New chapter in inclusive & sustainable junior rowing

A milestone for the rowing community was reached last month when the inaugural Junior Fours Head (J4H) — backed by Putney High School GDST — took to the Tideway and, for the first time ever, welcomed a junior para-crew into the race.  Around 1,200 young athletes were given the chance to test themselves on one of the UK’s most iconic rowing courses.

This first edition also saw the introduction of a sustainability partnership with Experienz, who will assess the event’s Social Return on Investment — translating volunteer hours, participation, experience and operational choices into measurable social and environmental benefit.

What united those involved — from the school to the Para Rowing Foundation to sustainability partner Experienz — was a shared commitment to access, inclusivity and long-term community impact through sport.

Steven Dowd, Executive Chair of the Global Para Rowing Foundation, said: “I am proud that the very first Junior Fours Head has placed para rowing at its core from day one. Seeing PR3 athletes racing alongside their non-para peers on one of the most iconic rowing stages sends a powerful message about where our sport can go.  For young rowers watching from the bank or online, seeing athletes with different abilities line up together offers a clear vision of what a modern, forward-thinking rowing community can become.”

Putney High School’s ‘sport for all’ philosophy was central to bringing this new event to life. As principal partner, the school extended its commitment beyond its own student body — opening the Tideway to junior crews from across the UK as well as eight teams from Italy.

As Tim Liversage, Chairman of the Junior fours head,  emphasised, the ambition is to build an event that is inclusive of all rowers, supported by institutions committed to access, community benefit and sustainable practice.