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Hurley Regatta 2025: Race Line-Up & Descriptions
Welcome to the ultimate splash-fest on the Thames! Whether you’re a seasoned paddler, brave bath-sailor, or just in it for a laugh and a wobble – there’s a race here for everyone. Below you’ll find the full run-down of every craft taking to the water this year. Ready? Let’s race!
🛁 Bath Races:
Teams of 4 pile into 2 actual baths strapped together (yes, really). These sink-or-swim sprints are a straight dash to the finish line.
• Mixed Ages: 2 adults + 2 children (10–17 years)
• Adults Only: All 16+
• Safety Note: Buoyancy aids are mandatory.
• Sunken baths will be scooped up and disqualified. Sorry, no submarine entries!
🛶 Canadian Canoe Races:
Paddling pairs (and some solos) take on the river in classic canoes. Some races include turning buoys – clockwise turns only, mind!
• Little & Large: 1 adult + 1 child (5–17)
• Damsel in Distress: Knight (18+) rescues a Damsel (10+) who does not paddle
• Doubles (Men’s / Women’s / Mixed): 2 adults
• Singles (Men’s / Women’s): Solo paddlers (18+)
Children must wear buoyancy aids. Adults – it’s up to you, but wise to wear one!
🐍 Cobra Kayak Races:
Fast and nimble, Cobra kayaks are perfect for speed demons. All Cobra races are straight to the finish – no turns, just full throttle.
• Little & Large: 1 adult + 1 child (5–17)
• Junior Double: 2 children (10–17)
• Adult Double: 2 adults (18+)
• Singles: Children (10–13), (14–17) and Adults (18+)
Buoyancy aids are mandatory for under 18s.
⛵ Dinghy Races:
Grab your oars and test your technique! All Dinghy races are straight sprints to glory.
• Coxed Dinghy: 1 adult rower + 1 cox (5+)
• Junior, Men’s & Women’s Singles: 1 rower per boat
Under 18s must wear buoyancy aids.
🏄 Giant Paddle Board Races:
Picture four people wobbling in unison on a giant SUP. That’s the vibe here – a hilarious balancing act to the finish.
• Mixed Ages: 2 adults + 2 children (10–17)
• Children’s Race: All 10–17
• Adults: 18+
Buoyancy aids required for all.
🦩 Inflatables Race:
Arguably the most ridiculous – and therefore most loved – race of the day! Bring your best pool floatie (no boats, no paddles).
• Singles & Teams: 10+ years and up
• Inflatables Allowed: Beds, unicorns, flamingos, sofas… surprise us!
• Start: Mass splash-in on the starter’s signal
Wet suits optional, buoyancy aids not!
🚣 Katakanu Races:
Stable, fun and great for group paddling, Katakanus are the regatta’s big-team beauties.
• Mixed Ages: Teams of 6 (at least 2 adults, kids 5–17)
• Adults Only: Teams of 6 (16+)
Under 18s must wear buoyancy aids.
🛠️ Raft Race:
Our bespoke floating contraptions hit the water with teams of 4 (2+ adults). It’s a straight race to the finish – full details in a separate guide!
🏄♂️ Standard Paddle Board Races:
SUP lovers – time to shine! These races are straight paddles with standing optional (but encouraged!).
• Juniors: 10–13 and 14–17
• Men’s & Women’s Adults: 18+
Everyone wears a buoyancy aid. Safety first!
🤼 Novelty Races (All on Giant SUPs):
🔗 Tug-O-War
Two teams, one rope, and the most absurd battle for balance ever seen on water.
• Teams of 4 (18+ only) – First team pulled backwards loses!
🥊 Wack Attack Gladiators
Armed with inflatable bats, opponents battle it out atop a giant paddle board.
• 10–13yrs / 14–17yrs / Adults (18+)
• No wrestling – it’s bat-to-bat only!
• Last person standing wins – or whoever gets back on board first!
Let the splashing, paddling and giggling commence!
Have questions? Need kit? Check our Race Day FAQs or ask one of the friendly marshals on the day.