HENLEY-ON-THAMES – The University of Iowa women’s rowing team fell to Twickenham Rowing Club and Trentham Boat Club quad in the Princess Grace Challenge Cup on Thursday.

Tough and blustery conditions on the Thames again, did not make it an easy race for either boat, but the Hawkeyes raced Twickenham R.C. and Trentham B.C. to the finish line. Iowa came up 4 ½ lengths short in the dual.

For more information on draws, race times, and live streaming: https://www.hrr.co.uk.

First held in 1839, the event has been held annually ever since, with the exception of the years affected by the two World Wars and the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally staged by the mayor and people of Henley as a public attraction with a fair and other amusements, the emphasis rapidly changed so that competitive amateur rowing became its main purpose. The Regatta took place on a single afternoon but proved so popular with oarsmen that the racing lasted for two days from 1840. Today, the regatta is staged for six days, ending on the first Sunday in July.

The Henley Royal Regatta is “the most prestigious regatta in the world,” according to its website. Races are held on the River Thames, one of London’s main attractions.

QUOTING HEAD COACH JEFF GARBUTT

“I’m extremely proud of how our quad did an amazing job with the challenges out there today. The crew we faced was skilled and powerful. Our group fought hard until the very end and showed great effort. With all the experience this crew had, it was awesome to see them get one more run up the Thames. The 2024 season was one to remember and has moved our program forward. This group of Hawkeyes did a wonderful job and all of Iowa should be proud of their determination and grit. Go Hawks!”