International Crew Reception

All overseas crews along with their coaches and supporters are invited to the international crew reception and pasta supper on the Thursday evening before the regatta starts. The international reception is a fantastic opportunity to mingle with other overseas participants where you can truly enter the spirit of the regatta.

This very popular event is hosted by HWR Chairman Naomi Ashcroft, herself a multiple HWR winner and former world champion. The event begins with a short speech from a guest of honour; in 2025 this was double Paralympic champion cox and HWR Ambassador Erin Kennedy OBE. 

For many years the international reception has taken place at the River & Rowing Museum in Henley. Sadly, this closed in September 2025.

Plans for the 2026 event will be announced in due course, along with details of how to book.

If you’d like to register your interest in attending the 2026 International Crew Reception, please email hospitality@hwr.org.uk with your club/university/school name and likely number of athletes to be entering the regatta.