ROWERS from King’s Ely are going head to head with former pupils in the school’s second annual regatta on Saturday (12).

The King’s Ely eight will take on the Old Eleans in the best of three 500 metre races from the rail bridge to the road bridge. Families, friends and members of the public are welcome to support the crews and stay for the reception afterwards.

The regatta will take place on the stretch of river where King’s Ely and Cambridge University students row, which is also where the Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race was held in 1944. It was the only time in the race’s 150 year history that the boat race has not been held on the River Thames, as London was deemed too dangerous during World War II.

Head Rowing Coach at King’s Ely, Liam Smith, said: “Rowing is such a strong tradition at King’s Ely and it is great to be able to bring former pupils back to relive their childhood experiences and meet the next generation of Old Eleans.”

The regatta will start at around 2pm and will be followed by drinks at The Boathouse restaurant and pub, where all spectators are welcome. Parking will be available on the Amherst school field, which is within walking distance from the footpath from which the race can be viewed.

The Old Eleans’ Club is also holding its annual reunion on Saturday, starting with tours of the Old Palace from 6.30pm, a Drinks Reception at 7pm followed by the speaker, Harry Sidebottom. A hot buffet supper will then be served in the school’s Monastic Barn. Evening tickets are still available. For more information or to book, please email RosieHolliday@kingsely.org or call 01353 660700.

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