dorney — you can still order online. Every purchase puts money directly back into junior rowing.

Shop now here

Listening, learning, and looking ahead

We received a number of messages and letters following the event, and we are grateful for every one of them. Volunteer-run organisations grow by listening, and this year’s feedback has given us a great deal to reflect on.

We would really appreciate you taking the time to complete a feedback form  – this should only take 10 minutes of your time.  With feedback from those who attend the regatta, we will be able to make improvements.

Click here for the feedback form

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