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We look forward to seeing you for the 160th Bedford Amateur Regatta – 9th May 2026.

New Racing Format for 2026

As a Regatta Committee, we are always looking for ways to improve the competitor experience at Bedford Regatta. In a world that is increasingly busy, we are also considering how we can organise the event so that competitors can manage their day more efficiently.

As a result, we have decided to divide the day into two separate divisions, following the example of many other regattas. This approach allows crews to finish racing without needing to remain at the event for the entire day. It also reduces the issue of doubling up, as crews may enter only one event in each division. We hope this will help prevent delays beyond the published finish time while we wait for the final races to be completed.

The new structure has allowed us to introduce a new event for 2026, the Open and Women’s College Coxed Fours, which will run under the same rules as College Eights and will take place in the afternoon division.

The results of the 2025 regatta can be found HERE.

Photographs from the day are available from AllMarkOne (www.allmark.one.com) the regattas official photographer.

Bedford Amateur Regatta founded in 1853 brings competitive rowing to the picturesque River Great Ouse in Bedford maintaining its position as one of the largest single day river regatta in the country. Racing takes place through the heart of the town over a 1,200 metre course with races every two minutes and competitors coming from far and wide representing Schools, Colleges and Clubs.  Events are offered for fours and eights across all categories from J14 upwards including Novice and Senior.

Organised by a Committee with representation from all the rowing clubs in the Town, the event continues to be one of the key social events in the Town’s calendar with parents, supporters and competitors enjoying the atmosphere of the Regatta enclosure close to the Suspension Bridge.

Over the years the event has played host to many of the country’s up and coming top rowing athletes with many going on to win Olympic and World Championship medals.

We hope that however you are involved with the Regatta you have an enjoyable and successful experience.

Bedford Regatta 2022 courtesy of Piotr Lesiak.

The regatta poster has been updated to reflect the events to be offered this year.