Chris Huhne MP has kindly volunteered to start the 2008 Hamble River Raid – a one-hour rowing race involving four-man gigs – at around 2pm on Hamble quay. The Harbour Master will be accompanying the racers but yachtsmen may still need to be extra-vigilant if travelling on the river at that time.

Registration for competitors will be at the Marquee erected on Hamble Quay at 1pm.

Now in its fourth year, the very first “Hamble River Raid” race attracted a great deal of attention from the local media as well as local businesses, river users and the then Mayor of Eastleigh, Mr Bernie Wright. With the specific support of local firm Point-Source and the Bursledon Regatta committee the race has gone from strength to strength.

The 2008 Hamble River Raid promises to be even bigger and better with between eight and twelve teams taking part, plus a ‘Le-Mans’ style start (where competitors have to sprint across the quay and launch their boats) and additional attractions such as a riverside bar and Pig Roast following the prize-giving.

Alongside Chris Huhne will be Mr. Jim Chadwick-Williams announcing the inauguration of the Hamble River Rowing Club.

Course – upstream and back
START: Le Mans Start from Hamble Quay.
* 1st Marker bouy opposite Hamble Quay
* Continue inside of mooring piles until opposite Mercury Marina
* Cross over to the ‘Fighting Top’ at Badnam creek
* Keep the mooring trots to starboard
* Jolly Sailor pontoon, Bursledon
* Round buoy in Bursledon Pool
* Back downstream and beach at the Quay