University of St Andrews Boat Club makes history at Henley Women’s Regatta 2026

The University of St Andrews Boat Club delivered a historic performance at the 2026 Henley Women’s Regatta (19–21 June), securing the club’s first-ever crew boat finals appearances and victories at the prestigious event on the River Thames.

Henley Women’s Regatta, the premier regatta for women in the United Kingdom, brings together more than 2,000 athletes from across the UK and around the world to compete on one of rowing’s most iconic courses. Against this world-class backdrop, St Andrews achieved a landmark breakthrough with multiple standout performances.

Leading the charge was Hansine Marshall, who delivered an exceptional campaign in the Championship Singles (George Innes Cup), advancing to the final and finishing as runner-up. This result marks a remarkable progression for Marshall, who won the Bernard and Pauline Churcher Cup for Aspirational Single Sculls at the regatta in 2025, stepping up within a year to reach the championship final against the sport’s top domestic and international talent. Her impressive run culminated in a closely fought final against Rachel Aldridge of St Andrew Boat Club.

St Andrews celebrated its first victory of the weekend in the Aspirational Double Scull (Rosie Mayglothling Trophy), where Natacha Searson and Tash Phillips produced a dominant series of races. The pair secured a superb win over RV Skadi (Netherlands) in the final, having earlier defeated Oxford University Boat Club in a highly competitive semi-final.

Further history followed in the Aspirational Academic Coxless Four (Cathy Cruickshank Trophy), where Charlotte Mickelborough, Alexia Shynkevich, Leyla McKinley, and Grace Davison claimed a memorable victory. The crew showed strength and composure throughout the regatta, overcoming Oxford Brookes University in the semi-final before defeating Imperial College in the final to secure the title.

Elsewhere, the in the Aspirational Academic Quadruple Scull (Nina Padwick Trophy) the St Andrews crew competed strongly but did not progress beyond the time trials, while the in the Development Coxed Four (Frank V Harry Cup) St Andrews reached the last 16, gaining valuable experience at this elite level of competition.

These results mark a significant milestone for the University of St Andrews Boat Club, highlighting the programme’s continued progress and growing presence on the national and international stage.

Lewis McCue, Director of Rowing at St Andrews said: “This is a truly landmark moment for the club. To reach and win finals at Henley Women’s Regatta for the first time reflects the commitment, talent, and determination of our athletes and coaches. Hansine’s progression from an aspirational title last year to a championship final this year perfectly captures the trajectory of the programme. These performances set a new standard and provide a strong foundation for future success.”

With two event victories, a championship final appearance, and multiple crews progressing deep into their categories, the University of St Andrews leaves Henley Women’s Regatta 2026 with renewed confidence and an enhanced reputation among the UK’s leading rowing institutions.