The Women’s Eights Head of the River Race (WEHoRR) returns to the Tideway this weekend. It is one of the most prestigious head races in the UK, attracting top crews from clubs, universities and international teams. Held annually on the River Thames, the race follows the 6.8km stretch from the University Pole in Chiswick to Putney Pier, so it is a huge test of skill and endurance for the crews involved. The race is a key test for rowers, providing a crucial measure of winter training progress before the summer regatta season begins. The Open Club category is no different, with five crews from three of the country’s top clubs battling it out for victory. Recent results are limited, with several Tideway head races cancelled this year, making it anyone’s race. All five crews will push themselves as hard as possible to win, ensuring an exciting day of racing for all involved.
Thames Rowing Club
Thames Rowing Club has been a dominant force in women’s rowing in recent seasons, and they will be looking to extend their winning streak this weekend. At the 2024 WEHoRR, they secured an impressive third place overall and won the Open Club category, finishing 17.4 seconds ahead of Molesey Boat Club. They will be returning to the Tideway with one goal- to defend their title.
Their success is reinforced by three consecutive victories in The Wargrave Challenge Cup at Henley Royal Regatta (2022 to 2024), proving their ability to perform at the highest level in head races and side-by-side racing. This season, Thames tested themselves against Cambridge University Boat Club in the 2025 Boat Race fixtures, narrowly winning their first piece by six inches but losing the second by a third of a length. Despite this, their consistency throughout recent seasons highlights the strength of their training programme, making them a crew to watch this weekend.
Molesey Boat Club
Molesey Boat Club, a High-Performance Centre with a rich history of success, will be eager to turn the tables on Thames Rowing Club this year. They finished second in the Open Club category at WEHoRR 2024 and will be looking to go one better this time around.
Their squad depth was on full display last season, with five crews reaching the semifinals at Henley Women’s Regatta, while their top eight placed ninth in the Women’s Championship Eights at the Head of the Charles. This season, they’ve already made their mark on the Tideway, winning the Women’s Championship Eights at Hammersmith Head, proving their ability to take on the Tideway.
With two boats entered in the Open Club category this year, Molesey’s internal competition could push both crews to even greater speeds. Will their ‘A’ crew have what it takes to finally dethrone Thames on home water?
Leander Club
Leander Club continues to be a powerhouse for women’s rowing, fielding both their ‘B’ and ‘C’ crews in the Open Club category. Their ‘B’ boat has already proven itself this season, finishing second to Leander ‘A’ in the Women’s Championship Eights at Head of the Trent—demonstrating the depth of their squad.
Recently, Leander’s ‘B’ crew took on Cambridge University Boat Club’s Blondie crew, where they won both races by a significant margin. This experience of racing on the Tideway could prove invaluable as they look to challenge Thames and Molesey for the top spot.
While specific results for Leander’s ‘C’ crew are limited, the club’s overall strength and depth suggest that this crew will be well-prepared and competitive. Leander’s consistent success across various categories is a testament to their rigorous training programmes and commitment to excellence. But will this stand the test against some extremely strong competition on Saturday?
Predictions
This weekend’s race is shaping up to be a closely fought battle between these five crews. All three clubs will have put in the miles throughout the winter, but with their recent success and the added motivation of defending their title, Thames Rowing Club enters as the favourite. Their proven track record in head races and regattas, combined with their deep knowledge of the Tideway, makes them the crew to beat.
However, Molesey Boat Club will be determined to close the gap, and Leander’s ‘B’ boat could spring a surprise if they carry their strong form into this race. One thing is certain: the Open Club category at WEHrRR will be fiercely contested, with no crew willing to back down.
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