The Youth Boat Race to take place on 5 April 2025
Inspired by The Boat Race, the event will see eight crews from state schools across London race on the Championship course
The Youth Boat Race is a joint initiative between Fulham Reach Boat Club and The Boat Race Fund, with the aim to provide an opportunity for young rowers from local communities to become part of one of the most historic and high-profile sporting events in the world.
Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, the 2025 edition will see young rowers from across London take to the water, showcasing their skills after training through outreach programmes led by Fulham Reach Boat Club, Mossbourne Academy, London Youth Rowing and Barn Elms.
Jonny Searle MBE, Chairman of the Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Foundation expressed his enthusiasm: “We are delighted to continue working with Fulham Reach Boat Club to deliver such an exciting and ambitious event to support young people. Seeing the passion, teamwork, and commitment of the rowers is truly inspiring.”
The event features mixed crews of boys and girls competing in four matched races over the opening stretch of The Boat Race course, racing on a low water flood tide. The competition will be officiated by Boat Race umpires, Sarah Winkless and Ciaran Hayes.
At the conclusion of the races, all participants will be recognised for their efforts in an awards ceremony at Fulham Reach Boat Club. Medals will be presented by Her Worshipful The Mayor of the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, Councillor Patricia Quigley.
Adam Freeman-Pask, CEO of Fulham Reach Boat Club, emphasised the significance of the event: “We’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact this race has on young people. Being part of an event like The Boat Race is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we are proud to provide this platform for aspiring rowers.”
Erin Kennedy OBE, Paralympic Champion and Trustee of the Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Foundation added “The Youth Boat Race is a wonderful opportunity for young talent to demonstrate their tenacity and teamwork by competing on The Boat Race’s iconic stretch whilst also bringing together the local community. After such a successful event last year, it is fantastic to see so many young people be a part of the Youth Boat Race, from competing to designing the logo and branding.”
Funding for The Youth Boat Race 2025 is provided by The Boat Race Fund, which is managed by the trustees of the Oxford and Cambridge Rowing Foundation. The Youth Boat Race branding and promotional materials were co-designed with Youth Boat Race participants in collaboration with noohstudio, reflecting the innovative and inclusive spirit of the event.
The 2025 Chanel J12 Boat Race will be held on Sunday, 13 April 2025.
