Upper Thames Autumn Head 2026
(UTAH)
Sunday 25th October 2026
UTAH 2026 – Event Cancellation Announcement
It is with deep regret that we announce the cancellation of UTAH 2026 due to worsening weather conditions and forecast increases in wind speeds on Sunday, despite the expected sunshine.
After careful consideration, we have made this difficult decision today, taking into account the safety risks associated with travelling with trailers, gusts over both land and water, and marshalling concerns. Having assessed all these factors, we have concluded that the conditions exceed our acceptable safety limits.
Regarding refunds, although some event costs have already been incurred, we will endeavour to reimburse a proportion of the entry fees. Further details regarding refunds will be communicated in due course.
We fully appreciate how disappointing this announcement will be for everyone involved, particularly those who have invested considerable time, effort and expense in preparing for the event. This decision has not been taken lightly, but the safety of all participants, officials and volunteers must remain our highest priority.
Thank you for your understanding and support. We sincerely hope to welcome you all back next year under safer and more favourable conditions.
UTAH Organising Committee
23/10/26
UNDER BR RULES
Course approximately 3000m upstream
(from Hambleden Lock to Lion Meadow / Phyllis Court)
Sunday 25 October 2026
Competitors are encouraged to enter the morning and afternoon divisions.
UPDATED 21 OCT: Final start order
UPDATED 18 OCT: Competitor Instructions
UPDATED 18 OCT: 2026 Event safety plan
Updated 18 OCT: Live results
Race conditions: Current view from the organisers at 21 OCT: The forecast for Sunday is looking favourable, with sunny and potential windy conditions following the predicted heavy rain and blustery conditions on Friday.
We will continue to monitor the weather forecast and provide updates if conditions change.
Ground conditions at Lion Meadows will be wet underfoot. Please take care.
Course map
EVENTS AND PRIZES
1. A range of events are offered as per the table below and there is no restriction on doubling up between the morning and afternoon divisions (no other events will be offered).
2. Masters will be arranged by age categories and events will be handicapped, if appropriate.
3. Start orders will be guided by BR crew ranking points
4. Medals will be presented in events in which two or more crews start. The Peter Sutherland Bowl will be awarded to the fastest open crew of the day. The Diane Sutherland Bowl will be awarded to the fastest women’s crew of the day. The Truman Victor Ludorum Cup will be presented to the most successful visiting club (1 point per win).
ENTRY FEE: £20.00 per seat (coxes excluded).
Entries should be made via the BROE2 online system – payments must be made immediately. The first 175 paid crews in each division will be accepted. Any further paid crews will be moved to the waitlist.
- Unpaid crews will also be moved the waitlist
- Refunds not available after the close of entries
- Crew changes to be made on BROE by clubs before racing starts
- All boats require bow number slots and please be advised a charge of £15 will be payable for non-return of numbers.
Entries open at 14:00 on 1st October 2026 & close on Friday 18.00 16th October 2026
Any questions or queries can be sent by via WhatsApp, to Rachael Haycock 07769 299259.
For further details please visit our FB page: @upperthamesautumnhead or follow upper_thames_autumn_head on Facebook or Instagram.
Information for crews including safety, risk assessment, crew marshalling is provided on the UTRC website. Car parking will cost £10 per car but is free of charge for boat trailers. Car sharing is encouraged. Use of the parking and boating area at Lion Meadow is by kind permission of Henley Royal Regatta.
Use of the starting area is by kind permission of Copas Farms.
RESULTS
2024 /2023 - no event
2020 - no event