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Hats Of Henley

The Henley Royal Regatta has been going almost continuously since 1839 and is one of the world’s great sporting events.

Every summer, many of the world’s best rowers and crews come to Henley-on-Thames in England to compete in one of approximately 20 events. Over 5 days, there are several hundred head-to-head crew races (two lanes, two boats, mano a’mano, winner take all) that have been organized in a blind knockout draw.

The juxtaposition of intensely fierce and sweaty international competition, set against a backdrop that is reminiscent of an Edwardian lawn party, puts Henley in a league of its own.

The Henley racecourse runs along a straight section of the Thames River and is surrounded by beautiful English countryside. The Stewards’ Enclosure is at the finish line and their dress code includes a gentle suggestion that the ladies wear hats.

As you can see in this series, the suggestion to wear a hat has been enthusiastically embraced by many spectators.