The Henley Mile open water swimming festival – based around the 1 mile downstream River Thames swim, held over the Henley Royal Regatta course – has been confirmed for 13 July 2014. According to the organisers, Henley Swim Events, the event is ‘not to be missed by any open water swimming enthusiast, from beginner to competitive athlete.’
The Henley Mile, from the creators of the Henley Classic, takes place over the beautiful and historic Henley Royal Regatta boomed course at the Temple Island Meadows. This year, the route has been reversed to take place in a straight line, downstream, creating ‘the perfect conditions for those hoping to post a new personal best.’
If a mile sounds a little ambitious, a Henley Half is also on offer, again taking place over a straight course, downstream.
On the July race weekend, the H2Open Suits versus Skins challenge seeks to determine, once and for all, the performance impact of wetsuits compared to more traditional swim attire and the Temple Island Sprints are set to become a spectator favourite with swimmers competing over 100m ‘to become the Usain Bolt of the water.’
Jeremy Laming, co-founder of Henley Swim, said “The event really will be a celebration of open water swimming, offering something for everyone. Although some of the challenges are sure to attract a highly competitive field, there are also opportunities for charity swimmers and corporate teams to get involved. The emphasis is on creating a fun, friendly event which places the River Thames at the heart of the activities.”
All this open water fun is not just for adults. Young swimmers aged 8 to 14 years are also being encouraged to get involved. The Henley Mile or the Henley Half can be competed as a family; or youngsters can go solo in either the Henley Quarter or the Henley Splash (200m).
Jeremy added “The interest in open water swimming is growing across the UK. We are expecting to build on the tremendous popularity of last year’s event and are looking forward to welcoming some old friends as well as welcoming some new ones. The July 13 event is going to be the biggest, most accessible, open water swimming event in the country, and I can’t wait.”
