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Head race cancelled? How stream and weather decisions are made

Heads on tidal and fast rivers are called off more often than people expect. Here is why, and how to plan for it.

By Civil Digital, the team building BoatLog · Last updated

BoatLog is independent software from Civil Digital. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by British Rowing or any organisation named in this guide. Always check the current official guidance and follow your club's own procedures.

Why races get cancelled

Organisers cancel or shorten races when conditions make racing unsafe: strong stream, high wind, storms or poor visibility. Several Tideway heads have been lost to weather in recent years. The organiser, working with the event's safety team and the navigation authority, makes the call.

How your club can plan

  • Watch the organiser's website and social channels in the days before.
  • Know the refund and re-entry rules before you enter.
  • Agree a cut-off for loading the trailer.
  • Have a plan B session at home.

Your own water

The same judgement applies at home. Your club's high-water rules and daily flag decide whether crews go out.

How BoatLog helps

BoatLog's safety flag shows every member the club's go/no-go decision at sign-out, and the rowing calendar lists this season's heads.

BoatLog screenshot with example club data: The club's flag tells every crew the day's decision before they sign out.
The club's flag tells every crew the day's decision before they sign out. Example data from a fictional club.

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Questions

FAQ

Why are rowing head races cancelled?

Usually for strong stream, high wind, storms or poor visibility that would make racing unsafe.

Who decides whether a head race goes ahead?

The organiser, with the event's safety team and the navigation authority.

Do you get a refund if a head race is cancelled?

It depends on the event's rules. Check them before you enter.

Related

Guide: UK rowing calendar 2026–27: the major heads and regattas The major UK rowing heads and regattas for the 2026–27 season, with each date marked published or expected, and what your club needs to prepare. Guide: What is a head race? A UK guide for rowers and clubs What a rowing head race is, how it differs from a regatta, how starts, timing and penalties work, and what clubs need to organise for one. Guide: Rowing in floods and strong stream: when to stop How rowing clubs decide whether to boat in high water: the warning signs, setting your own limits, and telling every member before they go out.

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