Statement regarding race entries

Following an investigation into our entries into Hammersmith and Quintin Heads of the River 2022, Thames Rowing Club were disqualified from both events and fined for our actions. We recognise the severity of these wrongdoings and fully accept the decisions made.

We wholly accept that our actions fell short of the required standards expected by our peers and our club. We have already paid our fines and have contacted both race organising committees to provide them with correct information and offer our sincere apologies for our actions.

We extend this apology to all those competitors affected by our actions and, in particular, to the worthy winners of the events - St Paul’s School and Shiplake College - who were denied their win on the day.

Despite a thorough review of all our internal systems and implementing an entirely new process to check regatta entries, it is a source of acute embarrassment to acknowledge that, out of our 14 crews entered at Wallingford Regatta, one was still incorrectly listed (W Club 4+). We would like to also apologise to the other crews in this event, particularly to the winners, Cantabrigian RC.

We stress that these were administrative errors with no intention to gain competitive advantage. Nonetheless, we understand how badly we have let down the wider rowing community, as well as our own athletes and members who are blameless.

We offer a full and unreserved apology to all those affected, and we will do all that we can moving forward to ensure 100% compliance.

Coaches and Captain of Thames Rowing Club