Over 100 state school student athletes and volunteers from across London gathered on the sunny banks of the Thames for The Youth Boat Race 2025, inspired by The Boat Race.
Hosted at Fulham Reach Boat Club (FRBC) on Saturday 5th April 2025, it was a spectacular showcase of teamwork, opportunity, and the growing diversity within the sport of rowing.
Eight mixed crews from local schools participated in The Youth Boat Race 2025
Now in its second year, the event has expanded significantly following the success of last year’s pilot, thanks to generous support from The Boat Race Fund. The Youth Boat Race celebrates the power of access and inclusivity—bringing together crews from 64 state school students from across the capital who have started rowing through partnerships with Fulham Reach Boat Club, London Youth Rowing, and Barn Elms Boat Club.
Adam Freeman-Pask, CEO of Fulham Reach Boat Club, opened the event with a powerful welcome:
“Today isn’t just about racing—it’s about the opportunity to take part, make friends, build a community, and share the journey of these incredible young athletes taking to the water. This event, inspired by the iconic Boat Race, shows that rowing belongs to everyone. Whether you’re racing, supporting, or volunteering—thank you for being part of this journey.”
Following preliminary time trials along the start section of the historic Boat Race Championship Course, between the landmarks of Fulham Football Ground and Harrods Furniture Depository, the afternoon featured four side-by-side races cheered on by families, supporters, and crowds that gathered along the Fulham Reach river banks. Special guests were also in attendance including Councillor Patricia Quigley, Mayor of Hammersmith & Fulham, and Double Paralympic Champion and Boat Race Fund trustee, Erin Kennedy OBE.
In her moving speech at the medal ceremony, Kennedy spoke about the power of teamwork in rowing:
“Making the boat go fast isn’t about one standout individual—it’s about trusting each other, pulling together, and staying in sync. That’s what makes this sport special, and it’s what makes today so important.”
Mayor Patricia Quigley reflected on the growth of the Youth Boat Race since its inaugural event:
“This is about more than sport. It’s about creating opportunities for young people to support one another, to build confidence, and to be part of something bigger than themselves. It’s inspiring to see how far this event has come.”
Participating schools included:
Kensington Aldridge Academy, Cardinal Vaughn Memorial School, Hammersmith Academy, Sacred Heart High School, Fulham Cross Girls’ School, Holland Park School, Chelsea Academy, West London Free School, Mossbourne Academy, and Lady Margaret School, with many crews forming composites to ensure all had the chance to race.
Medals were presented to all participants, recognising effort and achievement equally—reinforcing the event’s mission: to make rowing accessible, inclusive, and empowering for all young people.