Rowing World Championships: The Opening Ceremony

Date: 21 August 2006

This weekend saw Steve attending the opening ceremony of the World Championships at Dorney Lake Eton.

Returning to the UK after a 20 year absence, the dismal weather did not deter huge crowds from giving their full support to the Championships.

Street entertainers, a procession of ancient water crafts and a re-enactment of the first Oxbridge boat race at Henley all proved to be both impressive and entertaining. The Queen's barge was rowed by the winners of the Doggett Coat and Badge Race, an event that has taken place every year since 1715 and is thought to be the longest rowing race in the world.

Speeches were kept to a minimum this year with Dennis Owswald, President of the International Rowing Federation and and IOC member, and President of the Regatta, our own Sir Steve Redgrave, making their voices heard. At least that was the plan. Unfortunately, the sound system was not rising to the occasion and many were left unable to translate the muffled noises.

"Many people commented that it was the best speech I had ever made," laughed Sir Steve. "Others complimented me on my command of the Japanese language! Luckily, the rest of the event was so well planned and entertaining, everyone thought it was still a night to remember especially the fireworks. Everyone went home in good spirits."

Note: Steve will be commentating for the BBC during the semi- finals on Thursday and Friday, and during the finals on Saturday and Sunday.

Jacqueline Alexander

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