Bishops Rowing Tour
22 October 2026
Bishops Rowing Returns from the 61st Head of the Charles Regatta
Bishops Rowing has returned home from the 61st Head of the Charles Regatta after a remarkable 12-day tour that will live long in the memory of both the boys and staff. The 1st and 2nd VIII squads, accompanied by Mr Hale, Mr Burton, and Mr Breytenbach, were fortunate to experience all that Boston has to offer during the spectacular New England fall season.
Throughout the tour, the boys were outstanding ambassadors for both South Africa and Bishops. They carried themselves with humility, enthusiasm, and pride, spreading positivity wherever they went and leaving a lasting impression on members of the global rowing community.
The exposure that the Head of the Charles provides for our rowing programme is invaluable. Training and racing alongside some of the world's best school, university, and club crews offers a unique opportunity to measure ourselves against international standards. Boating from Harvard University and sharing preparation spaces with elite athletes from across the globe is an unforgettable experience. In the lead-up to the world's largest three-day rowing regatta, crews quite literally brush shoulders with competitors from every corner of the rowing world.
Our crews performed superbly against exceptionally strong international competition. The Youth Eight finished 52nd, improving by 18 positions from Bishops' previous appearance in the event. The Under-17 Four placed an excellent 25th, while the Youth Double finished 52nd.
While the results are something to celebrate, the true value of the tour lies in the experience gained, the friendships formed, and the inspiration drawn from competing at one of the sport's most iconic events. We are incredibly proud of the way our boys represented Bishops and South African rowing on the world stage.