Thameside 2 - 2026

This is a downstream race with mass class starts, starting in Reading and finishing at Bisham Abbey Sailing School.

Start and Check-in will be behind Reading Rowing Club on the south bank of the river near the Rivermead Sports Centre and Village Hotel and opposite Reading Canoe club (https://w3w.co/bounty.rock.large). The finish will be at Bisham Abbey Sailing School.

After the portage at Temple Lock, follow the flow of the river to the opposite side of the river (River Right), the finish line will be visible as you come round the corner.

Food, toilets and showers will be available at the finish location.

Approximate total distance: 17.2 miles, Portages: 7

Parking and Facilities

Pre-event: Limited parking near Reading Promenade or across Richfield Avenue. Please drop boats/paddlers at the Rowing Club (https://w3w.co/bounty.rock.large), then park elsewhere responsibly.

Post-event: The finish will be at Bisham Abbey Sailing School where parking, toilets, showers and food will be available.

Entry Details

• Online entry only – No entries after 12:00 PM, Saturday, 28th February 2026
• Standard entries: Until 23:59, Thursday, 26th February 2026
• Entry fees: £18 for seniors, £14 for juniors
• Late entries : £4 additional per seat
• Paddle UK Membership required
• The entry fee includes Thames Licences, refreshments, showers, and changing facilities

Classes

• Juniors: Under 19 on 1st January 2026
• Veterans: 35+ on 1st January 2026
• Junior/Veteran boats must include paddlers from both classes

Prizes: Prize giving will take place as soon as all results are in and confirmed. Prizes to first three in each category.

Race Day Schedule

08:30 Check-In opens
09:30 Check-In closes
09:30 Briefing
10:00 Slow doubles – odd numbers
10:10 Slow doubles – even numbers
10:15 Slow singles
10:50 Fast doubles
11:00 Fast singles
12:00 Finish window opens (arrivals before 12:00 will not be timed)