Despite our best efforts, it has not been possible to re-arrange this year’s regatta for an alternative date.  Once again we would like to thank everyone for their support for the regatta and to invite you all to the 180th Durham Regatta in June 2013

First time in Living Memory (and probably even longer than that) Bad weather leads to cancellation of Durham Regatta

Many thanks to everyone who has sent us messages of support, they are much appreciated.

The decision to cancel the Regatta on both Saturday and Sunday is unprecedented. This is a ‘first’ that none of us wanted. As far as anyone can tell, and we have one member who has  been to 59 Durham regattas, not even one day of the regatta has ever been lost before. Indeed, it previously took a world war to prevent the regatta from taking place.

The weather for a June weekend was truly awful. The rain was so concentrated that despite everyone’s best hopes, there really were no alternatives to calling the racing off. Along with our regrets to all would-be competitors, we have found it especially sad that we were unable to stage all the associated events that we had planned. The opportunities through Row for Gold for newcomers to try their skills on Ergos. The Parade, in memory of  Waterloo from Palace Green to the Riverbanks. The Founders Races. The chance for visitors to the city to experience the excitement of watching a regatta in full swing.

A special thank you to all our sponsors who  pledged  support, the volunteers who set their time aside to help run the event, the bands who agreed to play to entertain spectators and all the trade stalls who set up for a weekend of trading and went away empty handed.

But …. we will be back . Tomorrow (well probably next week) we start the planning for the 180th Durham Regatta – we look forward to seeing you there.

Dr Nigel van Zwanenberg, Chairman Durham Regatta, on behalf of the President and Members of Durham Regatta