The Erne Head of the River Regatta is set to break records this year, with the highest number of competitors ever recorded.

Rowers from across Ireland will converge on the 6-kilometer course along the Erne River, promising a thrilling day of racing in Enniskillen this Saturday.

The event kicks off at 11:00 a.m. with the women’s race, featuring 57 crews including senior teams from University College Dublin (UCD), Trinity Ladies, and University of Galway. Junior women’s crews, including last year’s winners from Enniskillen Royal Boat Club (ERBC), will also compete, with strong entries from St. Michael’s, Castleconnell, and Galway, among others.

At 2:00 p.m., the men’s race will see 81 crews hit the water. Among the senior men’s teams are last year’s champions, Commercial Rowing Club, as well as crews from Queen’s University and University of Galway.

In the junior men’s category, teams from St. Joseph’s and Methodist College Belfast are set to compete, showcasing a high level of young rowing talent.

Best Viewing Spots

Spectators looking for the best views of the action can gather at popular vantage points along the course, including Enniskillen Castle, Stuart’s Carpark, Round O, and the Killyhevlin Hotel.

Local Crews Representing Enniskillen

Enniskillen will be well-represented across both men’s and women’s categories. Key local entries for the women include:

Junior 18A 4- (21)

Junior 16 4X- (30)

Junior 15 4X+ A & B (34, 36)

Junior 16 4+ (44)

Junior 14 4X+ A & B (51, 55)

Junior 18B 4X- (57)

In the men’s category, local entries include:

Junior 18A 4+ (134)

Junior 18B 4X- (144)

Junior 16 4X+ (152)

Junior 16 4+ (159)

Junior 15 4X+ A & B (171, 173)

Junior 14 4X+ A & B (175, 179)

Junior 18B 4X- (181)

With a record-breaking turnout, the 2023 Erne Head of the River promises an unforgettable day of high-energy competition and community spirit.

Derek Holland, ERBC’s Head Coach is delighted with the entry for this year’s event: "It is great to see so many top-class crews coming to Enniskillen for Fours Head of the River.

"This event has gone from strength to strength since we added it to the rowing calendar back in 2021. We hope to have a very successful event with very competitive racing on Saturday."