HENLEY-ON-THAMES – The University of Iowa women’s rowing team fell to a strong Edinburgh University “B” boat, who posted the fastest time of the day in the Island Cup Challenge on Wednesday.

Tough conditions on the Thames did not make it an easy race for either boat, but the Hawkeyes fought Edinburgh until the very end. Iowa led EU through the barrier with a time of 2:09, which put them in the top three fastest crews during the first section of the race.

Iowa’s Quad will race Twickenham R.C. & Trentham B.C. on Thursday.  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 this group of women competed today on the water. They’ve done an incredible job of facing adversity this entire year and today was no different. Our nine women were aggressive and gutsy against a great boat. They represented the University of Iowa very well on this highly competitive stage.”