The scene is set for the 64th Yachtmaster Insurance Three Rivers Race taking place this weekend (31st May/1st June) as some 119 competitors make their way to Horning on the Norfolk Broads for the start of the ultimate inland endurance challenge.
Starting from 11am at Horning Sailing Club, boats start in groups of between five to fourteen boats at five-minute intervals across fifteen starts to race around 50 miles of the Norfolk Broads - the Rivers Bure, Ant and Thurne to Ludham Bridge, South Walsham, Hickling Broad and the Lower Bure. Competitors choose their own route given the wind and tide conditions on the day and have 24 hours to complete the course - meaning that many will continue to sail in darkness. To reach Hickling and the Lower Bure, the competitors are required to lower their masts no less than four times under three bridges - two at Potter Heigham and one at Acle - before continuing to race, much to the delight of watching crowds!
After last year's challenging conditions (likened by many competitors to 'survival' across Hickling Broad), which led to some of the fastest passage times in the Race's history, the Race Organisers will be hoping for somewhat calmer conditions when the race begins on Saturday morning. For those keen to spectate, popular places are the start at Horning and the Bridges, where plenty of the action takes place. if you can't make it in person to see the race, some of the action can be seen via the webcams on Horning Sailing Club's website www.horning-sailing.club.
You can find out more about the Race at www.3rr.uk
For 2025, the Three Rivers Race will also be the subject of a photographic competition organised by Norfolk Broads Photos - open to all, on the subject of "Spirit of the Event". More information can be found at www.NorfolkBroads.photos
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