Tragedy Strikes at Masters Head of the River Event
Crew member dies after requiring medical attention during race
Rowers entering the river for a previous race. Picture: Vesta Rowing Club
March 24, 2025
A competitor in a major rowing event on the Thames this Sunday (23 March) has died after being taken to hospital.
The Vesta International Masters Head of the River Race is a competition for veteran rowers with the course this year running from Chiswick Bridge to Putney Bridge.
According to the organisers, a member of a Masters E crew needed medical attention near Barnes Bridge. His crew mates abandoned the race to help transfer him to safety launch and provide first aid. He was then taken to hospital where he later died.
It is understood that the deceased was a member of a club which had travelled from Annecy in France to take part.
In a statement the Vesta Rowing Club said, “We understand that this incident was distressing for participants, volunteers, and spectators. If you've been affected by this incident, please do not hesitate to seek help and support from your GP or charities such as Samaritans, who can be contacted on 116 123.”
A spokesman for British Rowing said it was ‘deeply saddened’ by the death adding, “We are working to support the Organising Committee whilst the incident is being investigated. Our sympathies are with the family, crew, and everyone involved.”
The race, which is sometimes referred to as the Vets Head or the Masters Head, is an annual rowing event held on the Thames. Established in 1982 by Richard Burnett and Derek Dunckley of Vesta Rowing Club, it was conceived to provide veteran (now termed masters) rowers with a dedicated competition after the Men's Head of the River Race ceased accepting veteran entries due to capacity constraints.
Traditionally scheduled for the day following the Men's Head of the River Race, the Vets Head covers the Championship Course, spanning approximately 6.8 kilometres between Mortlake and Putney. The race direction depends on tidal conditions, ensuring optimal competition circumstances.
This year the start time was 10am with the river was closed from 9am to 12:00pm to facilitate the event.
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